While most people are aware of the importance of having dementia diagnosed as early as possible, almost one in four admit that they would delay seeking help if they had concerns about the disease, a new survey has revealed.

Around 4,000 people develop dementia in Ireland every year - that is an average of 11 per day. Dementia is an umbrella term to describe a set of symptoms that occur when brain cells stop working properly. There are many different types, the most common of which is Alzheimer's disease.

Common symptoms may include memory loss, changes in mood and behaviour, and problems with thinking, language, problem-solving and carrying out everyday tasks.

The number of people with dementia in Ireland is expected to jump from the current figure of 55,000, to 113,000 by 2036.

This latest survey of over 1,000 adults follows a similar survey carried out in 2016. It shows that while 78% of people are aware of the importance of an early diagnosis in order to allow patients to access appropriate supports and services, 24% would delay seeking help if they had concerns.

However, the survey also shows that there is increased awareness of the condition. Some 33% of people said they know a lot about the disease, compared to 24% in 2016, while 52% said they are aware of things they can do to reduce their risk of developing dementia, compared to 46% in 2016.

"This survey points to clear progress in relation to people's understanding of dementia since the last time a survey was undertaken in 2016, yet we can't be complacent.

"Fear and stigma still surround dementia, resulting in unnecessary loneliness and isolation for people living with the condition, and for their families. It can also result in delays in seeking help and diagnosis. This means that people may miss out on appropriate treatment, services and support as a result," commented consultant psychiatrist, Prof Brian Lawlor.

Prof Lawlor is chairperson of the ‘Dementia: Understand Together' campaign, which released the results of this survey ahead of World Alzheimer Month in September.

"It is positive to see an increase in the number of people who are aware that there are things they can do to potentially reduce their risk of dementia. We all need to take a more active role in managing our brain health, by eating healthy, not smoking, avoiding excess alcohol, getting our blood pressure checked and treated, and by being active physically, mentally and socially," he said.

The survey also revealed that 55% of people would not have a problem with their friends of family knowing that they were showing signs of dementia. A further 56% said they would not feel embarrassed or ashamed about such a diagnosis.

Meanwhile, the survey also noted that 59% of people who saw the ‘Dementia: Understand Together' TV campaign said that they were impacted in some way.

This figure was welcomed by Mary Manning, manager of the National Dementia Office.

"We are so heartened that more than half of respondents who saw the ads said that they were impacted as a result of the personal stories featured. Many feel greater empathy towards people with dementia and others have made a conscious decision to get in touch with, or visit, a friend or family member living with dementia, or who is caring for a loved one with dementia," she noted.

She urged people to offer support to family members, friends or neighbours who may be affected.

"I would encourage people to stay in touch, drop by for a chat, or ask how you can help. Don't underestimate the difference that your continued friendship and emotional support can make. I'd like to take this opportunity to say thank you to the families involved in the TV ads that are inspiring people to take action to support people with dementia and their families in their communities," Ms Manning said.

Also commenting on the survey results, the CEO of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland, Pat McLoughlin, pointed out that traditionally, ‘dementia is an issue that has been hidden away'.

"People in Ireland can sometimes still feel afraid or embarrassed about talking to people they know who have dementia. The ‘Dementia: Understand Together' campaign has helped to provide a platform to bring the subject of dementia into the public domain, and allowed awareness building and perception changing of dementia to take place," he said.

He insisted that we ‘need to be hearing and seeing more people with dementia and their families'.

"They need to be more included in our society. There is no cure for dementia, however, many people who have it can do well and live well in their community and should be supported to do this. We want to create a society that is fully inclusive of people with dementia and their families and carers," Mr McLoughlin added.

The ‘Dementia: Understand Together' campaign is led by the HSE in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of Ireland and Genio. For more information, click here