Far more women in Ireland are developing dementia than men and more research needs to be carried out to understand why, the Alzheimer's Society of Ireland (ASI) has said.

According to the latest figures available, over 30,000 Irish women are currently living with dementia compared to just over 17,000 men.

Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a range of conditions which cause changes and damage to the brain. This can result in problems such as chronic memory loss, a loss in intellectual function, language deterioration and changes in personality. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia.

"The prevalence figures in Ireland are startling, with much higher rates of dementia among women. We desperately need further research and increased analysis on the gendered nature of dementia so we can plan targeted campaigns for women to increase their understanding of risk, assessment and available resources," commented ASI chief executive, Gerry Martin.

He also pointed out that ‘far more' Irish women provide care to people with dementia than men and these carers are in ‘desperate need of more interventions and supports, both financial and psychosocial'.

Almost two in three people with dementia in Ireland today live at home and most are cared for by family members. There are an estimated 50,000 dementia family carers in this country.

However, the number of people with dementia is projected to increase from the current 48,000 to over 68,000 by 2021 and 132,000 by 2041. This will lead to much greater demands on resources and carers.

"While age is certainly a major risk factor, investment in research is imperative to fully understand this significant public health issue. Major investments in heart disease and cancer research in recent years have helped bring down death rates for these conditions and have had a real impact. We need to do the same for dementia," noted Mr Martin.

He insisted that only through research can we ‘find ways to treat and prevent dementia' and transform the lives of those affected.

He made his comments following the publication of a study by Alzheimer's Research UK, which found that Alzheimer's disease has become the leading cause of death among UK women, and like here, women are far more likely than men to become dementia carers, which can lead to major stress and job loss.

If you would like more information on dementia and Alzheimer's including, caring for someone affected, the ASI runs a national helpline Monday to Friday, from 10am to 5pm, and Saturday, from 10am to 4pm. Call 1800 341 341.

See also our Alzheimer's Clinic, which was developed in association with the ASI, here