Record Number of Dementia Diagnoses on the NHS as Innovative Home Monitoring Technology Launches
The NHS has reached a major milestone, with a record 506,549 people now diagnosed with dementia, underscoring its commitment to tackling the UK’s leading cause of death. This landmark achievement reflects growing public awareness, improved access to testing, and the NHS’s focus on early dementia diagnosis, personalised care, and community-based support as part of its 10-Year Health Plan.
The latest figures show a rise from 490,163 diagnoses at this time last year — proof that more people are coming forward for assessment and receiving vital care at an earlier stage.
Pioneering Dementia Technology: MinderCare
As part of its strategy to deliver care closer to home, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust has launched MinderCare, an innovative at-home monitoring service that helps people living with dementia remain safe and independent for longer.
The system uses discreet smart sensors placed on everyday household items — from bed mattresses and kitchen appliances to doorways — enabling clinical teams to track daily routines, responses to medication, and early warning signs of infection or deterioration. Backed by over a decade of research with the UK Dementia Research Institute and funded by the NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, MinderCare is already making a meaningful impact.
Families using the service have praised the technology for offering peace of mind, enabling earlier interventions, reducing avoidable hospital admissions, and improving quality of life for both patients and carers.
Voices from the NHS
NHS England’s National Clinical Director for Dementia, Dr Jeremy Isaacs, said:
“Thanks to patients and families coming forward, and the hard work of NHS staff, we have now reached a record of more than half a million people diagnosed with dementia, many of whom are supported to live well in their own homes.
“MinderCare is a fantastic example of the NHS trialling cutting-edge technology to help people stay safe and independent for longer.
“As families gather this bank holiday, it’s also an important reminder to look out for the signs of dementia. Forgetfulness, difficulty planning, or word-finding problems may be more noticeable during extended time together. If you’re worried about a loved one, please seek support — an early diagnosis can make a life-changing difference.”
Delivering Better Dementia Care Nationally
Over the past year, the NHS has provided:
- 330,460 care plans or reviews
- 114,447 medication reviews
These interventions have helped people manage their condition more effectively and access tailored support.
Looking Ahead
With dementia now the UK’s leading cause of death, the combination of record diagnostic rates and pioneering innovations like MinderCare represents a significant step forward in dementia care. The NHS is urging anyone concerned about memory loss or other early symptoms to seek advice and testing, as early intervention leads to better outcomes.
