Alzheimer’s disease and dementia deaths across Grampian have risen to the highest level since records began more than 20 years ago.
New figures released today by the National Records of Scotland show there were a record high of 654 deaths caused by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias within the NHS Grampian area last year.
The number reflects a 220% rise compared with those recorded in 2000 when records began.
In Aberdeenshire, deaths are also at a record high after 301 occurred last year compared to only 75 in 2000.
Across Scotland last year, 6,612 deaths were registered with these conditions as the underlying cause – the highest since records began and 121 more than in 2023.
The mortality rate, 122 per 100,000 people, has almost doubled over the last two decades.
Scottish Conservative MSP for Aberdeenshire West, Alexander Burnett, has been campaigning for dementia care to return to his constituency following the closure of the Scolty Ward at Glen O’Dee Hospital in Banchory.
On the figures, he said: “Dementia is one of Scotland’s biggest killers and we are now seeing a crisis unfolding in Grampian where deaths have reached a record high.
“These shocking figures show the devastating scale at which it is claiming lives across the North East and the rest of Scotland.
“Across my constituency, the closure and centralisation of inpatient dementia treatment in Deeside has been incredibly damaging to patients and their families.
“Despite dementia being Scotland’s biggest long-term health challenge, patients in Aberdeenshire continue to face a postcode lottery for care and a diagnosis.
“Dementia patients in rural areas have been abandoned by the Scottish Government.
“That is why there needs to be an early diagnosis, preventative social care and community-based support no matter where you live in Scotland.”
