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Insight for Sunday 24 April 2011

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Texan, Richard Taylor and his wife Linda, on a visit to New Zealand Forty-one thousand people in New Zealand have dementia, and that number is set to double over the next 20 years as a result of an aging population.

The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer's disease - typified by memory loss, a growing inability to care for oneself and ultimately death.

But people with dementia say the stereo-typical image of a helpless, frail pensioner works against them, causing stigma and alienation.

In this award winning programme, Sue Ingram talked to those affected by the disease.

Photo: Richard Taylor, who has Alzheimers, and his wife, Linda.

For more information about dementia visit the Alzheimers New Zealand website.