Ruth Langsford on Caring for Her Mother with Alzheimer's

Strategic Insights -

Ruth Langsford, TV presenter, has been dealing with a challenging few years, including her parents' struggles with Alzheimer's disease. Her mum, Joan, lives in a care home, and Ruth has taken on the role of her main carer. Despite the difficulties, Ruth focuses on caring for her mum with love and support, emphasizing the importance of unpaid carers getting the most out of Alexa-enabled devices.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ruth Langsford's mum, Joan, lives in a care home due to Alzheimer's, and Ruth is her main carer.
  • Ruth has a personal understanding of Alzheimer's, having experienced her father's struggles with the disease and now caring for her mother.
  • According to research by Dementia Carers Count, 71% of unpaid carers lack adequate support, with over a third (36%) describing their role as a 24/7 responsibility.
  • Ruth is supporting a collaboration between Dementia Carers Count and Amazon to help unpaid carers use Alexa-enabled devices to manage daily routines and feel more supported.
  • Ruth has a 23-year-old son, Jack, and admits that unpaid carers often face significant challenges, including feeling lonely and accountable.
  • Ruth has both parents with Alzheimer's, which raises her concerns about potentially developing the disease; however, she chooses not to get tested for it.
  • Ruth is keeping busy and enjoying her work, declaring she has no intention of slowing down or retiring at 65.

Statistics:

  • 71% of unpaid carers lack adequate support (Dementia Carers Count research).
  • 36% of unpaid carers describe their role as a 24/7 responsibility (Dementia Carers Count research).
  • Ruth's father had Alzheimer's for 13 years before passing away.

Sources:

  • Dementia Carers Count