GPs without basic dementia training

Dementia is a growing problem in the UK because of the ageing population but GPs are increasingly going without adequate training to deal with the condition.

This is the finding of a study carried out by the Alzheimer's Society, which revealed that only 37 per cent of GPs feel that they have basic dementia training.

It was also revealed that 71 per cent of GPs want to learn more about the condition online, prompting the charity and BMJ Learning to launch a new online learning programme.

The tool includes information on early diagnosis and non-drug treatments for behaviour symptoms. These include hobbies, social interaction and response to music.

Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of Alzheimer's Society, said: "We need to support GPs as much as possible as they have a vital role to play in diagnosing and supporting people with the condition, which is why we are very excited to launch this online learning tool."

Find out about dementia care and support services at Barchester care homes.