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The Welsh Government is seeking the public’s views to shape the future of support for people with dementia and their families.

A new ten-year Dementia Strategy was published earlier this month, following on from Wales’ first Dementia Action Plan, which sought to improve services and remove stigma around the condition.

The consultation has been launched as the Welsh Government seeks to further refine its strategy.

It focuses on seven key areas, including reducing the risk of and preventing dementia; raising awareness and understanding of dementia, and improving diagnosis, treatment and care.

It also focuses on supporting unpaid carers, developing the workforce, and advancing research and innovation, as well as strengthening governance and accountability.

The strategy highlights that nearly half of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes such as staying physically active, maintaining social connections, and managing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.

It also addresses the specific needs of Welsh speakers, British Sign Language users, and people from diverse communities, to ensure care is culturally sensitive and linguistically appropriate.

Sarah Murphy, the Welsh Government’s minister for mental health and wellbeing, said: “We want Wales to be a nation where people living with dementia are respected, supported and empowered to live independently and with dignity in their communities.

“This consultation is an important step in developing a strategy which truly reflects what matters to people affected by dementia.”

Ms Murphy added: “I encourage everyone with an interest to share their views and help us create a Wales that is free from stigma, where everyone understands dementia and contributes to a compassionate, inclusive society.”

Gemma Roberts, the Alzheimer’s Society’s national influencing manager for Wales, said: “Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer, but this consultation could be a turning point for Wales.

“Alzheimer’s Society is proud to have worked with the Welsh Government on the priorities for this consultation which, if implemented, have the potential to transform the lives of everyone affected by dementia in Wales.

“This consultation is a huge step forward and we are looking forward to continuing to work with Welsh Government to develop the detail, and ensure the strategy delivers real change over the next ten years.”