WALES has an ageing population.

This brings a number of benefits.

Older people are often at the heart of their communities.

Whether it is by volunteering for charity and community work, or by providing child care for their families, older people make an immense contribution.

It benefits society therefore to allow older people to live full and inclusive lives.

However, an ageing population also brings a number of challenges. One of these is dementia.

Dementia has overtaken heart disease as Britain’s biggest killer.

One in three people aged over 65 will develop dementia and the main form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease.

There are at present more than 45,000 people in Wales living with dementia and this figure is projected to increase by nearly a third by 2021.

This terrible condition means families watching their loved ones slipping away until they no longer even recognise them.

Evidence suggests that where people receive an early diagnosis and are helped to access information, support and care, they are often able to adapt well to living with dementia.

We need our GPs to check more closely for signs of dementia because the earlier it is diagnosed, the easier life can be for those living with the condition.

Once dementia has been diagnosed it is important sufferers receive support to enable them to remain in their own homes as far as possible.

The Alzheimer’s Society says that more than one in ten people living with dementia will be forced to go into care homes early due to lack of support.

We need to support the further development of dementia support schemes in the community and the extension of dementia training schemes.

That is why I spoke in the National Assembly recently in favour of an Older People’s Rights Bill to protect and promote the rights of older people so they can live free from abuse, neglect, ageism and discrimination, participate fully in their communities and thrive in old age.

It is completely unacceptable that older people, particularly vulnerable older people, should see their rights diminish as they get older.

They deserve dignity and respect as well as independence and freedom to make decisions about their own lives.

May I take this opportunity of wishing you all a peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year.