It’s estimated that 850,000 are living with Dementia in the UK. This is set to DOUBLE in the next 30 years. There could be up to a further 40% with the disease as diagnosis remains disappointingly low.
Dementia starts affecting us from our late 40’s onwards. Initially the symptoms are mild and don’t affect our quality of life too much. Gradually the disease becomes more debilitating, especially if it goes undiagnosed for too long. As there is no cure for Dementia, it will eventually kill you.
When you consider that the average age of golf members is 54, with 71% being aged 45+, it’s easy to see why the golf industry should be concerned about the disproportionate impact Dementia will have on golf membership and participation.
Some might view this as a terminal risk for golf. However, I view it as the single biggest opportunity to grow the game we’ve had in years. It needs to be grasped with both hands.
An ageing population with more of our elderly citizens suffering with chronic disease, combined with health and care services at breaking point means we face a massive social time bomb.
Read my article tomorrow on how golf can help improve the lives of people living with Dementia.
