大象传媒

The Alzheimer's Society says people with dementia, and their families, typically face costs equivalent to more than 拢20,000 a year.

It says the money includes payments for help such as washing and dressing, and unpaid care from family and friends.

Pearl Mcreadie, who looks after her husband John, spoke to Rachel Burden about the financial pressures she's under:

"I worked full-time but two years ago I had to leave my employment and all we live on now is John's pension. I get 拢62 carers allowance a week and we get 拢61 pension credit."

This clip is from 5 live Breakfast, 10 September 2014.