Dementia is a leading cause of morbidity and death in the UK. Diagnostic criteria exist for the different aetiologies and subtypes. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type and there is evidence of benefit from acetylcholinesterase inhibitors for some people living with Alzheimer’s disease. Care for people living with dementia in hospital and in the community needs improvement. Non-pharmacological means of managing distress people living with dementia should be prioritized over the use of antipsychotic and sedative medications, and greater focus on symptom management towards the end of life is required.