As Dementia Action Week 2025 unfolds from September 15-21, Dementia Australia has partnered with News Corp to challenge prevalent misconceptions surrounding dementia in Australia. The organizations are urging the public to reconsider the belief that dementia is a normal part of aging. This call to action comes in light of new findings from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), which reveal that dementia has become the leading cause of death for Australians.
The latest AIHW report indicates that without significant intervention, the number of Australians living with dementia could surpass 1 million by the year 2065. Currently, approximately 433,000 Australians are diagnosed with dementia, including 29,000 individuals under the age of 65. Additionally, an estimated 1.7 million people are involved in caring for these individuals.
Health Risks and Misconceptions
Professor Tanya Buchanan, CEO of Dementia Australia, highlighted the urgency of these statistics. She noted that while the figures are concerning, many people mistakenly believe they cannot influence their risk of developing dementia. “More than a quarter of Australians, or 28 percent, incorrectly believe there is nothing they can do to reduce the risk of dementia,” Professor Buchanan stated.
The AIHW report, updated just last week, identified that 43 percent of the dementia burden in Australia can be traced to six modifiable risk factors. These factors include being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, high blood sugar, high blood pressure during midlife, smoking, and impaired kidney function. Professor Buchanan emphasized that individuals can take proactive steps to mitigate these risks.
Taking Action Against Dementia
In response to these findings, Dementia Australia is encouraging the public to recognize the importance of lifestyle changes. Simple yet effective actions, such as maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing blood pressure, can significantly reduce the risk of developing dementia. The organization is committed to providing resources and support to help Australians make informed decisions regarding their health.
As Dementia Action Week progresses, the collaboration between Dementia Australia and News Corp aims to raise awareness and foster discussions about dementia, its impact on individuals and families, and the changes that can be made to improve health outcomes. The message is clear: dementia is not an inevitable part of aging, and there are actionable steps that can be taken to reduce risk and promote healthy aging.
