UPDATE: A shocking new report reveals that dementia has overtaken all other causes of death in Australia, with nearly 17,400 fatalities in 2023 alone. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) confirms that this alarming trend is expected to escalate, projecting that over one million Australians will be living with dementia by 2065.
The AIHW’s findings highlight that dementia is now the leading cause of death among women and the second leading cause for men, trailing only coronary heart disease. Currently, approximately 425,000 Australians are diagnosed with dementia, equating to about 16 per 1,000 individuals. As Australia’s population ages, this number is predicted to increase significantly.
Tanya Buchanan, Chief Executive of Dementia Australia, stressed the urgent need for action. “With dementia expected to exceed one million by 2065, we simply cannot afford to wait for decisive action,” she stated. Buchanan called on all levels of government to implement a national strategy aimed at raising awareness and improving brain health across all ages.
In a poignant reflection, Gina Callan, diagnosed with younger onset dementia at age 58, shared her harrowing experience. “My world shifted overnight,” she said, emphasizing the emotional toll and the need for community support. Callan’s journey underscores the reality that as dementia progresses, daily living becomes increasingly challenging, requiring substantial care and support.
The AIHW report also reveals a concerning trend of social isolation among those affected. Buchanan pointed out that many individuals with dementia see friends and family drift away post-diagnosis. This week’s theme for Dementia Action Week, “nobody can do it alone,” aims to encourage connections and support for impacted individuals.
As part of the initiative, News.com.au and The Australian are launching a campaign called Think Again. This effort seeks to change the narrative around dementia, advocating for increased support and awareness about prevention.
Dementia is characterized by a decline in cognitive functions, impacting memory, speech, and emotional control. While Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, dementia can affect individuals as young as 30, leading to what is termed younger onset dementia.
There are currently no cures for dementia, although many risk factors can be managed. The AIHW estimates that 102,000 informal primary caregivers were providing support to dementia patients last year, highlighting the vast impact on families and communities.
The financial burden of dementia care is staggering, with health and aged care spending reaching $3.7 billion in 2020-21. As dementia remains the leading cause of hospital admissions, it is crucial that immediate action is taken to combat this growing crisis.
What’s Next: As the situation develops, watch for government responses to the AIHW’s findings, as calls for comprehensive strategies to address dementia become increasingly urgent. The conversation around brain health and dementia awareness is set to expand, making this a critical time for action and support.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to follow this vital issue impacting thousands of Australians.
