September 20, 2021 - Dementia Action Week

Barbara Braithwaite, Safe Swallowing Team • September 20, 2021

Dementia Australia tells us that Dementia impacts close to half a million Australians and almost 1.6 million Australians are involved in their care. The number of people living with dementia is set to double in the next 25 years. With so many people impacted now and into the future, it is vital we clear up some of the prevailing misconceptions about dementia.

People living with dementia can live active and fulfilling lives many years after diagnosis. Despite this, they often experience discrimination. In a recent Dementia Australia survey, more than 70 per cent of people believed discrimination towards people with dementia is common or very common.

The concept for Dementia Action Week was developed in consultation with Dementia Advocates, who have a lived experience of dementia. The ‘A little support makes a big difference’ campaign demonstrates that many people living with dementia can continue to live well for many years after their diagnosis. This year, the focus will also be on supporting and celebrating carers of people living with dementia.

Dementia Australia provides information and tips to encourage all Australians to increase their understanding of dementia and learn how they can make a difference to the lives of people around them who are impacted – and to help eliminate discrimination. These include simple and practical tips to:

Give a little support to a person living with dementia.
Give a little support to a carer, friend or family member of a person living with dementia.
Help healthcare professionals make their practice more dementia-friendly.

This awareness-raising campaign will continue to lead the discussion about discrimination, which we know has a big impact on people living with dementia, their families and carers. The good news is, there is a lot can be done to improve their experiences. To find out how you can make a difference please visit the Dementia campaign site.