Australia’s Dementia Crisis: Numbers Set to Double by 2065
Imagine a future where over a million Australians battle dementia—that’s the stark warning from a new government report. Released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the updated Dementia in Australia report predicts a sharp rise in cases, jumping from around 425,000 people in 2024 to a whopping 1.1 million by 2065. This surge highlights the growing challenge of dementia in Australia and why we need better awareness and support now.
Women bear the brunt of this condition more than men. Right now, about 266,000 women and 159,000 men live with dementia. By 2065, those figures could climb to 662,000 women and 390,000 men. It’s a reminder that dementia affects families across the board, hitting older Australians hardest.
Tragically, dementia topped the list as Australia’s leading cause of death in 2023, claiming around 17,400 lives—10,900 women and 6,500 men. The report covers various types, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and unspecified forms. These brain-damaging conditions steal memories and independence, making everyday life a struggle.
Tanya Buchanan, CEO of Dementia Australia, shared her thoughts ahead of Dementia Action Week (September 15-21). "This report shows the huge toll dementia takes on Australian families," she said. It spotlights the unsung heroes: carers. In 2022, about 42% of primary carers for dementia patients gave at least 60 hours of support each week. Their dedication keeps loved ones going, but it often comes at a personal cost.
So, what exactly is dementia? It’s not one disease but an umbrella term for symptoms that mess with your brain—think memory loss, trouble thinking, poor judgment, or changes in behavior. These issues get severe enough to disrupt daily routines. Alzheimer’s disease causes most cases, damaging brain cells over time. You might notice someone forgetting words, getting lost in familiar places, or struggling with simple tasks like dressing. Personality shifts or balance problems can pop up too.
Don’t confuse it with normal aging—dementia is a real health issue. It involves a drop in mental skills from what someone could do before, affecting at least two areas like memory, reasoning, language, coordination, mood, or behavior. About 5-8% of people over 65 have some form of dementia, and that rate doubles every five years after that. By age 85 and up, nearly half could be affected.
As Australia gears up for Dementia Action Week, this report calls for action. From early detection to carer support, tackling dementia in Australia means building a stronger safety net for the future. Stay informed and talk about it—early awareness can make a big difference.
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