Dementia Australia, as the peak body, welcomes the Federal Government’s announcement of $25 million for dementia, ageing and aged care research that will look at new approaches to extend older Australians’ healthy years of life including reducing the risk of dementia.
Dementia Australia Executive Director of Services Leanne Emerson said this is now more urgent than ever with updated Causes of Death 2022 data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics this week confirming that dementia remains the leading cause of death of women and the second leading cause of death of all Australians.
According to the data, rate difference between ischaemic heart diseases and dementia continues to narrow – in 2017 the mortality rate of ischaemic heart disease was approximately 38 per cent higher than deaths due to dementia which in 2021 reduced to 9 per cent higher.
“There are up to 487,500 Australians living with dementia in 2022. Without a medical breakthrough, the number of people with dementia is expected to increase to almost 1.1 million by 2058,” Ms Emerson said.
“Dementia is the chronic disease of the 21st century and this updated data reinforces the need for major investment in dementia research, services and support, as well as the importance of continuing to educate the community and raise awareness about dementia.
“If this data trend continues, it is likely that dementia will devastatingly become the leading cause of death of all Australians.
“Dementia is first and foremost a health issue and must be a health and ageing policy priority for all governments, health services and the aged care sector.
“This investment from the Federal Government is so important in prioritising the health of older Australians and people living with dementia.”
A total of 18 grants, provided through the Medical Research Future Fund, will go to Australia’s researchers and look at new approaches that lead to better outcomes for older people.
“Innovation in dementia research is more crucial than ever. We look forward to working with the Federal Government to continue the focus on dementia and ensure everyone receives the care they deserve.”
Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated half a million Australians living with dementia, and the almost 1.6 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.
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