Dementia Australia acknowledges the Tasmanian State Government for its commitment of $850,000 to develop and implement a new strategy for the prevention of elder abuse.
Dementia Australia CEO, Ms Maree McCabe commends Tasmania’s state government for funding the new strategy as part of its 2019-20 budget.
“Unfortunately older people living with dementia can be more susceptible to abuse, especially financial abuse as their dementia progresses and cognitive abilities decline,” Ms McCabe said.
“Sadly, financial abuse of older people living with dementia is more commonly committed by those closest to the victim, including family and friends authorised to manage the individual’s finances.
“It is a complex issue and I look forward to working with the Tasmanian Government on the development of the strategy to protect vulnerable, older Tasmanians, including those living with dementia.”
Dementia Australia also acknowledges the Tasmanian Government’s allocation of an additional $27.5 million across its budget and forward estimates to the National Disability Insurance Scheme aimed at supporting people with a disability who are not eligible for NDIS.
“It is important that dementia is considered when funding for disabilities, carers, health and aged care is being distributed,” Ms McCabe said.
“Dementia is the chronic disease of the 21st century.
There are 11,270 people living with dementia in Tasmania. Without a medical breakthrough, the number of people living with dementia is expected to increase to an estimated 14,189 people by 2028 and 16,744 people by 2058.
“Dementia impacts many Tasmanians and further action is needed to support people living with dementia now.”
Dementia is the second leading cause of death of Australians and the leading cause of death of women in Australia
Currently an estimated 250 people are joining the population with dementia each day .
For all Tasmanians local support and information is available for people of all ages, living with all forms of dementia, and their families and carers at www.dementia.org.au or via the National Dementia Helpline by free-calling 1800 100 500.
Dementia Australia is the national peak body and charity for people, of all ages, living with all forms of dementia, their families and carers. It provides advocacy, support services, education and information. An estimated 447,000 people have dementia in Australia. This number is projected to reach almost 1.1 million by 2058. Dementia Australia is the new voice of Alzheimer’s Australia.
Dementia Australia’s services are supported by the Australian Government.
National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 Interpreter service available (The National Dementia Helpline is an Australian Government Initiative) Dementia is a National Health Priority Area www.dementia.org.au
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