The number of people with dementia is expected to nearly double by 2054, new data from Dementia Australia has revealed.
Research commissioned by Dementia Australia and undertaken by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare predicts that dementia rates will increase by 93% by 2054.
In 2024, there are more than 421,000 people living with all forms of dementia in Australia. By 2054, without a medical breakthrough, this will grow to 812,500 people, warns Dementia Australia CEO, Maree McCabe AM.
“Dementia is the second leading cause of death of all Australians and the leading cause of death for women. Provisional data is showing that dementia will likely soon be the leading cause of death of all Australians,” Ms McCabe said.
“It is one of the most significant health and social challenges facing Australia and the world. This data will help to inform planning and funding of services and programs around Australia to meet current and future needs.
“No one should have to face dementia alone. That’s why Dementia Australia is here and we’re always here to help you. If you or a loved one have a diagnosis of dementia, or mild cognitive impairment, or you’re concerned about changes to your cognition or that of a loved one, Dementia Australia is here 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.”
The study showed that all Australian states and territories will experience an increase in the number of people diagnosed with dementia over the next 30 years.
Overall, Western Australia is expected witness the highest growth of people living with dementia at 109%, followed by the Northern Territory with 106%, the ACT at 104%, Queensland at 100%, Victoria at 96%, South Australia at 59%, with the lowest growth in the state of Tasmania at 52%.
Dementia Australia Dementia Advocate, Catherine Daskalakis who is 57 and was diagnosed with younger onset dementia 10 months ago, said the figures emphasise the importance of making use of Dementia Australia’s services.
“When I got my diagnosis, the first thing I did was ring the National Dementia Helpline. It was the best decision I ever made,” she said.
“I wanted someone who knew what I was going through. I was able to offload a lot in that initial call. It was the start of receiving support which was invaluable. In those first few months, Dementia Australia offered me emotional help and counselling.
“I’m close to my family. They are always there for me, but I knew I needed more than that. I would strongly recommend people calling the National Dementia Helpline.”
For more details about dementia prevalence data: https://www.dementia.org.au/information/statistics/prevalence-data.
