Dementia Australia is proud to launch The Dementia Guide, a comprehensive resource to support people living with dementia, their families and carers.
Updated figures show that in 2020 the number of Australians estimated to be living with dementia has increased to 459,000. Without a medical breakthrough the number of Australians with dementia is expected to be more than one million by 2058.
As the number of people living with dementia in Australia increases, so too does the number of people who provide support. Today, almost 1.6 million people are estimated to be involved in the care of someone living with dementia.
Released today, The Dementia Guide is relevant for people of all ages living with all forms of dementia and those impacted by dementia. The Guide can assist everyone to learn about dementia, treatments, and available support and services.
Bobby Redman, who lives with dementia and is a member of the Dementia Australia Advisory Committee, said the guide is a great resource for anyone.
"This guide is a great starting point for anyone living with or caring for someone with dementia," Ms Redman said.
"It is especially useful for the newly diagnosed to help to gain an understanding of how to continue to lead a productive life."
Phil Hazell, the Chair of the Dementia Australia Advisory Committee, said if The Dementia Guide had been around when he was diagnosed, it would have helped him better understand the disease and its impacts.
"I so wish I had this resource when I was diagnosed with younger onset dementia. It makes it easy to understand my dementia and live well."
Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe said with the prevalence of dementia growing every year, there will be increased demand for understanding this disease and what we all can do to support people living with dementia.
"If you have been diagnosed with dementia, there are many ways you can plan for your future, including how to access services to support you, and to live well for as long as possible," Ms McCabe said.
"This guide can assist in finding the right path and it may also be useful for friends, families and carers of people living with dementia, as it contains information about the impact dementia may have on a person, the support and services they may need, and the support and services available to anyone taking on a caring role."
The Dementia Guide is available to download for free online, or for readers to request a printed copy, at dementia.org.au/resources/the-dementia-guide.
This is the second edition of the Dementia Guide, initially produced and distributed in 2016 by Alzheimer's Australia Vic. It has been updated by Dementia Australia in response to the positive feedback and high demand for the first edition.
The first edition was informed by the original concept of The Dementia Guide, produced by Alzheimer's Society UK. It was also developed in close consultation with an advisory panel, which comprised of health, social and aged care professionals, people living with dementia and their families. This edition was reviewed to further improve accessibility and relevancy for people impacted by dementia.
This second and national edition is proudly supported by Lifeview.
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 459,000 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
