Estimating the impact of dementia

Professor Laurie Brown from the National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling (NATSEM)

By Sian Helmore

With the ageing population it is estimated that the number of Australians with dementia will increase drastically and have a large impact on families.

Recent studies by the National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling (NATSEM) have found that there could be around 1 million Australians with dementia by 2050.

Professor Laurie Brown from NATSEM says that dementia is not a stand alone condition and that there are various risk factors that can play a role.

“Lots of people don’t realise things like midlife obesity will effect your likelihood of getting dementia,” said Professor Brown. “So if you’re significantly overweight in your 40’s or 50’s you’re twice as likely to get dementia.”

It has been found that dementia is a brain condition that is not a natural part of ageing, however it should not be stigmatised.

Michelle Curley from Alzheimer’s Australia says their mission is to support those with dementia and their families.

They have programs that cater to various types and stages of dementia, including activities in the community. Those who come to them newly diagnosed have a six week Living with Memory Loss course.

“I think that’s a really good entry point in to the service from that group then a support group is formed for people with dementia so they meet monthly. And the carers if they like they can link in to the carers support groups that we run here as well,” Ms Curley said.

This support is vital to help those with dementia and their families know that they are not alone and that they should not be afraid to ask for help.