Dementia support demand rises

AS the number of Australians living with dementia continues to rise, so does the amount of people reaching out for care and support.

By the end of the month, the number of calls to the National Dementia Helpline is expected to have increased by almost 20 per cent compared to the previous financial year.

Dementia advocate Jo-Anne’s dad, sister and then mum were all diagnosed with the disease.

“It was like a triple whammy,” she said.

“My sister, Nancy was 61 and so healthy – she exercised, did meditation and actively used her mind every day. She was so aware of looking after herself and didn’t possess any of the risk factors, so it was an immense shock.

“When I really needed to speak to somebody, an experienced dementia counsellor was my lifeline.”

The National Dementia Helpline is available to provide Australians living with dementia, their families and carers with emotional support and guidance, information on navigating services and programs and information and advice.

The free and confidential service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and can also connect people to Dementia Australia and community support services and programs and discuss government support.

Dementia Australia chief executive officer Tanya Buchanan said enquires to the helplines included people seeking access to programs and some needed more immediate or specialised assistance.

“The increase shows Australians impacted by dementia are more and more in need of critical support and services.

“With an estimated 433,300 Australians living with dementia in 2025, and with this number expected to increase to an estimated 812,500 by 2054 without a significant intervention, the need for care and support will continue to grow.”

Dementia Australia is encouraging people to donate to its 2025 Tax Appeal, to enable them to keep up with the increasing demand for support. Head to donate.dementia.org.au/tax-appeal

If this story has promoted any questions or concerns, phone the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 or visit dementia.org.au