Dementia Action Week is shining a light on one important truth: dementia is not a normal part of ageing.

“Almost half a million Australians live with dementia today,” says Fiona Simpson, State Manager for Dementia Australia. “That number is projected to rise to one million by 2065.”

Dementia: Australia’s Leading Cause of Death

The statistics are sobering. Dementia has now overtaken heart disease as the leading cause of death in Australia.

“For a long time, it’s been the leading cause of death for women,” Fiona explains. “Now, it’s the leading cause overall.”

This shift is a wake-up call for all Australians to learn more and take steps to lower their risk.

Dementia Can Affect Younger People Too

Many assume dementia only affects older people. But Fiona says otherwise: “About 29,000 Australians under the age of 65 are living with young onset dementia.”

Research shows dementia risk increases with age, but lifestyle factors also play a role. This means it’s vital for people of all ages to understand their risk and take action.

Risk Factors You Can Change

One in four Australians wrongly believe there’s nothing they can do to reduce dementia risk. Fiona stresses that’s not true.

“There are six key modifiable risk factors,” she explains.
They include:

  • Obesity
  • Physical inactivity
  • High blood sugar
  • High blood pressure in midlife
  • Smoking
  • Impaired kidney function

“The earlier you make lifestyle changes, the better,” Fiona says. “But it’s never too late to reduce your risk.”

Early Warning Signs of Dementia

Spotting dementia early can make a big difference. Fiona outlines some common signs:

  • Frequent memory loss, such as forgetting familiar names
  • Difficulty completing familiar tasks like cooking or driving
  • Getting lost in the middle of everyday routines
  • Personality or behaviour changes, such as confusion or disinhibition

“If you notice these changes, speak to your doctor or contact Dementia Australia for support,” Fiona advises.

Support is Available

Dementia Australia provides a wide range of resources and services. These include:

  • Individualised support for understanding diagnosis and next steps
  • Counselling for people with dementia and their carers
  • Education and information sessions

Fiona encourages anyone with concerns to call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, available 24/7. “Support is out there,” Fiona says. “You don’t have to face dementia alone.”

Listen to Fiona’s full conversation with Tim on Table Talk below.