New data shows dementia to almost double over 30 years

New data reveals the number of people living with dementia is expected to nearly double by 2054.

Research by Dementia Australia revealed that dementia rates will increase by 93 per cent by 2054.

Chief of Dementia Australia Maree McCabe said with dementia growing every year, an increase in support will be needed.

"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 the planning and funding of services and programs around Australia to meet current and future needs."

More than 400,000 Australians live with dementia, with 70 per cent of aged-care residents living with moderate to severe cognitive impairments, including dementia.

That number is estimated to jump to 900,000 in the next 25 years, with the recent Intergenerational Report estimating Australia's older population to triple.

The research, however, estimates 812,500 by 2054 if there is no medical breakthrough.

All Australian states and territories will experience an increase in the number of people diagnosed with dementia over the next 30 years.

Western Australia will witness the highest growth of people living with dementia at 109 per cent, followed by the Northern Territory at 106 per cent, the ACT at 104 per cent, Queensland at 100 per cent, Victoria at 96 per cent, NSW at 79% and South Australia at 59 per cent.

The lowest growth is estimated to be in Tasmania at 52 per cent.

Advocate Catherine Daskalakis said the figures emphasised the importance of making use of Dementia Australia’s services.

“When I got my diagnosis [10 months ago], the first thing I did was ring the National Dementia Helpline," she said.

"It was the best decision I ever made. 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 on 1800 100 500."

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