The World Alzheimer’s Report 2025, released yesterday during Dementia Action Week, highlights the importance of rehabilitation for people living with dementia.
The Report, titled ‘Reimagining life with dementia – the power of rehabilitation’ was released by Alzheimer’s Disease International in the lead-up to World Alzheimer’s Day on Sunday 21 September.
Dementia Australia Dementia Advocates John Quinn and Glenys Petrie, who contributed an article to the Report, said they had developed rehabilitation strategies to help John remain independent as long as possible.
“These strategies focused on me as a person – connecting with others, participating in things that I found meaningful, having autonomy, and maintaining wellness through a healthy diet. I did not want to be just another statistic. We were hopeful that these approaches would slow down the progression of my condition. We had nothing to lose,” John wrote in the article, “Dementia rehabilitation requires ‘thinking outside the box’”.
Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said Report clearly demonstrates how people diagnosed with dementia are missing out on important post diagnostic services they need to live well.
“This is just one of the reasons Dementia Australia is pushing for the federal government to provide funding for dementia navigators to help people access the services they need to live well. When it comes to dementia, nobody can do it alone,” Professor Buchanan said.
“The second thing this report demonstrates is the profound lack of understanding of dementia and the important role rehabilitation play in improving the lives of people living with dementia their families and carers. It is another example of why we need to improve Australians understanding of dementia and brain health.”
Visit dementia.org.au/dementiaactionweek to access a range of resources and information to support Australians to reconnect with someone impacted by dementia.
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Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated 433,300 Australians living with dementia, and the estimated 1.7 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.
For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au
Media contacts: David Gear, [email protected], 0435 515 221
When talking or writing about dementia please refer to Dementia-Friendly Language Guidelines.
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If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.