New figures show dementia prevalence to almost double over 30 years

Dementia Australia has released new data that shows the number of people with dementia is expected to nearly double by 2054.

Research commissioned by Dementia Australia and undertaken by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reveals that dementia prevalence* will increase by 93 per cent by 2054. In 2024, there are more than 421,000 people living with all forms of dementia in Australia. By 2054, without a medical breakthrough, this will grow to 812,500 people.

Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM said with the prevalence of dementia growing every year, there will be increased demand for support services for people living with dementia, their families and carers.  

“Dementia is the second leading cause of death of all Australians and the leading cause of death for women. 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 planning and funding of services and programs around Australia to meet current and future needs.

“No one should have to face dementia alone. That’s why Dementia Australia is here and we’re always here to assist you. If you or a loved one have a diagnosis of dementia, or mild cognitive impairment, or you’re concerned about changes to your cognition or that of a loved one, Dementia Australia is here 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.”

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

Overall, Western Australia will witness the highest growth of people living with dementia at 109 per cent, followed by the Northern Territory with 106 per cent, the Australian Capital Territory at 104 per cent, Queensland at 100 per cent, Victoria at 96 per cent, South Australia at 59 per cent, with the lowest growth in the state of Tasmania at 52 per cent.

Dementia Australia Dementia Advocate Catherine Daskalakis who is 57 and was diagnosed with younger onset dementia ten months ago, said the figures emphasise the importance of making use of Dementia Australia’s services.

“When I got my diagnosis, the first thing I did was ring the National Dementia Helpline. 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,” Ms Daskalakis explained.

“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.” 

For more details about dementia prevalence data local to your Federal, State and Territory electoral divisions as well as for Local Government Areas go here: dementia.org.au/about-dementia/dementia-facts-and-figures

Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated more than 421,000 Australians living with dementia, and the more than 1.6 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. 

Media contacts: Sally Grandy, Senior Media and Communications Advisor, 0401 566710 or Sally.Grandy@dementia.org.au | Gabrielle Prabhu, Media & Communications Manager, 0447 253 583 or Gabrielle.Prabhu@dementia.org.au   
When talking or writing about dementia please refer to Dementia-Friendly Language Guidelines.

Note to Editors:

We request, where possible, details for the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 appear alongside news stories about dementia, as these stories often prompt questions or concerns: 

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. 

*This wording was updated post-release on 22 February 2024