In the state electorates of Bayswater, Mitcham, Evelyn, Monbulk and Kilsyth, which the Weekly covers, there are respectively an estimated 755, 886, 610, 543 and 717 people living with dementia.
This is projected to rise to 2664 (253 per cent), 2668 (201 per cent), 2316 (280 per cent), 2083 (283 per cent) and 2712 (278 per cent) by 2050.
Alzheimer’s Australia is tackling this issue through the launch a world-first public brain-health program, Your Brain Matters.
There is increasing evidence that looking after your brain, body and heart can help reduce your risk of developing dementia. If risk factors, including smoking, obesity and lack of physical activity, were cut by 25 per cent, there would be three million fewer cases of Alzheimer’s worldwide.
While there is, as yet, no cure, it may be possible to reduce your risk of developing dementia, or delay the onset by taking action in your 30s, 40s and 50s. I encourage your readers to look after their brain health and find out more during Dementia Awareness Week, September 21-28, by calling 1800 100 500.
— David Galbally, QC, president, Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, Hawthorn