In the state electorate of Oakleigh there are an estimated 905 people living with dementia, and in other electorates the Weekly covers, there are 881 in Caulfield, Clayton 902, Mount Waverley 917 and Mulgrave 769.
These figures are projected to rise respectively to 2243 (148 per cent), 1987 (125 per cent), 2569 (185 per cent), 2602 (184 per cent) and 2806 (265 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