Dementia conference helps create better communities

Academics, medical professionals and seniors’ advocates from across Australia have come together in Brisbane today to help improve the lives of people with dementia, with the number of cases in Queensland expected to increase over the next 35 years.

Minister for Disability Services and Seniors Coralee O’Rourke said it was fitting the Dementia Friendly Communities Conference, hosted by Centacare, was held during Carers Week 2015.

 “More than 60,000 people in Queensland will have dementia by next year, and that number is expected to increase to about 215,000 by 2050,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“That is why the Palaszczuk Government went to the election with a $20 million commitment for dementia respite through my colleague Health Minister Cameron Dick and Queensland Health.

“This conference is about raising awareness of how people with dementia can continue living in their own communities in a meaningful way and how we can help support them now and into the future.

“It is vital that communities are designed to engage all people, including people with dementia, so they have every opportunity to actively and safely participate in community life.

“We need to challenge all Queenslanders to think about their attitudes and perceptions of dementia and how these may prevent or limit the inclusion of people with dementia and their families.

“As our population ages, dementia will have a growing impact on individuals, families and the community.

“It is important that we recognise the vital role carers play in supporting these individuals, as anyone at any time could become a carer for a family member or friend.”

The Palaszczuk Government committed $20 million for dementia respite through my colleague Health Minister Cameron Dick and Queensland Health

Minister O’Rourke said carers made a huge contribution to the lives of the people they care for, including the elderly, people with a disability and those with dementia.

“Carers Week, held from 11 to 17 October this year, is an annual celebration to recognise the wonderful work of around half a million Queensland carers,” she said.

“This is an opportunity to raise community awareness about the diversity of carers and their roles and I encourage all Queenslanders to get involved.”

Centacare Brisbane’s Senior Director Community Services Jenny Clark said Centacare wasseeking to raise awareness of how people with dementia could continue living in their communities,comfortably and safely

“This is a challenge for individuals, businesses, government and non-government organisations alike, and our conference can start the conversation,” she said.   

For more information visit www.communities.qld.gov.au/communityservices/community-support/carers

Media Contact:             Minister O’Rourke’s office                  3719 7184