17/09/2025
15 - 21 September is Dementia Action Week.
Originally established in 1994 by Alzheimerโs Society in the UK as Dementia Awareness Week, this campaign has grown into a global movement focused on awareness, education, and action to better support people living with dementia and their families.
Dementia is an umbrella term for cognitive decline and covers a range of diseases with different symptoms. The most well-known is Alzheimerโs disease, but there are many other types. Itโs possible to have more than one at the same time, which is called โmixed dementia.โ
While dementia is often associated with memory loss and confusion, it can also affect communication (both speech and writing), decision-making, mood, and behaviour. These changes can impact daily life, relationships, and independence.
Some people are at a higher risk of developing dementia, including those who:
โข Come from lower socio-economic groups
โข Have high blood pressure
โข Are socially isolated
โข Have a family history of dementia
โข Smoke, or drink excessively
โข Are physically inactive, or obese in midlife
Many of these are considered โmodifiable risk factorsโ that a person can reduce through maintaining a healthy diet, keeping physically active, and reducing or quitting the use of substances.
(Source: aihw.gov.au/reports/dementia/dementia-in-aus)
The goal of Dementia Action Week is to increase awareness and overcome stigma, encourage early diagnosis and support, and create more dementia-friendly communities. Small actions like learning about dementia, reaching out to people you know who may be experiencing symptoms, or advocating for inclusive spaces can all help make a big difference.
