media release

DATE 19/09/08

Mind your mind

"Dementia is projected to be one of the fastest growing diseases by 2023.  There are currently 227,000 who suffer dementia, and this will grow to 731,000 by 2050 unless there is a breakthrough in research." Senator Polley said today on the eve of Dementia Awareness Week.

The continuing increase in the rate of dementia sufferers in Australia is a concern of Senator Polley.

"The symptoms of dementia are hard to spot, but they include confusion, personality change, apathy and withdrawal and the inability to perform everyday tasks.

There are also some significant warning signs that the public should be alert to. These include:

• Recent memory loss
• Problems with language
• Poor judgement
• Problems with abstract thinking
• Changes in mood or behaviour
• Loss of initiative

I believe this is a critical issue and one that needs to be monitored closely.  All possible avenues that can lead to better treatment and care of dementia sufferers should be looked at."

"However there is evidence that it is possible to reduce the risk of dementia and to delay its onset."

"The risk of dementia can be reduced through a range of activities, including staying physically active, eating healthy food and avoiding unhealthy habits.  It's important to everyone, not just the elderly, that they follow these simple tips and keep themselves healthy."

"I congratulate Alzheimer's Australia for inviting the Professor of Old Age Psychiatry at the University of Manchester,  Professor Alistair Burns, to speak in Hobart today in advance of the launch of Dementia Awareness Week on Friday."

"Professor Burns is world renowned in the field of dementia and risk reduction."

The Alzheimer's Australia website (www.alzheimers.org.au) and the National Dementia Helpline (1800 100 500) have further information regarding both Dementia Awareness Week and dementia and risk reduction.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

Umesh Ratnagobal 02 6277 3129
umesh.ratnagobal@aph.gov.au