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Alzheimer’s WA discusses priorities and challenges in dementia care

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Dementia Now Australia's Leading Cause of Death

Alzheimer's WA outlines priorities for early detection and support across the state

Dementia has become the leading cause of death in Australia, with Alzheimer's WA identifying early detection and expanded support services as immediate priorities.

Key Challenges and Priorities

Alzheimer's WA, led by CEO Ella Dachs and chairman Professor Warren Harding, has outlined several immediate priorities for addressing the growing crisis. These include early detection, expanding support services, and meeting the needs of Western Australia's geographically diverse population.

Ella Dachs (CEO) emphasized the need for "timely, compassionate information and support services." Key priorities include strengthening person-centred services, expanding respite care, and enabling aging in place with dignity.

Professor Warren Harding (Chairman) highlighted the global focus on earlier detection, noting that while there is no cure, early intervention is critical. Alzheimer's WA is collaborating on AI-enabled eye and pupil light response assessments. A study at Osborne Park Memory Clinic showed over 90% correlation with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Early detection allows addressing 14 known lifestyle risk factors.

Western Australia–Specific Developments

Alzheimer's WA worked with the WA Government to create the first State Dementia Action Plan (announced in 2025). The plan focuses on:

  • Awareness and care communication
  • Dementia-friendly environments in hospitals
  • Training of acute nurses

Alzheimer's WA is developing training courses to support these initiatives.

"WA's vast distances and remote communities require outreach and regional capacity-building."

The organisation recently opened an overnight respite cottage in the Great Southern Region, addressing the unique needs of regional communities.

Resourcing and Challenges

48,000 West Australians are currently living with dementia, supported by 200,000 carers. A new diagnosis occurs every six minutes.

Funding is stretched, with demand outpacing available resources. The Support at Home program has created operational challenges, and sustainable funding reform is urgently needed.

Looking Ahead

Part Two of this series will explore:

  • Dealing with dementia rates in WA's growing population
  • Communicating change to those diagnosed and their carers
  • First steps after memory issues arise
  • The importance of a well-informed public