Counting the cost of dementia

That’s according to new research from Adelaide’s Flinders University. The sum is far higher than previously thought and provides the most precise estimate to date of the cost of providing quality care to dementia patients in aged care settings.

Dementia Australia said the findings back the peak body’s call for urgent “ongoing, systematic” reforms to the aged care sector.

It said costs can be reduced with improved training and by applying dementia-friendly principles in the community, the aged care sector and hospitals.

Dementia Australia chief executive Maree McCabe said with 425,000 people living with dementia in Australia this research contributes compelling data to the national estimate that the cost of dementia care to our economy is more than $15 billion annually.

The Flinders University report found that 54 per cent of the costs were pharmacological and 38 per cent related to hospital care.

“This suggests that clinical interventions are more common in residential aged care rather than opting for a more holistic approach,” Ms McCabe said.

“We know from our own research and internationally that person-centred care can reduce the use of antipsychotics and other drugs.

She said the research reinforces the need for “more strategic investment in dementia services to avoid an escalation in costs that will be unsustainable”.

The research cost estimate was based on a study of 541 individuals across 17 aged care facilities.

Welcoming the research, Aged and Community Services Australia chief executive Pat Sparrow said the study provided “invaluable research” into understanding the future needs of the sector.

“The figures contained in this survey underscore just how acute the funding needs will become over time if the government, and the community at large, fail to address the financial sustainability of the sector,” Ms Sparrow said.

“Research like this should become part of the conversation about community expectations for services and support for people living with dementia and how those expectations can be met now and in the future.”

THERE are more than 425,000 Australians living with dementia with hundreds of people developing it every day.

Around 250 people develop dementia each day, according to new data from Dementia Australia. This has prompted calls from for people to access Dementia Australia's support services.

Dementia Australia chief executive Maree McCabe said the figures were a "cause for concern" and while there is no cure for dementia, which is the second leading cause of death of Australians and the leading cause of death among Australian women, the right support and information can make a life-changing difference.

"There is a perception in the community that nothing can be done following a diagnosis of dementia," Ms McCabe said.

"However, with an estimated 425,000 Australians living with dementia this year alone, which is expected to soar to 536,000 people by 2025 and more than 1.1 million people by 2056, it is vital people understand the right support can make the world of difference to everyone impacted by dementia."

She said one significant issue Dementia Australia staff often hear following a diagnosis of dementia is how isolating it can be.

"However, the right services can help people reconnect and re-establish relationships with partners, families and friends which can be so important for their emotional well-being. Social engagement and keeping physically and mentally active are also key in contributing to better health and lifestyle outcomes following a diagnosis of dementia."

Marina Germolus' son started noticing changes with her memory in 2012 and she was diagnosed with dementia in 2016.

Ms Germolus said reaching out to Dementia Australia for support services has been crucial in enabling her to deal well with her diagnosis and get on with her life, including, importantly, the ability to remain socially active.

"The staff have really understood my needs and what will work for me," she said.

"They have given me social activity. They have given me respect. They have given me understanding. They have allowed me to be who I am and they have assisted me in realising I am not alone. And those are the most important things."

Dementia Australia provides essential, expert advice and support services for people living with dementia providing integrated support from pre-diagnosis right through to end-of-life.

Some of the most progressive health professionals in Australia will gather for the ninth National Dementia Conference in Victoria in May.

The agenda features high-level keynotes, in-depth presentations, panel discussions and Q&A sessions exploring new research, care initiatives, emerging technologies, funding, developments in staff education and overall improvements in supporting people with dementia, their carers and families, and service providers.