Without a medical breakthrough, dementia cases will almost double by 2054

"When I got my diagnosis, the first thing I did was ring the National Dementia Helpline. It was the best decision I ever made," she said.

"I wanted someone who knew what I was going through. I was able to offload a lot in that initial call. It was the start of receiving support which was invaluable. In those first few months, Dementia Australia offered me emotional help and counselling.

"I'm close to my family. They are always there for me, but I knew I needed more than that."

Ms Daskalakis who is a Dementia Australia Dementia Advocate, said figures show the disease's prevalence is expected to double by 2054, which emphasised the importance of seeking support.

She strongly recommended people call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800-100-500.

Research commissioned by Dementia Australia and undertaken by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reveals that dementia rates will increase by 93 per cent by 2054.

In 2024, there are more than 421,000 people living with all forms of dementia in Australia. By 2054, without a medical breakthrough, this will grow to 812,500 people.

Dementia Australia chief executive Maree McCabe said with the prevalence of dementia growing every year, there will be increased demand for support services for people living with dementia, their families and carers.

"Dementia is the second leading cause of death of all Australians and the leading cause of death for women. Provisional data is showing that dementia will likely soon be the leading cause of death of all Australians," Ms McCabe said.

"It is one of the most significant health and social challenges facing Australia and the world. This data will help to inform planning and funding of services and programs around Australia to meet current and future needs.

"No one should have to face dementia alone. That's why Dementia Australia is here and we're always here to help you. If you, or a loved one, has a diagnosis of dementia, or mild cognitive impairment, or you're concerned about changes to your cognition or that of a loved one, Dementia Australia is here 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year."

All Australian states and territories will experience an increase in the number of people diagnosed with dementia over the next 30 years.

Overall, Western Australia will witness the highest growth of people living with dementia at 109 per cent, followed by the Northern Territory with 106 per cent, the Australian Capital Territory at 104 per cent, Queensland at 100 per cent, Victoria at 96 per cent, South Australia at 59 per cent, with the lowest growth in the state of Tasmania at 52 per cent.

More details about dementia prevalence data local to your Federal, State and Territory electoral divisions as well as for Local Government Areas here.