People living with dementia are twice as likely to experience loneliness compared to the general public – that is one of the key messages being promoted as part of Dementia Awareness Month 2016.

Dementia Awareness Month runs through September to improve awareness and understanding about dementia in the Australian community.

The theme of Dementia Awareness Month 2016 is ‘You are not alone’ and draws on the release of new research indicating that people living with dementia and their carers are among the loneliest in the country.

Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said there are over 350,000 Australians living with dementia and more than 1,800 new cases of dementia in Australia each week – it is not a future issue, it is here and now.

“Dementia impacts a growing number of people in Ipswich and the Somerset Region, and most of us know someone who is affected,” Mr Neumann said.
“Sadly that diagnosis of dementia goes hand-in-hand with stigmas, social isolation and exclusion.

“Six in 10 people living in Ipswich and the Somerset Region admit they know very little about dementia and as many as one on four find people with dementia frightening.

“Dementia Awareness Month is the perfect time to help break the stigma.

“Everyone can take up the challenge to find out more about dementia and help to break down the stigma and misunderstanding associated with the condition.

“We need to look past the symptoms of dementia and create communities where people living with dementia, their families and carers feel supported, empowered and included in society.

“Labor took a comprehensive dementia plan to the election. I call on the Turnbull Liberal Government to show leadership and commit to creating a dementia-friendly nation during Dementia Awareness Month,” Mr Neumann said.

Visit www.fightdementia.org.au to find out about Dementia Awareness Month.

For information, advice and support call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.