Inequities in access to dementia support, workforce shortages and funding challenges are shared by Commonwealth Countries, according to the findings of a new report released at this month’s dementia conference.
Dementia in the Commonwealth – developed by the Commonwealth Association for the Ageing and believed to be the first of its kind – shines a light on the challenges and best practices that currently stand in the dementia care and support sector and calls for action to elevate the lives of those affected by dementia.
Australian leaders and experts in this field contributed to the findings, which were drawn from research and collaboration with experts, people living with dementia, carers and healthcare providers from across the Commonwealth.
The report – launched on Friday – serves as an essential aid for anyone looking to find out more about what they can do to help themselves and their community, plus those working in care and policy, health or community development.
The 158-page document also highlights models of care across the Commonwealth report and can serve as standards for the much-needed improvements.
When speaking to delegates at Friday’s launch, report project manager, chief editor and author, Dr Emma Hodges, expressed her concern with “struggles” that all areas of the Commonwealth were currently facing when it came to the human rights of people living with dementia.
“When we think about the theme of this conference – in the arena – people whose human rights are not being met in the context of dementia are in the arena,” Dr Hodges said.
“They’ve been in the arena every single day. So, we need to get in, stay in and be alongside.”
HammondCare Dementia Centre general manager Angela Raguz said the report was a “significant opportunity” for the Commonwealth to share expertise and resources to improve the lives of not only those living with dementia, but the people that care for them also.
“As the Commonwealth turns 75 years of age, this report challenges us to consider the realities for its citizens in their 70s with dementia,” Ms Raguz said.
“I’m looking forward to the opportunities for The Dementia Centre to collaborate with the many contributors to this report across the Commonwealth.”
Other key findings include:
- communities are mobilising to create greater awareness and dementia friendly spaces to reduce isolation and discrimination
- health and care professionals are working with other key stakeholders to find new ways of providing culturally appropriate care and support
- entrepreneurs are seeking solutions across key areas such as housing, residential care and technology.
Dr Hodges said she was pleased that of the 56 countries in the Commonwealth, 30 per cent feature in the report.
“Obviously, we’d like that to grow. We’re hoping to do a repeat of the report in two years’ time to demonstrate the progress,” Dr Hodges said.
“We want to hear from all parts of the Commonwealth because everyone has a unique experience to share and there’s common themes that we could look at worldwide when it comes to innovations and policy change.”
According to Dr Hodges, 59 per cent of Commonwealth nations (33) do not yet have a National Dementia Plan or strategy in place but all nations are expected to have one by 2025.
Another 19 per cent are in the process of developing an NDP, including Australia.
Comment on the story below. Follow Australian Ageing Agenda on LinkedIn, X (Twitter) and Facebook, sign up to our twice-weekly newsletter and subscribe to our premium content or AAA magazine for the complete aged care picture.
