Dementia Australia has launched a groundbreaking initiative to empower local communities in creating more inclusive environments for people living with dementia. 

The organisation has distributed over $385,000 in grants to 27 community groups across the country, each receiving up to $15,000 to implement tailored dementia-friendly projects. 

This initiative marks a significant shift towards community-led solutions in addressing the challenges faced by the growing number of Australians living with dementia. With more than 421,000 affected individuals, and two-thirds residing in communities, the need for local, targeted support has never been more crucial. 

Dr Kaele Stokes, Executive Director of Services, Advocacy & Research at Dementia Australia, emphasised the importance of involving those directly affected: “We know that discrimination and social isolation have a big impact on people living with dementia. It is vital that people living with dementia are included in discussions about what support they need to continue to participate in their communities.” 

The 2024 grant round, the largest to date, focuses on projects that meaningfully consult with people impacted by dementia, foster collaborative local partnerships, and address the needs of diverse communities. 

This approach aims to create a more inclusive society where people with dementia can “meaningfully and purposefully contribute to their community,” as Dr Stokes noted. 

The Community Engagement Program has now distributed over $1.1 million across five grant rounds, supporting more than 90 groups. This latest round of funding, backed by the Australian Government, represents a significant step towards creating a nationwide network of dementia-friendly communities. 

By empowering local groups to tailor solutions to their specific needs, this initiative promises to make a real difference in the lives of those affected by dementia, promoting inclusivity and respect on a community level. 

Related: Dementia Australia Research Foundation celebrate 25 years and $31M of impact in dementia research

This article was also published on the Healthcare Channel.

Third Sector

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