Publish date: 15 September 2025
This Dementia Action Week , we’re reflecting on what dementia means for our customers, their families, our workforce, and our community. For us at Bethanie, it’s deeply personal: around 40% of our aged care residents are living with dementia, and the need for dementia care is increasing every year.
Why awareness matters
Dementia is not a normal part of ageing. It’s a brain condition that affects memory, mood, thinking, and behaviour. It’s now the second leading cause of disease burden and death in Australia, with more than 433,000 Australians living with dementia today.
Yet despite its impact, dementia remains widely misunderstood. The good news? Dementia is a preventable, lifestyle disease. That means what we do today by looking after our health, staying social connected, and supporting one another, can shape tomorrow.
Studies led by Professor Henry Brodaty demonstrate that lifestyle changes can delay the onset of dementia by up to 10%. In fact, it’s estimated that between 45% and 56% of dementia cases worldwide could have been prevented or their onset delayed by reducing modifiable risk factors such as physical inactivity, poor diet, smoking, and social isolation.
Our role at Bethanie
We’re taking proactive and practical steps that make a difference to residents with dementia, their families, and carers. From thoughtfully redesigning memory support units at our Aged Care Homes to providing small, supportive environments where people can enjoy social connection, dedicated activities, and a sense of belonging, we're providing a positive experience for all ageing Australians and their families.
We can all play a part
Nobody can do this alone. We all have a role to play, whether that’s making lifestyle choices that protect our brain health, showing kindness and patience to someone with dementia, or starting conversations that reduce stigma and build understanding.
Together, we can create a more supportive, dementia-friendly community.
If you’d like more information, resources, and practical tips visit Dementia Australia’s website.
