A new report, released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), shows dementia has now overtaken heart disease as the leading cause of death among Australian women. Closer to home, the Access Economics Report, “Projections of dementia prevalence and incidence in WA: 2010–2050”, shows that the City of Melville has the highest number of people living with dementia, compared to other local government areas within WA.
You Are Not Alone
The City of Melville is committed to supporting our community to live well with dementia, as well as supporting measures to prevent its onset. As part of this commitment, the City aligns its Age-friendly Melville Plan with the Dementia-friendly Communities framework, as outlined by Alzheimer’s WA (AWA), and works in close partnership with AWA to create a place where people living with dementia are supported and are able to participate in everyday life of the local community.
Dementia-friendly Communities
A diagnosis of dementia does not mean it is not possible to live well. Many people with dementia continue to drive, socialise and hold down satisfying jobs. Even as dementia progresses, people can lead active, healthy lives, carry on with their hobbies and enjoy loving friendships and relationships. Someone with dementia may forget an appointment or tell you the same joke twice, but their condition does not stop them doing the things that matter the most. It is easier for someone to live well with dementia if the people they come into contact with respond in a positive and supportive way. This is why having dementia-friendly communities is so important.
This site will continue to be developed with resources, information and links that may be useful for people living with dementia. Additionally, some local members of the Melville Community who live with dementia, and their care partners, have offered to add their stories to this site via video interviews. Monitor this site for additional information and don't hesitate to contact us if you would like to comment or provide feedback.
Alzheimer's WA
If you require further information about living with dementia, or if you have concerns about a family member or friend, please contact Alzheimer’s WA.
As the dementia experts, Alzheimer’s WA works with those living with dementia, and the organisations that care and support them, to have the greatest beneficial impact on their dementia journey. Their client services, advocacy work, training, and consultancy programs are based on a philosophy of understanding the lived experience of dementia. We are guided by people living with dementia and our approach views dementia as a holistic experience for the person rather than just a biological illness.
To find out more visit Alzheimer's WA or call 1300 667 788.