As an individual

Small, everyday acts of support and understanding can make a big difference in the lives of people living with dementia, their families and carers. What could you do?

In Australia, almost half a million people now live with dementia. Dementia is the second leading cause of death of all Australians. It is the leading cause of death of Australian women.

Dementia can happen to anyone, but it is more common after the age of 65. It could affect a family member, a neighbour, a work colleague, or even you.

It is important for us all to build communities in which people living with dementia are understood, accepted and included.

Become a Dementia Friend

Creating a dementia-friendly community starts with becoming a Dementia Friend. As a Dementia Friend, you will build an understanding of:

• dementia
• the challenges faced by people living with dementia
• what a dementia-friendly community means to people living with dementia
• how to support people living with dementia to stay connected.

It is easy to get started.

Step 1:

Sign-up online to access a series of short videos, information and personal stories. The program includes a video for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Or you can attend an in-person Dementia Friends session in your community. Visit our events page to find a session in your area.

Step 2:

After becoming a Dementia Friend, you may want to:

• ask your friends and family to become Dementia Friends
• raise awareness by becoming a Dementia Friends host
• make your community group more inclusive
• contact your local dementia alliance. 

Find out what dementia-friendly work is happening in your community. Or you can encourage others to join with you to create a dementia alliance.