Be informed to make a life changing difference this Dementia Action Week

More than 447,000 Australians live with dementia, with that number expected to increase to almost 1.1 million by 2058.

"Dementia will impact most of us throughout our lives in one way or another, and it is time to bring that conversation to the forefront, and acknowledge the impact dementia has on those living with the disease, their families and carers and across the community," Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe said.

"The overarching aim of the campaign will be to encourage all Australians to become more aware of dementia, to get a better understanding of what it is like to live with dementia and to learn how we can support people of all ages, living with all forms of dementia, their families and carers.

"Too many Australians do not know where to turn, and there is a perception in the community that nothing can be done following a diagnosis of dementia. It is important for people to understand that with the right support, information and services this can make a life-changing difference to people living with dementia."

You may not have heard of memory cafes but they are regular meetings across Australia where community members with dementia, and those who help care for them, can connect with others while enjoying coffee, cake and conversation.

Alzheimer's WA CEO Rhonda Parker said memory cafes offered an opportunity for people living with dementia to socialise, feel welcomed in a safe and inclusive environment and make new friends, and were part of a larger, overall effort to "reduce the stigma attached to dementia and instead develop a community that enables and supports people living with dementia to remain active in the community rather than be confined within the four walls of their home".

Ms Parker said 70 per cent of people with a dementia diagnosis lived at home, making dementia a community challenge rather than just an aged care one: "It is imperative that opportunities exist for people living with dementia to have continued engagement in the local community in ordinary, everyday activities, and that they feel safe, comfortable and confident to do so," she said. Contact your state-based dementia organisation to find your nearest memory cafe.

Dementia Australia offers some useful tips for supporting a friend with dementia.