Similarities and differences

Each September, World Alzheimer's Month is observed as an international campaign to raise awareness. The campaign takes place not only in Australia but across the globe to promote a greater understanding of the condition and its impact on individuals and to support people affected by it.

To help raise awareness, we're discussing the similarities and differences between Alzheimer's disease and dementia while also working to dispel the widespread misconception that these conditions are the same.

How many people are living with dementia in Australia?

Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia, impacting countless lives across Australia. According to Dementia Australia, dementia is the second leading cause of death for all Australians. What's more, the latest data suggests that it will soon become the leading cause of death.

Dementia Australia also provides the latest statistics on how many Australians are living with dementia:

"In 2024, it is estimated that more than 421,000 Australians live with dementia. Without a medical breakthrough, the number of people with dementia is expected to increase to more than 812,500 by 2054".

Similarities and differences

There is a common misconception that Alzheimer's and dementia are the same. However, it's important to understand that dementia is not one specific disease. Instead, it's a general term that describes a group of symptoms caused by physical disorders that affect the brain. 

Alzheimer's is a specific disease under the 'dementia' umbrella, meaning every case of Alzheimer's is an example of dementia, but not every type of dementia is Alzheimer's.

It's important to note that there are many types of dementia, and understanding the differentiation between them is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How many types of dementia are there?

There are over 200 subtypes of dementia. Each type prevents a person's brain cells (neurons) from working properly, affecting their ability to remember, think and speak.

The most common types are:

Dementia and residential aged care

Residential aged care facilities play a vital role in providing care and support for older Australians, particularly those with dementia. These facilities offer a wide range of services tailored to meet the complex needs of individuals in the advanced stages of dementia, ensuring they receive constant and specialised care that addresses their cognitive, physical, and emotional wellbeing.

Dementia Australia says there are more than 1.6 million people in Australia who are involved in the care of someone living with dementia. 2 in 3 people with dementia are thought to be living in the community, and 54% of people living in permanent residential aged care have dementia.

Technological advancements helping to support dementia care 

Given the growing ageing population and the consequent demand for dementia care, the aged care sector has recognised the importance of integrating technological advancements, such as mCare, our clinical care system, to enhance support for those living with dementia and their carers.

From a Fluid and Nutrition Monitoring feature that can easily avoid dehydration in residential aged care facilities to the 'Who I Am' feature (modelled on Alzheimer's Society's 'This is Me' tool) that helps improve the quality of information and the sharing of information, mCare has a diverse range of features specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of dementia care.