Dementia is the third leading cause of death in Australia

Most importantly Alzheimer’s is a form of Dementia. Dementia is fatal and, as yet, there is no cure. It is not a normal part of ageing. Dementia is not just an elderly persons disease, early on set dementia is becoming more common and we all must be aware of the signs of the on set.

Here are some facts to clear up the myths:

• An estimated 257,0001 Australians currently live with dementia
• Without a significant medical breakthrough, that is expected to soar to about 1 million2 (981,000) by 2050
• NSW accounts for about 1/3rd of all cases (An estimated 88,000 live with dementia now; 300,000 by 2050
• Dementia is the third leading cause of death in Australia, after heart disease and stroke3
• One in four people over the age of 85 have dementia
• National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500
• Dementia is fatal and it is not a normal part of ageing
• Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia
• While there is, as yet, no cure, scientific research shows it may be possible to reduce your risk of developing dementia, or delay the onset – Mind your Mind: leading a healthy lifestyle physically, mentally and socially

1 Keeping Dementia Front of Mind: Incidence and Prevalence 2009 – 2050, Access Economics, August 2009 2 Caring Places: Planning for Aged Care and Dementia 2010 – 2050, Access Economics, July 2010 3 Causes of Death, Australia 2008 – Australian Bureau of Statistics, March 2010

Alzheimer’s Australia NSW is the peak body for people with dementia and their families and carers. It provides policy, advocacy, support services, counselling, education, early intervention programs, diversional therapy, respite and information. It also conducts community awareness presentations about dementia and risk reduction.

I will be taking on my biggest Adventure yet, Climbing Kilimanjaro for Alzheimer’s Australia NSW!  I will Climb Kilimanjaro in honour of my Grandpa who passed away from Alzheimer’s in 2008. I was in Africa when I found out and I said at the time I would one day do this for him, in his memory! We are raising money for Alzheimer’s Australia NSW to raise awareness and the necessary funds for prevention of the disease that affects so many. Dementia is the third leading cause of death in Australia, after heart disease and stroke. We must prevent and find a cure as it’s not a normal part of aging, and does affect 100,000’s of Australians.

Help me reach my $10.000 target by donating to my online fundraising page:

http://my.artezpacific.com/personalPage.aspx?SID=357503&Lang=en-CA

KILI COUNTDOWN – 38 Days to go