Opening of the National Conference of the Alzheimer's Association

21/9/99
Western Australia's ageing population meant expert input into our knowledge of Alzheimer's disease was essential, according to Health Minister John Day.
Opening the National Conference of the Alzheimer's Association, Mr Day welcomed a number of international experts to the conference who will be outlining their research findings into dementia.
"Alzheimer's is by far the most common form of dementia anywhere in Australia, with at least half of those people who have dementia suffering from Alzheimer's," he said.
"Its prevalence increases greatly with age, with almost one in four people having the disease in the 85 years and over age group.
"WA's ageing population means Alzheimer's will continue to grow as a public health issue in terms of treatment and residential care."
Mr Day said the State Government provided almost $1.6 million a year to the Alzheimer's Association under the Home and Community Care Program. The funding provided for respite, personal care, carer support and program support.
Speakers at the conference, to be held in Mandurah from September 21 to the 25, include experts from Norway, UK and Canada, and a United Nations special adviser for human rights. They will speak on new research into Alzheimer's, the different uses of technology in dementia care, and human rights issues.
Mr Day said Australian experts would speak on dementia care policy developments, and the direction of accommodation and care services in Australia.
He said there would be approximately 500 delegates attending the conference, who work in various capacities with people with Alzheimer's disease and their families.
Conference workshops will cover in-home respite, planning holidays, involvement in social and sporting activities, and other issues as they relate to living with dementia.

Media contact: Mark Thompson on 9213 6600