With the number of Australians affected by dementia surpassing 400,000, this disease has become the primary health concern for our aging population. While dementia is not an inevitable part of ageing, the risk of developing it does increase with age. As Australia’s population continues to age, the number of individuals living with dementia is projected to double by 2050.

While new dementia treatments are showing promise, caring for those with dementia is no easy task.  It requires a multidisciplinary team of skilled professionals.

Many are worried that aged care staff aren’t properly trained to deal with the challenges of dementia.

So, do aged care staff have the training and support they need to meet this challenge?

Does our aged care workforce have the training it needs?

Given the intensive requirements of caring for those with dementia, many say the aged care workforce needs more specialised dementia training.

Unlike in hospital or childcare staff, aged care workers often aren’t required to do ongoing training. In a hospital, medical professionals will have intensive training in their area of expertise, such as cancer or heart disease. Similarly, childcare workers undergo rigorous training to meet developmental and safety standards.

In contrast, many aged care workers provide support to residents with dementia despite having minimal training.

The lack of adequate training among aged care workers has a profound impact on the quality of care that patients with dementia receive.

Why is increased dementia training for aged care workers important?

Experts say increased knowledge of dementia is critical for improving the outcomes of residents, families and aged care workers alike.
Improving dementia knowledge would not only raise the standards of care patients receive but also help shift perceptions about aging and dementia in the wider community.

Dementia training can provide aged care workers with the opportunity to learn from others in the field.

The impact of dementia training on the aged care workforce can be significant. For example, aged care workers who have received dementia training report reduced stress and greater confidence in caring for those with the disease.

What’s behind this issue?

Experts say the gap in dementia care comes down to a lack of real investment in building the skills and knowledge of the aged care workforce.

Advocates say more aged care providers should adopt a learning culture. That is, they should be constantly striving to improve the level of care they provide.

Many aged care facilities focus more on staying financially viable and meeting regulations than on training their staff

Some question whether society places the same value on older people as it does on other groups, such as children.

What can be done?

Advocates say that dementia training should be embedded into aged care standards. Providers should also be encouraged to invest in dementia care for their staff.

Aged care staff should also be encouraged to share their knowledge with one another.

Aged care workers are busy people. Therefore, additional training courses should be offered in a flexible, part-time capacity.

Dementia is a complex condition, and those who live with it deserve tailored, compassionate support. To provide this level of care, our aged care workforce must be equipped with the right training and resources.

Aged care workers make an incredible difference in the lives of older Australians. If you’re ready to be part of this vital and rewarding profession, Aged Care Resumes can help you take the next step. We offer professional resume writing, tailored selection criteria, and support to help you stand out.

Article References

Neeland, J (17 June 2025) ‘Raising the floor: Why is dementia training so undervalued in aged care?’, Hellocare, accessed 14 July 2025.

Woods, J.A et. al (6 June 2025) ‘Training for dementia care and support in rural and remote Australia: appraisals from a nationwide workforce survey’, BMC Geriatrics, accessed 14 July 2025.