Dementia Australia has been leading a national push to reduce the stigma surrounding dementia and increase support for people living with the condition through its Dementia Friendly Communities initiative.

The program aims to make towns and neighbourhoods a “place where people living with dementia, their families, community members and businesses create spaces that are respectful, supportive and empowering”.

With dementia affecting a growing number of Australians, the initiative recognises that support must extend beyond clinical care. It seeks to reduce isolation, promote inclusion and ensure those living with dementia remain active and valued members of the community.

So how can we make communities truly dementia friendly?

Why are dementia-friendly communities important?

According to Dementia Australia, around two-thirds of the 433,000 Australians living with dementia reside in communities that could do more to support their ability to live independently.

Many people with dementia experience social isolation, which can lead to anxiety and depression and may further worsen symptoms.

The impact is also significant for carers. Greater understanding and support from the broader community can help reduce this burden.

Helen Healy recalled her mother’s experience living in the Victorian town Of Ouyen. Ouyen has been designated a dementia friendly community.

“It wasn’t just the paid professionals who supported her,” Ms Healy told the ABC.

“I would get phoned from somebody who owned the local supermarket or somebody in the bakery shop or the chemist going, ‘Your mum’s been going down the street popping into each shop asking if we’ve got her car keys because she’s put them down somewhere.”

“I just thought that level of care from the community itself was just exemplary and probably leading the way for a community becoming a dementia-friendly place.”

 

How to create a dementia friendly community

 

Some of the ways you can help make your community more supportive of those living with dementia include:

Ensuring those with dementia are included and active

One of the most important steps is to ensure people living with dementia remain included and engaged in everyday community life. Supporting participation in social, recreational and local activities helps maintain independence, dignity and connection.

Increasing awareness of dementia

Community awareness of dementia needs to improve. Educating the broader public about the condition — and its impact on people’s lives — can help reduce stigma. When people better understand dementia and hear directly from those living with it, communities become more supportive and inclusive.

Businesses, organisations and individuals should work together to better support those living with dementia. By collaborating, communities can share knowledge, coordinate services and create more inclusive environments.

Advocate for change

Community members should advocate for people living with dementia to be seen, heard and respected. They can also challenge negative stereotypes and misconceptions. This helps to create a more inclusive and understanding society.

With dementia becoming increasingly prevalent, it is essential that those living with the condition receive the care, understanding and support they need. As awareness grows and communities work to become more dementia friendly, demand for a skilled and compassionate aged care workforce continues to rise.
For those considering a career in the sector, there has never been a more important — or opportune — time to enter the industry.

Are you looking for a new career? Aged Care Resumes can help. We are pleased to offer various services including our resume writing service and cover letter writing service.

Article References

Buchecker, S (22 December 2025) ‘How your town can become a ‘dementia-friendly’ community’, ABC News, accessed 12 February 2026

Dementia Australia (n.d) ‘About Dementia-Friendly Communities’, Dementia Australia, accessed 12 February 2026

Department Of Health, disability & Aging (n.d) ‘Dementia-Friendly Communities’, Department of health, disability & Aging, accessed 12 February 2026