Dementia is Australia’s leading cause of death, but new research suggests it is still not discussed openly enough. 

The YouGov research, commissioned by Dementia Australia for Dementia Action Week, found seven in ten Australians believe dementia is not talked about openly enough. More than half reported having little or no knowledge about dementia. 

This year’s Dementia Action Week theme: It’s time to talk about dementia, encourages Australians to start conversations that improve understanding, reduce stigma and help connect people with support. 

Palliative Care Australia CEO Dr Chris Hatherly said these conversations should also help people understand their care options and express what matters most to them. 

“Talking openly about dementia is an important first step. Those conversations should also give people the opportunity to discuss their goals, preferences and future care while they can be actively involved in those decisions,” Dr Hatherly said. 

“Palliative care can support quality of life for people living with dementia, as well as their families and carers. It should be considered earlier, according to a person’s needs, and integrated more consistently with dementia, health and aged care services.” 

PCA explored these issues during National Palliative Care Week in May, when palliative care physician Dr Michael Chapman delivered a special guest lecture at Parliament House. 

Dr Chapman called for dementia, aged care and palliative care services to work more closely together, arguing that earlier support can improve quality of life, assist families and help ensure care reflects what matters most to the person. 

Read PCA’s Rethinking dementia article with Dr Chapman. 

You can also watch the recording of his special guest lecture, Rethinking Dementia and End-of-Life Care. 

Dementia Action Week runs from 21 to 27 September 2026. 

For dementia information and support, contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 or visit Dementia Australia.