Alliance agreement a ‘natural fit’

With Dementia Australia positioned as the national peak body and charity for people of all aged living with all forms of dementia, their families and carers, and Dementia Alliance International the peak organisation with membership exclusively for people with a medically confirmed diagnosis of any type of dementia around the world, the MOU recognises that both organisations are aligned in autonomy, independence and the human rights of people living with dementia.

Dementia Australia Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Maree McCabe says the agreement is all about championing the rights of people living with dementia.

“We share a commitment and vision for a world where people living with dementia are valued, included and receive the care and support they choose,” she says.

Dementia Alliance International Chair, CEO and Co-founder, Kate Swaffer, says the organisations will advocate together to expand the awareness and understanding of dementia across the aged care, disability and health care sectors in Australia and on the world stage.

“Together we will liaise on global dementia policy issues, to ensure our policies and programs are aligned to the WHO Global Dementia Action Plan,” Ms Swaffer says.

“As the global voice of dementia, Dementia Alliance International provides a platform for the many people living with dementia who are capable of representing themselves, or speaking up for those who are no longer able to.

“We have members in 48 countries, and self-advocacy is becoming a strong focus, where we work with members of Alzheimer’s Disease International, such as Dementia Australia, to empower others to have a voice.

“Dementia Australia is the first national dementia association to partner with us, and DAI is very proud to be more formally working with them.

“It is a natural fit for the two peak bodies to work together to promote awareness and understanding of dementia.”