Alzheimer’s Australia announces president elect
Alzheimer’s Australia has today announced that Ita Buttrose, will take on the role of president.
“It is an immense pleasure to welcome Ita on board in the fight against dementia. Her support and work for the organisation will benefit all those living dementia and caring for someone with dementia,” said Glenn Rees, chief executive officer, Alzheimer’s Australia.
Ms Buttrose has been involved with the organisation on the New South Wales (NSW) Advisory Committee before becoming an Alzheimer’s Australia NSW Ambassador last September.
“I cared for my father when he was diagnosed and was fortunate enough to care for him at home until he died,” said Ms Buttrose.
“I shared many times of laughter, sadness and tears with both my father and family while caring for him and I understand the additional pressures on family carers who are caring for someone with dementia.
“The Productivity Commission’s draft report on aged care did not adequately acknowledge dementia as the core business of aged care and the need for more community and residential care places,” said Ms Buttrose.
“The dementia epidemic is already driving the need for growth in residential and community care places.
“A comprehensive plan is needed to respond to the dementia epidemic.”
Currently there are 269,000 Australians living with dementia and this will increase to almost 1 million by 2050.
Alzheimer’s Australia provides a range of resources for carers and their families including the National Dementia Helpline (1800 100 500) which last year, received over 28,000 calls. It also has access to an interpreter service for callers who do not speak English at home.
Staff and volunteers on the Helpline can provide: understanding and support for people with dementia, their family and carers; practical information and advice; up-to-date written material about dementia; information about services available from Alzheimer’s Australia and other service providers, and information about how to reduce the risk of developing dementia.
