Joining forces to promote brain health

To coincide with Victorian Seniors Festival 2013, Alzheimer’s Australia Vic will launch an awareness campaign based around the theme ‘Brain Health: Making the Connections.’

The campaign, supported by ExxonMobil Australia, aims to educate the general community about the benefits of brain health and how to go about leading a ‘brain healthy’ lifestyle.

“Our ongoing relationship with ExxonMobil Australia demonstrates how non-profit organisations can work with commercial companies to make a real difference to the community,” Jack Sach, Alzheimer’s Australia Vic general manager strategic initiatives, said.

This promotional campaign features advertisements which will run in regional and suburban newspapers, The Age, Herald Sun and The Senior newspaper, together with Channel 31 community television commercials. In addition, a poster and a post card letter drop promotion will be rolled out in the Altona and Sale, Longford areas.

“While there is, as yet, no cure for dementia, scientific research shows it may be possible to reduce your risk or delay the onset by taking action in your 30s, 40s and 50s,” said Mr Sach.

“One of the main messages behind this campaign is that it is never too late to incorporate brain healthy habits into your lifestyle. Going for a walk, eating more vegetables and fruit, staying socially connected and looking after your cholesterol and blood pressure can all prove beneficial.

“Awareness campaigns such as this are crucial to ensuring as many people as possible are aware of Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, the wide range of services we can offer and the benefits of leading a brain healthy lifestyle.”

Dementia is the third largest cause of death in Australia. More than 320,000 Australians are living with dementia – and this number is projected to reach almost 900,000 by 2050.

In Victoria, there are about 74,600 people living with dementia. As Australia’s population ages that number is set to almost double to 141,000 by 2030.

View the campaign advertisements.

The 31st Victorian Seniors Festival runs from 6 -13 October and comprises free and low cost events across Victoria that cover arts, sport and social engagement. You can find furth details here.