Dementia Australia statement

Dementia Australia is devastated by the tragic events that have led to Ms Clare Nowland being hospitalised.

Dementia Australia acknowledges the seriousness of her condition and extend our sincere sympathies to Ms Nowland and her family.

While Dementia Australia is not aware of the details of what happened and is unable to comment on the circumstances, we have received calls and emails from people living with dementia, their families and carers expressing their anger and sadness for Ms Nowland and her family.

While situations like this are rare, tragically this has highlighted the need for everyone working across healthcare industries to receive compulsory education about dementia to increase their understanding, knowledge and skills in dementia care.

This includes everyone working in the health, aged care and disability systems – including emergency services staff.

We encourage anyone with concerns about changes in behaviour related to dementia to contact Dementia Support Australia on 1800 699 799.

We extend this message of support to anyone in the community who is distressed to contact our National Dementia Helpline service, available 24/7 on 1800 100 500 or at dementia.org.au.

Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated more than 400,000 Australians living with dementia, and the more than 1.5 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.

For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au.