Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley today marked Dementia Awareness Month by joining children at Carlton North Library to raise awareness of dementia.
Mr Foley was joined by Alzheimer’s Australia Acting National CEO Maree McCabe and Yarra City Mayor Roberto Colanzi to read Brains, Change and Big Long Names – which gives children an insight of what it is like for a person to live with dementia.
The audio book, written by Alzheimer Australia’s family clinician Lynda Moore, has been designed for parents and children to read together and act as a conversation starter to explain complex concepts such as brain function, dementia progression and losing a loved one to dementia.
Almost 97,000 Victorians are living with dementia, which is projected to increase to 386,000 by 2050.
The event is part of Dementia Awareness Month, coordinated by Alzheimer’s Australia, which aims to highlight the importance of people of all ages increasing their understanding of dementia – whether they’re carers, families, friends or a neighbour of someone with dementia.
The Andrews Labor Government provides more than $10 million annually to support initiatives across clinics, hospitals, community services for people with dementia, their carers and families.
For more information about dementia resources for children visit
To attend a Dementia Awareness Month session near you visit
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley
“We all need to learn more about dementia – to ensure those living with it, know they aren’t alone.”
“The more we know, the more we can all support people with dementia and their families and carers to continue being part of the community.”
Quotes attributable to Alzheimer’s Australia Acting National CEO Maree McCabe
“The aim of the book is to start a discussion with children and their parents about dementia – what it is, what changes might happen and how children of all ages can support people living with dementia and their carers in the family setting.”
“I am inviting all librarians around Victoria to be inspired to develop a similar activity with a dementia theme using the free story, interactive game and video resources we have available.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020