Dementia remains Australia’s leading cause of death, and the Federal Government has announced a fresh $22.9 million investment in research aimed at helping people stay healthier for longer as they age.
The funding, delivered through the Medical Research Future Fund’s Dementia, Ageing and Aged Care Mission, will support eight research projects over the next five years, including initiatives focused on delaying cognitive decline and improving quality of life.
Among the largest grants is $3 million for an expanded version of the online brain health program Maintain Your Brain (MYB), led by 2026 Senior Australian of the Year Professor Henry Brodaty AO from the University of New South Wales.
Previous research from the program found that personalised online coaching helped reduce dementia risk and improve cognition. Researchers now plan to develop MYB+, a more accessible version designed to reach Australians aged 45 to 80, particularly those living in rural and remote communities.
The announcement comes as growing evidence suggests many dementia cases may be preventable. According to the Australian Government, up to 45 per cent of dementia cases globally could potentially be avoided or delayed by addressing modifiable risk factors such as hearing loss, physical inactivity, smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and social isolation.
Researchers estimate that nearly half of dementia cases worldwide could potentially be delayed or prevented through lifestyle and health interventions, making areas such as hearing health, sleep, exercise and cardiovascular health a growing focus of research efforts.
Another project receiving funding is Dementia Friends Unite, a community-led education and care program for culturally diverse older Australians and their families. The initiative, led by Dr Diana Karamacoska from Western Sydney University, has been awarded $900,000.
Health Minister Mark Butler said research remained one of the most powerful tools in the fight against dementia.
“Dementia is the leading cause of death in Australia – making action more important than ever,” he said.
The Dementia, Ageing and Aged Care Mission is investing a total of $185 million in research aimed at helping older Australians maintain their health, remain independent for longer and access better care when needed.
IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.