Why allied health support is key for dementia care

There are calls for appropriate funding to be made available for dementia patients to access allied health support and services.

According to Dementia Australia, Occupational Therapy Australia and Speech Pathology Australia, access to services such as speech pathology and occupational therapy is crucial.

Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said that allied health services such as speech pathology and occupational therapy provide significant benefits to people living with dementia and support them to maintain their physical and cognitive health, independence and wellbeing for as long as possible.

“More than an estimated 433,300 Australians live with dementia in 2025, and this is expected to almost double by 2054. It is vital that people have immediate, ongoing and flexible access to early intervention supports,” Buchanan said.

“When people receive a dementia diagnosis, they commonly encounter challenges in navigating healthcare, specialist, disability and aged care systems, including referral and access to allied health services.

“That’s why in our Federal Pre-Budget Submission 2025–26, Dementia Australia is asking the federal government to support the development of a team of Dementia Specialist Navigators within Dementia Australia which will directly address these challenges.”

Speech Pathology Australia CEO Lyn Brodie said speech pathology is a vital part of dementia rehabilitation and should be accessible to all people with dementia and their carers.

“A clear and well-funded post-diagnostic pathway to allied health services, including speech pathology, is essential for supporting people living with dementia,” Brodie said.

Occupational Therapy Australia CEO Samantha Hunter said that allied health professionals have a profound impact in empowering people living with dementia to maintain their independence and quality of life.

“Occupational therapists play a unique role in enhancing care through home modifications, assistive technologies, or tailored interventions in residential and community settings,” Hunter said.

For support or advice, please contact the National Dementia Helpline, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, on 1800 100 500.

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