Dementia Australia, Occupational Therapy Australia and Speech Pathology Australia have today called for people living with dementia to have access to pathways of allied health support and services, such as speech pathology and occupational therapy, with appropriate funding.
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,” Professor 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.”
The three national peak bodies participated in a Dementia Australia webinar: Dementia and Allied Health: Personal and Professional Perspectives on the Benefits of Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology.
The webinar was introduced by Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care Chief Allied Health Officer Anita Hobson-Powell and highlighted joint position statements on speech pathology, occupational therapy and dementia.
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.” Ms 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,” Ms Hunter said.
Webinar panellists Dementia Australia Dementia Advocates Scott Cooper and John Quinn attest to the importance of immediate post-diagnostic and ongoing access to allied health services to support the wellbeing of the person diagnosed, family members and carers.
Mr Cooper said having allied health services is critical as his abilities and needs change.
“You can’t underestimate the value and difference the speech pathologist has made in our lives, and it is critical for care partners too,” Mr Cooper said.
“Reablement – that’s what it’s all about. Engaging with an occupational therapist supports me to maintain my independence, agency and continue to do the things I enjoy doing,” Mr Quinn said.
The joint position statements are available on Dementia Australia’s website at dementia.org.au/about-us/
