Dementia care advocates call for respite review and faster diagnosis

Advocacy groups are calling for urgent improvements to dementia support services, highlighting critical failures in respite care and diagnosis timelines.

Dementia Australia and Carers Australia have requested a national review of Commonwealth-funded respite services, noting that the last dedicated review occurred nearly 30 years ago. A 2025 survey indicated that 60 per cent of carers struggle to find services in their local area, while many others face issues with affordability and long waiting times. Experts warn that inadequate respite care can lead to carer burnout, unplanned hospitalizations, or premature entry into residential aged care.

In a separate report, the Alzheimer’s Society revealed that prolonged waits for dementia diagnoses are significantly impacting families. Research involving over 1,000 carers found that 45 per cent waited more than six months for a diagnosis after seeking help. These delays have led to financial strain, with 37 per cent of respondents using personal savings to manage care, and professional consequences, as 46 per cent reported the wait affected their work. The charity is advocating for a new standard to ensure diagnosis and care plans are provided within 18 weeks of a GP referral.