Only One in Five Callers to National Dementia Helpline Are Men

Men with a diagnosis of dementia or men who are caring for a person with dementia could be missing out on vital support and information as figures show that only one in five callers to the National Dementia Helpline are men. 

Figures compiled by Alzheimer’s Australia, which provides the free National Dementia Helpline service, show that, in addition to 78 per cent of total callers to the service being female, there are almost four times as many daughters ringing the Helpline as sons, and almost three times as many female partners than male partners calling.

The National Dementia Helpline, funded by the Federal Government, is an information and support telephone, email and web-based voice call service available across Australia. It is for people with dementia, their carers, families and friends, health and aged care professionals, or people who are concerned about their own, or a loved one’s, cognitive decline.

Alzheimer’s Australia Vic CEO, Maree McCabe said with an estimated 70 per cent of people with dementia living in the community, there are many men who are either caring for a partner, spouse, parent, friend or sibling, or who are living with a diagnosis themselves, who may not be getting access to all the support and resources they need.

“Managing dementia is not easy,” Ms McCabe said.

“But a phone call could really make all the difference. Our trained and professional staff can provide you with a wealth of information and access to a range of support services, no matter where you live across Victoria.

“Our staff are available to talk to you over the phone or online in a variety of ways.

“Take action and call today to access a range of information and support programs for managing what can be a very tough, challenging and, at times, lonely journey,” Ms McCabe said.

Rob Trinca, living with dementia, said the National Dementia Helpline gave he and his wife support in how to tell their children about his diagnosis.

“It is a great place to start with any dementia-related question. 

"Talking with the National Dementia Helpline links you with others affected by dementia and professionals supporting people with dementia," Mr Trinca said.

Of the estimated 353,800 people with dementia in Australia, about 60 per cent are women.

The National Dementia Helpline operates Monday – Friday, from 9:00am to 5:00pm, excluding public holidays. It can be contacted on 1800 100 500 or by email on onlinesupport@alzheimers.org.au.

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