General News
4 June, 2025
Brainstorm for dementia
ARARAT’s Brain Hub took place last week at Gordon Street Reserve, providing locals with an important opportunity to ask questions and learn more about dementia.
In 2025, it is estimated that 433,300 Australians will be living with dementia, a number that continues to grow.
The Brain Hub was a collaborative initiative involving Ararat Neighbourhood House, Dementia Australia, Budja Budja Aboriginal Cooperative, Grampians Health, East Grampians Health Service, and other local partners.
Ararat Neighbourhood House Manager Teli Kaur said the event aimed to support those impacted by the condition.
“The community event was designed to provide information, education, and support to individuals affected by dementia, to local residents and healthcare providers,” Ms Kaur said.
Attendees had the opportunity to engage with a variety of presentations.
While around 30 people attended, the smaller crowd didn’t stop deep engagement.
“The response was really great. Even though we didn't have as many community members, those who were there asked so many questions to each speaker,” she said.
She also emphasised the importance of local access to dementia education.
Ms Kaur also highlighted the broader risk factors associated with dementia, breaking the common perception that it only affects the elderly.
“Dementia not only comes with age, it comes with other various things like lifestyle. So it can come in any age group, it's not just after your 80s,” she said.
The Brain Hub event reflects Ararat’s growing commitment to public health education, helping to ensure individuals, families, and service providers are better equipped to understand and manage dementia within the community.