Caring with compassion. Supporting Australians living with Alzheimer’s

Each year on September 21, World Alzheimer’s Day brings global attention to one of the most pressing healthcare challenges of our time.

With more than 400,000 Australians currently living with dementia — the majority of whom have Alzheimer’s disease — the need for skilled, compassionate and consistent care has never been more urgent. And while medical research continues to advance, the day-to-day lives of those living with Alzheimer’s are deeply shaped by the people who care for them. At Health Plus People, we recognise and celebrate the healthcare and aged care professionals whose empathy and expertise make all the difference, not just on World Alzheimer’s Day, but every day.

Understanding Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, a group of conditions characterised by progressive decline in memory, cognitive function, communication and behaviour. While the condition affects everyone differently, it often brings significant challenges for both the person diagnosed and their loved ones. Supporting people living with Alzheimer’s requires more than just clinical knowledge. It demands patience, adaptability, cultural awareness and a deep commitment to preserving the person’s dignity, identity and connection to the world around them.

Why the right workforce matters

Aged care and health services that support people with Alzheimer’s rely heavily on the dedication and skill of frontline workers — including nurses, personal care assistants and support staff. When care professionals are well-trained, consistent and culturally responsive, they create an environment that reduces distress, promotes routine, and builds trust. This kind of workforce continuity is especially important for those with memory loss and confusion, who may find unfamiliar faces or settings disorienting. At Health Plus People, we work closely with aged care facilities and healthcare providers across Australia to place professionals who are not only qualified but also deeply aligned with a compassionate, person-centred approach to dementia care.

Small actions, lasting impact

Supporting someone with Alzheimer’s often comes down to the simplest of gestures — making eye contact, offering choices, using a calm tone, or gently redirecting distress. When care workers are supported, valued and equipped with the right training, they are empowered to show up with patience and empathy every shift. And for the people in their care, this consistency is what transforms the experience from clinical to truly human.

Honouring those who care

On World Alzheimer’s Day, we honour every care professional who brings empathy, resilience and humanity to their work. You are not just helping people live with Alzheimer’s — you are preserving stories, nurturing connection, and making each day safer, calmer and more meaningful. Because compassionate care isn’t an extra — it’s everything.