The Wicking Dementia Centre was established in 2008 and is health education and research flagship at the University of Tasmania. The centre is at the forefront of translational research and is dedicated to enhancing the lives of those living with dementia through a blend of cutting-edge research, comprehensive education, and active community engagement.
Understanding dementia
At the core of the Centre’s mission is a deep commitment to understanding the diseases that cause dementia, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative conditions. The Wicking Dementia Centre’s researchers dive into the complexities of these diseases, exploring their underlying mechanisms and seeking ways to slow or prevent their progression. This crucial research lays the groundwork for developing new treatments and interventions that can significantly improve the quality of life for those living with dementia.
Education
Creating and offering a variety of educational programs designed to increase knowledge and understanding of dementia among healthcare professionals, carers, and the general public. These programs include free online courses, such as the popular Understanding Dementia and Preventing Dementia MOOCs, which provide accessible, high-quality education to people worldwide. We continue to offer online university award courses, based on the latest research, that are suitable for everyone at any stage of their career.
Community engagement
Through initiatives like the ISLAND Project, which studies dementia risk factors and promotes resilience-building strategies. These efforts raise awareness about dementia and encourage proactive measures to reduce its impact. This community-focused approach ensures that the Wicking Dementia Centre’s work is not only scientifically rigorous but also socially relevant and impactful.
Supporting carers
Carers play a vital role in dementia care, and we’re here to support them. We launched the Dementia Respite Education and Mentoring (DREAM) project, which provides carers with the education and support they need to deliver high-quality respite care. By empowering carers, we help alleviate some of the impacts associated with caregiving, improving the overall well-being of both carers and those they care for.
Collaborative hub
A space where researchers and global specialists work together to advance progress in understanding, preventing, and caring for dementia. Our collective efforts are paving the way for a brighter future for those living with this challenging condition. The Wicking Dementia Centre offers world-class online education based on the latest evidence, contributing to the local, national and global aged care workforce and community by offering courses suitable for everyone at any stage of their career or education.
Statistics
- Globally - A new case of dementia arises somewhere in the world every 3 seconds * World Alzheimer Report 2019
- Nationally - Every day in Australia, two people are diagnosed with MND and two people die from the disease. More than 2,300 Australians are thought to be living with MND at any one time. *More about MND, published by MND Australia
- Globally - Parkinson’s is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world with 10 million currently affected according to the World Health Organisation.
- Globally - There are currently estimated to be over 55 million people worldwide living with dementia. The number of people affected is set to rise to 139 million by 2050, with the greatest increases in low- and middle-income countries * World Alzheimer Report 2019
- Nationally - In 2024 it is estimated there are more than 421,000 people living with all forms of dementia in Australia. This figure is projected to increase to more than 812,500 by 2054. * Dementia Australia 2024
Annual Reports
To hear more about our achievements, download our annual reports: