Dementia caregivers report low wellbeing despite moments of joy
A new Australian Institute of Health and Welfare survey shows most dementia carers experience poor wellbeing, though some find joy in caregiving.
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare released its first Living with Dementia survey during Dementia Action Week, covering data collected from May 2025 to January. The study included 1,648 carers and 266 individuals living with dementia, examining care demands, wellbeing and access to services. Findings reveal that roughly two-thirds of carers rate their wellbeing as low, versus about one-third of people with dementia.
About half of carers provide at least 40 hours of care weekly, and a third exceed 70 hours. More than 60% feel overwhelmed, and around 50% report strained family relationships. Among people with dementia, 44% feel frustrated and a similar share feel their diagnosis reduces their sense of control. Experts stress the need to support carers as part of dementia care, while some carers, like former pathologist Debra Graves, say moments of joy still exist.
Why it matters
The survey highlights the heavy burden on dementia carers, underscoring the need for better support and resources.
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