In March 2025, multiple member associations in the Asia Pacific region conducted and participated in crucial online webinars to drive forward knowledge and expertise, helping to improve the lives of those living with dementia in the region. In early March, the Japan Dementia International Exchange Platform hosted a learning webinar administrated by ADI member association for Japan, Alzheimer’s Association Japan, a webinar that welcomed speakers from ADI member associations and experts from India, New Zealand, Philippines, Thailand and Taiwan. Meanwhile, Dementia Australia also hosted a national focus live panel discussion around the vital role of Allied Health Professionals in dementia care this month.
On 9 March, The Japan Dementia International Exchange Platform hosted a learning webinar administrated by ADI member association for Alzheimer’s Association Japan (AAJ) supported by Kirin Welfare Foundation, the webinar provided a platform for international expertise from dementia associations and people living with dementia in the Asia Pacific region. The event welcomed approximately 80 participants from Japan and other countries in the region.
Alongside this webinar, the Japan Dementia Exchange Platform has launched a website to host the stories and experiences of people living with dementia, dementia experts and more.
Learn about Alzheimer’s Association Japan
The event also included ADI Asia Pacific members from India, New Zealand, Philippines, Thailand and Taiwan, as well as ADI’s Asia Pacific Regional Director, DY Suharya, to present their insights on dementia care as well as shining a spotlight on the experiences of people living with dementia. This event marks AAJ’s achievement of fostering further international collaboration within the Asia Pacific region by sharing knowledge on services and successful care strategies, which can support the improvement of quality of care for people with dementia and family carers.
DY said:
Whether they are international or nationally focused, such as the ones we have seen this month from AAJ and Dementia Australia are a great way to communicate, share best practices and encourage open dialogues. Experts sharing knowledge to new audiences empowers advocacy efforts and future innovation that ensure better support for people living with dementia in the Asia Pacific.
Dementia Australia, in conjunction with Occupational Therapy Australia and Speech Pathology Australia hosted the latest installment of the Dementia Practice Webinar Series, focusing on ‘Dementia and Allied Health’. The webinar called for Australians living with dementia to have access to clear, appropriately funded pathways for allied health support and services.
Learn about Dementia Australia
Allied health services provide significant benefits to people living with dementia and support them to maintain their physical and cognitive health, independence and wellbeing for as long as possible. It is vital that people in Australia have timely, ongoing and flexible access to these early intervention services and supports. All three bodies participated in webinar’s expert panel, as well as including dementia advocates with lived experience to offer insights on the important role Allied Health plays in providing support and care for people living with dementia.