Australians are being encouraged to get active for both body and mind, with Dementia Australia joining forces with the Australian Masters Games to promote brain health and raise vital funds for people living with dementia.
Dementia Australia has been named the official charity partner for the 20th Australian Masters Games, which will be held in Canberra from October 18 to 25.
The partnership highlights the growing body of evidence showing that regular physical activity, social connection and community participation can help support brain health and reduce the risk of developing dementia.
Dementia Australia Chief Executive Officer Professor Tanya Buchanan said the collaboration was an opportunity to inspire Australians of all ages to take positive steps towards protecting their brain health.
“We know that regular physical activity, social engagement and community participation all play a critical role in supporting brain health,” Professor Buchanan said.
“Research shows that addressing 14 modifiable risk factors, including physical inactivity and social isolation, could prevent or delay up to 45 per cent of dementia cases.
“It’s never too early or too late to make changes that support your brain health and overall wellbeing.”
Australian Masters Games General Manager Adam Drinkwell said the partnership reflected the shared values of both organisations.
“We’re proud to partner with Dementia Australia to highlight how sport keeps both body and mind healthy,” he said.
“We hope participants will get behind our charity partner and help support such an important cause.”
More than 433,000 Australians are currently living with dementia, including around 29,000 people with younger onset dementia. Without significant intervention, that figure is expected to increase substantially over the coming decades.
Among those helping to raise awareness is Dementia Australia Advocate Anthony “The Wall” Pollock, who lives with younger onset dementia and recently represented Australia at the 2025 Walking Football World Cup in Sweden.
Mr Pollock will also compete at the Australian Masters Games, using the event to encourage conversations about dementia and show others that life can continue after diagnosis.
“You can have a good life with dementia if you put the effort in and have the support,” he said.
“I plan to utilise what I’m doing to spread the word through the walking football community.”
The Australian Masters Games is a week-long celebration of sport and community, featuring more than 50 sports for competitors of all ages and abilities.
Funds raised throughout the event will help Dementia Australia continue delivering information, education and support services for people living with dementia.
