New Zealand Faces Dementia Crisis as Cases Expected to Double

New Zealand is confronting a significant health challenge, with warnings that the country is “dangerously unprepared” for a projected surge in dementia cases. According to Alzheimers New Zealand, the number of individuals living with dementia is set to more than double, escalating from approximately 83,000 today to an estimated 170,000 by 2050. Chief Executive Catherine Hall emphasized the urgent need for government intervention as current community-based services are described as “woefully underfunded and under-resourced.”

These alarming projections coincide with the release of the World Alzheimer Report 2025, which calls for increased investment in rehabilitative services. Such measures are critical for helping individuals maintain their independence and quality of life. Hall noted that while there are 17 dementia support organisations across New Zealand already providing essential services, the lack of adequate funding leaves both families and the healthcare system under immense strain.

“We are facing a national health emergency, yet New Zealand still lacks a funded, implemented plan to address it,” Hall stated. “Without political will and investment, the health system, the care sector, and thousands of families will continue to struggle unsupported.”

Call for Increased Funding

Alzheimers New Zealand has formally requested an additional $20 million in the 2026 Budget. This request highlights the stagnation of funding since 2022, when the government allocated $12 million over four years for the Dementia Mate Wareware Initiative. Hall asserted that enhanced financial support is essential to meet the goals outlined in the New Zealand Health Plan 2024–27, particularly in improving community care and managing the increasing prevalence of dementia.

In response to these concerns, Associate Health Minister Casey Costello acknowledged the seriousness of the issue. She confirmed her attendance at an upcoming summit hosted by Alzheimers New Zealand. Costello remarked that the government is not overlooking the crisis and highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at ensuring older New Zealanders can age well. These reforms focus on prevention, primary care, aged care, and community-based support.

“Dementia is an example of a condition where preventative work is important and successful,” she noted. “We want a system that allows people to live at home for as long as possible and provides better transitions between different types of care.”

The growing urgency around dementia care requires immediate action from both the government and community services. As the population ages and the number of affected individuals rises, the demand for effective strategies and support systems becomes increasingly critical. The future of dementia care in New Zealand hinges on timely investments and comprehensive planning to ensure that families and individuals receive the support they need.