Advocacy

Dementia mate wareware is a health sector priority that can no longer be ignored.

In 2025, Alzheimers NZ advocates for around 83,000 people with dementia mate wareware and their whānau in Aotearoa New Zealand so they are heard, valued and supported.  This number is set to increase to 170,000 by 2050.

We need fair funding from Government for local services as many of them struggle to survive, and investment and implementation of the Dementia Mate Wareware Action Plan. These are some of the key steps to mitigate the worst impacts of this health condition.

Ahead of the 2026 General Election, we’re asking all political parties to act now, because dementia affects thousands of Kiwi families and needs to be a top health priority. 

Our main goals are to put the  Action Plan into action, fund local support services fairly and create a health strategy for older people.  

To support our advocacy, we have position papers to outline what we want Government to act on. We also have easy talking points to support your conversations with MPs, media and others about these important changes.  

Our work is underpinned by the Dementia Declaration which was developed by the Alzheimers NZ Lived Experience Advisory Group.

Keep up-to-date with our latest developments through our news, blogs and podcasts or subscribe to our mailing list.