The message from the United States and Europe is that governments must live within their means.

Advances in science and medical research and public health policies have meant that life expectancy for Australians is one of the highest in the world.

Dementia is not exclusively a problem of the developed world.

The message from the United States and Europe is that governments must live within their means.

Ageing means a loss of a number of skills over time.

And I believe that the best buy in public health today must be a combination of regular physical exercise and a healthy diet.

Greater public recognition will also be critical in encouraging prevention and early intervention, and more generally in building public support to meet the challenges of dementia.