Professor Tanya Buchanan
In this month’s Let’s Talk Ageing episode we hear from Chief Executive Officer of Dementia Australia, Professor Tanya Buchanan
Interview summary
Date: 12 August 2025
Tanya talks about ageing as an opportunity to continue to develop new skills and wisdom, which plays an important role in maintaining brain health and reducing the risk of dementia.
Read the interview
What does getting older mean to you, and why?
Getting older for me means the opportunity to continue to develop new skills and wisdom. I am also incredibly privileged to be surrounded by passionate and clever people in my work and home life who encourage me to continue to learn.
As I get older, I become increasingly aware of how much of a privilege it is to age and to age well. I am very focused on looking after my health, including my brain health, by staying physically and mentally active.
What do you see are the key challenges people face as they get older?
Dementia is the second leading cause of death for Australians, and provisional data suggests it may soon become the leading cause.
Our research shows there is a concerning lack of awareness and understanding about dementia in the community, with many Australians mistakenly believing dementia is a normal part of ageing.
This lack of understanding contributes to discrimination, stigma and isolation, and creates barriers to timely diagnosis and access to appropriate medical and social care.
Tell us about the work and research you’ve been doing to address these challenges.
It is never too early or too late to reduce dementia risk. While we cannot change ageing, genetics or family history, research shows that looking after our brain health can make a significant difference in reducing or delaying dementia.
Dementia Australia is calling for critical investment from the Australian Government to support a national conversation on brain health, alongside more targeted support for people impacted by dementia.
How can others get involved or support this work?
Brain health is important at all stages of life, but particularly from middle age when changes in the brain begin to occur.
Ways to support brain health include:
- Staying socially connected and enjoying the company of others
- Trying new activities, such as a different exercise routine
- Learning a new hobby, such as painting or sewing
For more information, visit Dementia Australia or contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.