Alzheimer’s Australia estimates there are currently 1211 people in Bathurst living with dementia, tipped to rise to 2681 by 2050 – an increase of 121 per cent.

And startling new research has found that people with dementia – and their carers – are significantly more lonely than the general public.

Findings of the study have been released to mark the start of Dementia Awareness Month on Thursday.

Alzheimer’s Australia NSW CEO John Watkins said the survey highlighted the distress that impacts people living with dementia and their families and carers.

“This research backs up what we are told repeatedly by our clients, which is that when they received a diagnosis of dementia, friendships and some family relationships suddenly fell away,” Mr Watkins.

“We believe a large part of that is because of the general lack of awareness and understanding of dementia, people simply don’t know how to interact with their friend or loved one with dementia.

“Treating people with the same respect, kindness, inclusiveness and thoughtfulness you always have is what makes a difference to them.

“They are still the same arent, sibling, partner, relative, friend as they were before the diagnosis. They just may need a little bit more time, understanding and support.”’

The expected spike in dementia cases is a story likely to be repeated across the Central West.

Alzheimer’s Australia says there are currently 1288 people in Orange living with dementia, expected to grow to 2596 by 2050 (up 102 per cent) while the 1228 dementia cases in Dubbo is tipped to double to 2451.

“There are more than 353,000 Australians with dementia and an estimated 1.2 million people involved in the care of someone with dementia,” Mr Watkins said.

“People with dementia, or people who are caring for someone with dementia, are not alone. There are people who are there to help.”