Policies for people with dementia across OECD countries

Across the OECD, on average, 61 people per 1 000 population aged 65 and over were estimated to be living with dementia in 2023. This policy review provides an overview of the most recent dementia policies across 29 OECD countries and changes in the past decade. The analysis suggests that national dementia policies increasingly emphasise prevention through modifiable risks, early diagnosis, and non-pharmaceutical treatment approaches. The paper summarises approaches towards improving awareness and limited efforts to improve diagnostics. Developments in managing behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, along with related workforce training, are more prominent. Additionally, services and support for dementia caregivers and progress towards more coordinated and inclusive care pathways are present in most national strategies and plans.