Dementia is a major public health challenge. The number of people in Sweden living with the condition is steadily rising, putting pressure on healthcare systems. At the same time, research on dementia diagnosis and risk reduction is advancing rapidly.
In response, the Swedish government announced an updated national dementia strategy on 23 January 2025, covering healthcare, dental care and social services. The strategy is based on two key principles:
- Dementia is not a normal part of ageing; young people are also affected, and new knowledge must be integrated into healthcare.
- People with dementia should be able to live dignified, meaningful lives, with access to proper support and care.
The strategy introduces four healthcare goals:
- Interventions should be tailored to individuals’ needs.
- Efforts must be coordinated, promote health and prevent illness.
- Care should be evidence-based.
- Relatives must receive adequate support for sustainable family caregiving.