Rapid Access Service - Older Persons Mental Health Service expands operations to the North West\
24 Jun 2025
In 2025, there are an estimated 10,900 people living with all forms of dementia. This figure is projected to increase to an estimated 16,500 by 2054 with a projected percentage change of 51%.
With the prevalence of dementia set to rise in both Tasmania and Australia, it becomes increasingly necessary that comprehensive services and programs are provided for people living with dementia, their carers, and their families.
The Rapid Access Service (RAS), which has been providing essential specialist in-reach service to consumers in Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs) in North Tasmania, has now officially expanded its operation to the North West of the state.
Rapid Access Service is a specialist in-reach service providing rapid assistance to consumers in Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs) who are experiencing dementia with severe to extreme Behavioural & Psychological Symptoms in Dementia (BPSD).
Behaviours and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) refers to a range of non-cognitive symptoms common among people with dementia. Symptoms may include delusions, irritability, hallucinations, agitation, anxiety, depression, appetite and eating changes, apathy and sleep disturbances.
The RAS Pilot commenced in the North in January 2024 and following the successful evaluation has expanded into the Northwest Devonport and Latrobe LGA areas.
The program aims to streamline access to care and specialist service, reduce the rate of ED presentations and further improve the quality of life for consumers. The service provides assessment, intervention, medication, management, education, and support to RACF residents and staff.
Since it’s commencement in 2024, the team has provided in reach support to more than 50 people within the participating RACFs.
This expansion aims to meet the growing need for community-based support and to improve the quality of life for older people living with dementia.
Data Source: Dementia Australia (2023) Dementia Prevalence Data 2024-2054
