Dementia care pioneer named NSW Senior Australian of the Year

Dementia treatment pioneer Professor Henry Brodaty AO is the 2026 Senior Australian of the Year for NSW.

Professor Henry Brodaty is transforming the diagnosis, care and prevention of dementia – improving countless lives, both in Australia and around the world.

This year also marks 50 years of dedicated service within our District for Henry. Professor Brodaty is a researcher, clinician, policy advisor and strong advocate for older people's mental health.

Chris Hay, Director of Mental Health Services for the District said Professor Brodaty is an inspiration.

"For more than five decades, Henry’s pioneering work has transformed dementia care and improved countless lives. His leadership, compassion and dedication continue to inspire us all,” said Chris.

In 1972, Henry’s father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at just 52 years old. At that time, dementia was poorly understood and often ignored. People living with dementia and carers had little support and no pathway forward. His father’s experience catalysed a lifetime of work that not only revolutionised Henry’s own field of psychiatry, but also the lives of people living with dementia and their families.

In 2012, Henry co-founded the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing and led internationally significant research that enhanced the world’s understanding of risk and prevention. His large Maintain Your Brain trial demonstrated that straightforward, cost-effective, targeted interventions can profoundly delay onset and even prevent dementia.

Henry, 78, is a leader who has reshaped dementia care from every angle as he navigates toward a future where dementia is better treated and prevented.

Published 18 November 2025