Dear editor,
An often-used quote is “shutting the gate after the horse has bolted”, which accurately describes the sentiments expressed in ‘SA parents uniting in phone-free pact for kids’ (The Advertiser, September 29).
Whilst the majority of parents acknowledge the many negative consequences of the growing screen addiction being experienced by young and developing minds, they must also accept greater responsibility for actually permitting this social phenomenon to occur.
A home is where standards and expectations should be set for the behaviour, beliefs and attitudes of children as they grow and develop into young adults; however, unfortunately, extreme social pressure has made the application of this parental responsibility even more difficult to enforce.
Introducing external requirements, such as the new social media laws, monitored by government agencies, can not alone address this important issue and will require a unified approach, which will rely heavily on significant parental involvement that can be applied without question or interference from outside influences.
The fight to reverse this harmful impact of technology begins at home.
Ian Macgowan, Ceduna
Dementia support appreciated
Dear editor,
An immense thank you to everyone who was involved and spread the word during 2025 Dementia Action Week from September 15 to 21.
Across Australia, individuals and organisations supported our campaign ‘Nobody can do it alone’, encouraging everyone in the community to reach out and reconnect with someone in their life affected by dementia.
Social isolation and loneliness are, unfortunately, all too commonly experienced by many living with dementia.
And, with the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reporting this month that dementia is now the leading cause of death for all Australians, chances are that you know someone impacted and can help be part of their support system – so that none of us have to face dementia alone.
On behalf of the estimated 433,300 Australians living with dementia and the 1.7 million people involved in their care, thank you for showing your support this Dementia Action Week.
While Dementia Action Week is only one week each year, the conversation and action to eliminate the lack of understanding that leads to stigma and discrimination continues year-round.
For information and tips on how you can continue working towards a dementia-friendly future, please visit dementia.org.au/DementiaActionWeek
For support any time, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Merran Kelsall, Dementia Australia chairperson
