Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is an evergreen shrub which was esteemed by the ancients for its aromatic quality and medicinal uses, which included treatment of disorders of the mind.

It is therefore appropriate, based on the association of the plant with memory from ancient times through to today, for Rosemary to be chosen as the name and symbol for an initiative in memory support.

Alzheimer’s disease, and other related forms of dementia, will impact on at least one in every four people in South Australia. On current figures, around 1,500 older people in this state are likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease each year. However, many thousands more are affected as they take on the role of caring for someone they love who has dementia.

The Rosemary Foundation for Memory Support Inc was created to help combat the problem and the tragedy of dementia in our society.