Parliament on Wednesday passed a bill aimed at supporting people with dementia and enabling them to live with hope, a move that comes as Japan confronts a host of challenges related to its rapidly graying population.

The health ministry expects the number of people with dementia to reach 7 million by 2025.

The law, designed to help people with dementia “maintain their dignity” and live as “respected members of society,” stipulates that measures should be taken by both the central and local governments.

Passed unanimously during a plenary session on Wednesday, it also mandates that the government establish a headquarters to promote policies supporting those with dementia, to be headed by the prime minister. That entity will hold meetings with relevant parties such as those with dementia and their families.

The law also calls for efforts to raise awareness about dementia and preventative measures, including promoting activities in the community that may contribute to prevention as well as providing health and welfare services to both patients and their family members.

Measures will also include improved medical facilities to help with access to care regardless of where patients live and the development and dissemination of products that can make daily life easier for those with dementia.

Over 6 million people in Japan are estimated to be living with dementia, according to the health ministry. It is projected that 7 million — or one out of five — elderly people will have dementia by 2025.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno called the law “remarkably significant” on Wednesday morning.

“We will continue to take various actions in line with the law’s intentions ... to promote dementia measures toward the realization of a symbiotic society,” Matsuno said.

There is no cure for dementia. According to the World Health Organization, more than 55 million people have dementia globally, with nearly 10 million new cases each year.