Raising awareness of dementia

With the World Alzheimer’s Day on 21 September bringing a spotlight onto dementia, I discussed this topic with Stephen Harding, Resthaven’s Dementia Advanced Practice Nurse.

It’s always good to have these open discussions and consider how one’s own life has been touched by dementia in some way.

A dementia diagnosis is both challenging and confronting, both for the individual and those close to them.

Some of the aspects of our discussion reminded me of the importance of support networks: sharing with family, where a person has this support, and friends.

The journey is unique for each person. There may be a sense of change in themselves and their day to day activity. This is more than some memory loss or ‘forgetfulness’, which is experienced by many.

Keeping to yourself can add anxiety and a sense of being alone and isolated, so it is very important to talk with your doctor, someone who understands the issues that surround dementia.

There are many types of dementia—which is an umbrella term for around 100 different forms that could cause cognitive impairment.

However, dementia is not the only cause of cognitive impairment, so a visit to the GP or Geriatrician is critical, as the impairment may be treatable. It is important to gain a diagnosis, then to manage it with the person’s support network. A diagnosis allows the individual to gain a measure of control, and plan for their future.

Educating people in what to expect and how to deal with dementia is vital, as is learning to understand the way in which a person can actively live with the prognosis and continue to engage and sustain their quality of life. Maintaining friendships, and keeping socially connected and engaged are important factors in reducing the risk of dementia.

A healthy lifestyle, such as exercising and being active, physically and mentally, healthy eating, keeping fluids up, controlling diabetes and hypertension, keeping weight in check, are all linked to reducing some of the health risks that emerge as we age, including dementia.

A message for us all is to consider the impact on our families and friends when there is a diagnosis of dementia.  Think about how we can be supportive, be present, and interact with people who are living with dementia, as well as their families and carers, in a way that encourages community relationships and support.

Be informed. Dementia Australia has a range of resources on their website: www.dementia.org.au.

Opinion piece by Richard Hearn
former CEO Resthaven Incorporated