September – Dementia Awareness Month
As we near the end of Dementia Awareness Month, the theme, ‘You are not alone;’ continues to resonate, with more than 413,000 Australians living with the condition. Thousands more are diagnosed with dementia each year. This is both challenging and confronting, especially as there is no cure.
Whilst the incidence of dementia is more prevalent with older ages, it can be experienced at a younger age, although this is less common.
Feeling unsupported and alone at such a difficult time can be very isolating. Being able to talk to someone who understands the issues that surround dementia is very important.
In its early stages, very close family members may simply wonder why a certain trait of personality seems more prevalent than it usually is for the person they know. It is not uniquely different behaviour, but more prominent aspects of a person’s usual personality. Hence, it can be difficult to distinguish normal interpersonal interactions with recognition that the person might have dementia.
There are many forms of dementia, and the experience of each individual is unique. For some, it is quite gradual; for others, it is more sudden in its impact. It can be difficult for an individual to distinguish between a natural loss of memory, or a degree of depression with similar symptoms. I encourage people to consider early any concern they have regarding their health and wellbeing and seek advice from their doctor. If necessary, be referred to a specialist medical professional.
Educating people in what to expect and how to deal with dementia is critical. Alzheimer’s Australia offers free seminars and excellent online resources to learn more about the condition, and supports people living with dementia and their carers. Visit the website https://sa.fightdementia.org.au/
I admire the families and carers who support their loved ones throughout this difficult journey, which can be devastatingly short or agonisingly long, depending on the type of dementia.
Family carers and friends become very significant supports, and this can be wearing over time. They may benefit from a period of respite, to refresh and recharge so that they can continue on in their caring role.
A recent research project funded by Resthaven through an Alzheimer’s Australia Research Foundation grant, aimed to improve understanding about the respite options that are available in the community. Called ‘ReThink Respite’, outcomes of the project are online resources to assist carers of people with dementia to access respite services more easily. Go to http://rethinkrespite.dementiaillawarra.com/