What is dementia?
Dementia is a brain condition. Dementia is not a normal part of getting older, and it isn’t one specific disease.
The effects of dementia vary for each person. Generally, dementia affects your mood, memory, thinking and behaviour. Common early symptoms include memory loss, confusion, personality changes, apathy and withdrawal.
Dementia can happen to anybody, but it is more common for people 65 and over. The Better Health includes further information about dementia risks, diagnosis and support.
Around two-thirds of people living with dementia live in the community. Unfortunately, a lack of knowledge and understanding of dementia may lead to people living with dementia to experience stigma and discrimination in the community.
Watch Natalie’s story on the Dementia Australia
Dementia Action Week
Run by Dementia Australia, Dementia Action from 16 to 22 September 2024 provides an opportunity for everyone to build their knowledge and understanding.
Dementia Australia encourages you to take action by:
- Creating opportunities for people living with dementia to contribute so they stay connected and engaged in their communities, hobbies and groups. Take the time to find out how someone might like to get involved and the support they may need.
- Listening to people living with dementia with respect and an open mind. Body language can show that you are engaged and present. Invite someone with dementia to share their ideas, take time to find things you may have in common and be present.
- Make your environment . From design and signage to lighting and quiet spaces, there are many actions you can take to make your space dementia-friendly.
- Look out for people in your community. Find ways to connect and introduce yourself to people in your community. Simple gestures like saying ‘hello’ and showing kindness can make a big difference.
Learn more on the Dementia Australia .
Victorian Seniors Festival events
This October, learn more about dementia or access support at Victorian Seniors Festival events:
- ‘Diagnosis and Treatment in a New Era for Dementia’, presented by The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health
- ‘Living longer, healthier lives – medical research to stop Parkinson’s disease and Dementia’, presented by The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research
- ‘The Vessel’ play on the story of an older woman living with dementia in aged care, presented by Mount Alexander Shire Council and Castlemaine Community House
- A living with dementia morning tea in Chelsea at Longbeach Place
- The Forget-Me-Not Café in Tooradin, providing an opportunity for carers and their loved ones living with dementia to explore, engage, connect and socialise with others.
View more Victorian Seniors Festival events on the online events calendar.
Reviewed 15 September 2024