Dementia
I am having memory problems
Early diagnosis is important. It can help you and your carer to understand what is happening and why, and to get the support and services you need.
If you are concerned about yourself or someone you know experiencing symptoms of memory loss or confusion it is important to have a conversation with your GP. They may organise some tests and you may be referred to specialists such as a geriatrician, psychogeriatrician or neurologist for further assessment and diagnosis.
- Memory Problems: Information for people with Dementia and their carers
- CDPC: Dementia Consumer Guide
- Dementia Choices
Dementia Apps
- Forward with Dementia – practical information and tools for healthcare professionals and patients
- My Dementia Companion – practical dementia tool to guide professionals and carers through the dementia journey
Facing Dementia together patient resource to learn about the signs, recognise them in yourself or others, and start a conversation about visiting a GP to get help.
Dementia support and carer support
Dementia Australia Services
- National Dementia Helpline – Free 24 hour telephone service providing information and advice to people with dementia and their friends and family and health and aged care workers. They can also connect to Dementia Australia and community support services and program and discuss government support, including My Aged Care, NDIS, Carer Gateway and DBMAS.
Phone 1800 100500.Webchat: dementia.org.au/helpline/webchat. Operating hours Mon – Fri 8am-8pm. - Post diagnostic support program: 6 sessions over 12 months to enhance understanding, plan support and plan and prepare for changes
- Individual and family based Counselling support – face to face, on the phone or via videoconferencing
- Living with Dementia group program – Interactive program provides an overview of dementia and how to proceed after a diagnosis. It covers coping with change, relationships, and communication, planning for the future, and staying healthy.
- Library of resources – including factsheets, books, ebooks and video content
- Nightingale Program – offered free of charge, this is a specialist nurse-led support and palliative care service promoting choice, wellbeing and forward planning for people living with dementia
Local Support Services
- Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Service (DBMAS) 24 hour over the phone advice when there are complex behaviours that are stressful for a Carer to manage. They can help the Carer work out strategies and access appropriate medical care. Phone 1800 699 799
- Proveda Northern Sydney Dementia Advisory Service provides advice and assistance to people with dementia and their families and can link them with other people with dementia and their carers. Phone 1300 002 26
Supporting Carers
- Northern Sydney Local Health District – Carer Support Service
Call on: 02 9462 9488 - Carer Gateway
Call on: 1800 422 737
Carer Gateway is a national online and phone service that provides practical information and resources to support carers. The interactive service finder helps carers connect to local support services.
How do I reduce my risk?
Dementia Australia: Reduce your risk
Dementia Australia: Healthy Brain, Healthy Life Booklet
Local Dementia-friendly Councils and Communities
Dementia-friendly cafes and support groups promote social inclusivity for those living with dementia, as well as their friends, relatives and carers. Those who live with dementia can often feel isolated and lonely so these spaces have been created to encourage people with shared experiences to meet.
Get in touch with your council or local Dementia Alliance to access a number of local resources for older people and those living with dementia and their carers.