OUR society needs to become more dementia aware.
As a Dementia Expert I’m frequently asked, “What is dementia?”
My response often shocks. I answer that dementia is not a normal part of ageing, that it’s not a disease and that people in their 40’s and 50’s can develop dementia. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, overall dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia, and it’s the leading cause of death of Australian women.
As confronting as this may be, these are the facts.
Dementia Australia estimates that in 2021, about 479,000 Australians have dementia. This number is increasing, with a new case reported approximately every six minutes. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare believes that 2 in 3 people with dementia live in the community, many with limited community support.
Dementia is increasing in Australia, yet awareness and understanding amongst the general public about it is alarmingly low. Researchers have discovered barriers to dementia awareness in the community, including outdated beliefs and fear of discussing dementia because of the stigma often reinforced by negative media stereotypes.
Like everyone, people with dementia want to be understood, however poor community understanding of dementia can result in significant levels of distress, rejection and social isolation for people with dementia and their carers, resulting in a decline in the quality of life of both.
However, we can change this situation. I believe that community support and public attitudes towards dementia can be transformed through education. The University of Tasmania offers a suite of online university quality FREE public dementia courses.
Beginning in February, their short ‘Understanding Dementia’ course examines dementia, how dementia impacts the person with dementia, and explores the available treatments and care options that improve quality of life for people with dementia, their families and caregivers. Find this excellent course by googling UTAS Understanding Dementia.
More information about dementia is also available from my YouTube channel ‘Ask a Dementia Champion’.
Next month we will explore whether dementia is preventable. You will be pleasantly surprised to know what the current scientific literature suggests.
Disclosure – No Medical Advice: Information in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by a Medical Practitioner.