Dementia
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Dementia is the term used to describe the symptoms of a number of illnesses that affect the brain. The most common cause is Alzheimer's disease, but there are other causes, including Parkinson's disease. Common early symptoms include memory loss, confusion, personality changes, apathy and withdrawal. Early diagnosis is important to help with early treatment, planning and support. Medications might help some symptoms of dementia, but there is no cure.
Information in your language
Information in your language about
- Dementia - Alzheimer's disease
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia in Australia, accounting for about two thirds of cases.
- Dementia - different types
Dementia is more common in people over 65, but it is not a normal part of ageing.
- Down syndrome and Alzheimer's
Studies of the brains of people with Down syndrome reveal that, by the age of 40, almost all develop the brain changes characteristic of Alzheimer's disease.
- Dementia - early signs
A correct diagnosis of dementia at an early stage is important for early treatment, support and planning for the future.
- Dementia - mental health changes
Depression makes it harder for a person with dementia to remember things and enjoy their life.
- Dementia explained
Dementia is not a normal part of ageing and can happen to anybody.
- Services to support people with dementia and their carers
Services are available in Victoria for people with dementia, and their partners, carers and friends.
- Dementia - advice for families
The most important way to help young people cope with dementia is to talk openly and be willing to listen.
- Dementia - carers and activities
Participating in suitable activities can help a person with dementia to achieve purpose and pleasure.
- Dementia - coping with placement
Helping the person with dementia adjust to residential care can be a new role for carers.
- Dementia - residential care
Deciding to place a person with dementia into residential care is a difficult decision.
- Dementia - support for people who live alone
Caring for someone with dementia who lives alone can be difficult, but support is available
- Dementia - taking care of carers
Caring for a person with dementia will become more difficult if the carer is worn down.
- Services to support people with dementia and their carers
Services are available in Victoria for people with dementia, and their partners, carers and friends.
- Dementia - activities and exercise
Participating in suitable activities can help a person with dementia to achieve purpose and pleasure.
- Dementia - behaviour changes
Providing a calm environment for the person with dementia can help to reduce the impact of changes to behaviour patterns.
- Dementia - communication
Carers need to pay attention to how they present themselves to the person with dementia.
- Dementia - continence issues
Incontinence may occur in people with dementia for many reasons.
- Dementia - driving and travelling
Some people with dementia may not recognise their declining ability to drive.
- Dementia - early planning
Planning ahead can make it easier for families and carers to manage the affairs of a person with dementia.
- Dementia - eating
A number of strategies can help encourage healthy and nutritious eating for people with dementia.
- Dementia - emotional changes
People with dementia continue to need loving, safe relationships and caring touch.
- Dementia - hygiene
People with dementia can forget about washing themselves or changing their clothes.
- Dementia - safety issues
Safety checks and modifications around the home can help ensure the safety of a person with dementia.
Reviewed on: 05-09-2023