In 2030, it is believed that as many as 550,000 people will be living with dementia in Australia. Dementia refers to a collection of symptoms that impacts the brain. Contrary to popular belief, it is not the term used for a singular condition. It can impact everything from –
- ThinkingÂ
- Behavior
- The ability to perform certain tasks on a daily basis
Dementia impacts brain function to the point where it will often prevent people from living a typical social or working life. This is why it is important to ensure that individuals with dementia can access the right support and care options.
Diagnosis
If you believe that you or a loved one is showcasing symptoms of dementia, then it’s important to ensure that you do seek out a diagnosis. A dementia diagnosis will always change your life. For this reason, many people will avoid a diagnosis for as long as possible. This is a mistake as it means that the condition has time to progress without treatment. The most common symptom which will often lead to a diagnosis is memory loss.
Individuals with dementia will often experience changes to their long and short-term memory. This could include periods where individuals struggle to remember who they are or where they are. Memory issues can get progressively worse as the condition develops.
The Cognitive Dementia and Memory Service (CDAMS) is a multidisciplinary, diagnostic, education, and referral service that is intended to help individuals experiencing changes to their cognitive ability or memory loss. The publicly funded solution is the best option if you are experiencing changes like this. However, you may also want to consider using a private geriatrician or clinic.
Live In Home Care
In-home care support options are available to individuals across Australia who wish to continue living in the comfort of their own homes while still receiving the helping hand that they need. In-home care solutions are always focused on preserving an individual’s independence while also helping them to access the best quality of life. Research shows that the right standard of care may also slow the progression of dementia, providing individuals with the social interaction and levels of engagement that they need to remain cognitively healthy.
In-home care support can also include altering and adjusting the home environment to ensure that it is more suitable for an individual living with dementia. This can include removing some of the hazards and risks that are present in a standard home. The kitchen may be changed to ensure that it is safer for an individual to use if they are experiencing changes to their memory.
Depending on the severity of their condition, an individual with dementia may also need support with daily tasks and processes. For instance, an in-home carer could provide support, helping them get dressed in the morning or administering their medication at certain points throughout the day.
Live in-home care should be completely flexible as per the needs of the individual experiencing dementia. An individualistic, personalized service is key to ensuring that someone with dementia remains happy and comfortable in their home.
Care Facilities
In certain cases, it may not be possible for an individual with dementia to continue living at home. If that’s the case, then the alternative would be a residential care home. Residential care homes specifically designed for individuals with memory issues or cognitive conditions are available across Australia.
These facilities are designed with particular environments intended to help keep individuals with dementia safe. At the same time, the care homes have a wide range of facilities that are intended to keep an individual with dementia active and alert. This includes social activities, physical exercise, and a focus on specific hobbies or pastimes that an individual will enjoy.
Medication
In some cases, medication may be recommended as a form of treatment for individuals living with dementia. Dementia-specific medications may be recommended to treat the symptoms of these conditions. These medications are subsidized by the Australian Government under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
Other medications may also be recommended to treat symptoms and conditions related to the initial diagnosis. For instance, an individual with dementia may struggle with depression, agitation, or insomnia. Various studies have found that individuals with dementia are more likely to experience these conditions. The right medication can provide relief and help ensure that individuals will be able to achieve the best quality of life.
Help For Family Members
A dementia diagnosis will also impact family members. If you are impacted by a loved one being diagnosed with dementia, you can explore options like the National Dementia Helpline. This is available Australia-wide and completely confidential. It is intended to support people with dementia as well as their family members and their partners. You will be able to discuss your concerns and your challenges with a professional.
Funding Options
Are you worried about the cost of dementia support in Australia? If so, then it’s important to be aware that funding options are available. For instance, you may be able to access NDIS-funded packages if you or a loved one is experiencing younger onset dementia or if you are under the age of 65 when you register for the NDIS. You just need to make sure that you find the right NDIS registered care provider that can deliver the right support that you can trust.
You may also want to explore respite care options. Respite care will provide relief to an individual who is looking after a loved one with dementia themself without professional support. It can provide you with the time you need to regroup and ensure that you can continue to provide the right support to your loved one. Caring for an individual with dementia will always be challenging. It’s imperative that you do receive the break you need.
