Dementia Awareness Month
Each September, we embrace Dementia Awareness Month – a time dedicated to deepening our understanding of dementia and its impact on our loved ones and communities.
From September 16 to 22, Dementia Australia’s Dementia Action Week campaign is all about encouraging everyone to take the first step: learn more about dementia.
By learning more about dementia, we can discover meaningful ways to support our communities and make a real difference. It’s a wonderful opportunity to show compassion and become more informed, all while contributing to a cause that touches so many lives.
What is Dementia?
Understanding dementia is crucial for offering compassionate care to those living with this brain condition. Dementia is a term that refers to a range of symptoms caused by various disorders impacting the brain. It’s important to understand that dementia isn’t just a normal part of aging, nor is it a single disease. Instead, it’s a broad term that encompasses the effects of several different medical conditions on individuals.
These conditions include Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementias and more. The experience of dementia can vary widely from person to person, but it generally influences aspects such as mood, memory, thinking and behaviour. Understanding these nuances can help Carer’s Network provide the care and support needed for those affected while spreading this valuable knowledge.
Causes of Dementia
Dementia can affect anyone, though it becomes more common as we age, particularly after 65. It’s a complex condition with various underlying causes, and for many people diagnosed with dementia, the exact cause remains unclear.
While dementia can sometimes run in families, this is relatively rare. Your risk largely depends on the specific type of dementia you’re dealing with. For instance, about one-third of people with Alzheimer’s disease have a close relative, like a parent or sibling, who has also been diagnosed. However, in many cases, dementia appears without any family history of the condition. Understanding this can help us approach each person’s situation with empathy and tailored support.
How to support and create a dementia-friendly environment
Caring for those living with dementia requires a thoughtful mix of strategies and resources. At Carer’s Network, we use a range of tips and tools to offer the best care and support possible. We’re sharing these approaches with you, hoping they’ll inspire and help others in their own caregiving journeys.
Raise awareness and understanding:
Raising awareness about dementia is crucial because a lack of understanding can often lead to stigma and discrimination against those living with the condition. When people are not informed about dementia, it can result in negative attitudes and unfair treatment in the community. By increasing awareness and education, we can create a supportive and inclusive environment, ensuring that individuals with dementia receive the respect and compassion they deserve.
Creating opportunities
Communities are key to fostering inclusivity and respecting the rights of people with dementia, ensuring they have access to the services and activities everyone deserves. By creating opportunities for those living with dementia to contribute, we help them stay connected and actively involved in the community.
Listen and be open minded
Communication for people with dementia can change over time and from day to day. By listening with respect and an open heart, you can better adapt to evolving needs. Allow people with dementia extra time and space to actively participate in conversations. Using hand gestures and facial expressions can help convey your message, while your body language will show that you are engaged and present.
Encouraging Independence and communication
Supporting people with dementia in feeling comfortable and confident is crucial. Here’s how you can encourage independence and improve communication:
Interaction: Give everyone the time and space needed to express themselves fully. This shows respect and helps everyone feel equally valued in conversations.
Organising: When planning events, ask for preferences and involve everyone in the planning process. This fosters a sense of independence and ownership.
Problem Solving: Allow time to find solutions. Step in with support only when needed, showing patience and understanding.
Tasks: When working on tasks together, avoid micromanaging. Give everyone space to complete tasks independently, and offer help as needed.
More resources are available through Dementia Australia:
How Can We Help?
People living with dementia may have distinct and personal needs, which require individually tailored care and support services. At Carer’s Network, we are dedicated to helping our clients thrive in the comfort of their own homes while maintaining as much independence as possible.
Our commitment is to provide personalised support that enhances their quality of life and respects their unique needs.
Book a Free In-person Consultation: we offer a complimentary, no-obligation in-home consultation where our team will personally discuss how our services can meet your needs.
