Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia and the leading cause of death in women. It is also the leading cause of death for Australians aged 65 and over[1]. The North Coast has some of the highest rates of dementia in the country[2].
People living with dementia and their families have told us how important it is to find the supports and services that can assist them once a diagnosis is made. ‘What a difference in knowing that there was support out there,’ said a family carer on the North Coast.
Healthy North Coast has worked with people living with dementia, their families and local service providers to develop a new information booklet that will help them connect with local and national supports along their journey.
The booklet includes commonly asked questions for them to ask their GP and/or specialist.
The resource will be available in hard copies, delivered to all general practices in our region, and an e-version will be linked to the Dementia and Cognitive Impairment HealthPathway.
A Primary Care Impact Activity is now available. It includes resources to assist health professionals working in general practice to support people living with dementia and their families throughout their journey. This new package of materials builds awareness of, and confidence in, knowing how to respond to patients’ questions and access to local services.
For further information, contact Judy Bartholomew, Healthy Ageing Coordinator at [email protected].
[1] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2022), Dementia in Australia, see table S2.9 available at https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/dementia/dementia-in-aus/data. [2] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2022), Dementia in Australia, see table S2.9 available at https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/dementia/dementia-in-aus/data.