What is dementia?

Dementia is a broad term used to describe the gradual loss of your memory, thinking and social skills.

Dementia is the same condition for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people as it is for everyone else. However, this article also tries to cover the cultural context of health and healthcare.

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are more likely to get dementia than the general population.

The most common causes of dementia in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are:

• Alzheimer's disease
• vascular dementia
• mixed dementia
• dementia with Lewy bodies

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are also more likely to get dementia at a younger age.

What are the symptoms of dementia?

The early signs of dementia can be very mild and may not be obvious straightaway. You may notice problems with your memory, such as forgetting recent events.

Dementia most commonly affects older people. But there are types of dementia that affect younger people.

Anyone can get dementia.

It's important to know the early signs of dementia so that you can get support as soon as possible.

What causes dementia?

There are many different types of dementia and they each have their own cause.

There are some things that can make it more likely for you to get dementia, such as having:

• high blood pressure
• type 2 diabetes
• obesity
• kidney disease
• brain injury
• hearing loss

Smoking can also increase your chance of getting dementia.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have any concerns about dementia, you should see a doctor or Aboriginal Health Worker.

Many conditions have symptoms that are like dementia and can be treated.

It's important to get help early, so that treatment and support can be organised as soon as possible.

How is dementia diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and examine you. They may arrange for you to have some tests. These may include blood tests and a CT scan.

They may also ask you to do a screening test for dementia.

Only a doctor can diagnose dementia.

Your doctor may refer you to a geriatrician (doctor who looks after older people).

How is dementia treated?

There is no cure for dementia, but there are medicines that can help with some symptoms. These medicines can help slow down the progress of the dementia.

Early diagnosis can help you get the right supports in place. This can help you and your family to have a better quality of life.

How can I live well with dementia?

If you are living with dementia, stay or get involved in ceremony and cultural activities. You may want to think about how you can:

• have a yarn and spend time with family and friends
• spend time connecting to Country
• feel connected to Community

What else do I need to consider?

It's important to think about the future and consider things like:

• Power of Attorney — this gives other people the power to make financial and medical decisions on your behalf.
• Advance Care Directive — this outlines your wishes for healthcare and treatment when you become unable to make decisions for yourself.
• Making funeral plans.

Can dementia be prevented?

There are things you can do to help lower your chance of getting dementia, such as:

• connecting with friends and family
• eating well
• being physically active
• keeping a healthy weight
• engaging in learning and employment
• not smoking
• drinking alcohol in safe amounts

Resources and support

The Caring for Spirit website has resources and information on dementia for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities.

You can also call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.

Dementia Australia has a website with more information and videos.

For other support and information, visit the My Aged Care website or call them on 1800 200 422. They offer support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.