Dementia Care
Dementia describes a collection of symptoms that are caused by disorders affecting the brain. It is not one specific disease.
Dementia affects thinking, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday tasks. Brain function is affected enough to interfere with a person's normal social or working life.
Dementia can happen to anyone, and the risk of dementia increases with age. Most people with dementia are older, but not all older people develop dementia. Dementia is not a normal part of ageing.
In Brisbane North, dementia is the leading cause of death for women and the second leading cause of death for men. Brisbane North PHN’s Joint Regional Health Needs Assessment identifies that there are significant barriers to accessing dementia care services, including unclear pathways, fragmentation of systems and stigma.
Dementia Australia’s website includes comprehensive information for people with dementia, their families and carers, and health professionals caring for people with dementia.
Useful resources
Free Dementia Guide for people living with dementia, their carers and family, from Dementia Australia
Free Understanding Dementia online course (MOOC) by University of Tasmania’s Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre
The National Dementia Helpline – Free call 1800 100 500 24 hours per day
Alzheimer’s Queensland 24/7 Dementia Help Line – Free call 1800 639 331
Dementia Support Australia 24-hour help – Free call 1800 699 799
