You may have been wondering what is happening to you for some time now and have probably been worried and anxious about the changes you've noticed.
This information is for you as you make adjustments and plan your next steps.
Being diagnosed with dementia can be upsetting; however, for some people who have been worried about themselves for some time, the diagnosis can come as a relief.
Often people find it easier to manage a diagnosis if they can understand the disease and its implications. This knowledge can also assist in beginning to plan for the future.
Contact Dementia Australia
Dementia Australia provides a range of specialist services to support people with all types of dementia and their families throughout the course of the illness. We can help you with:
- Information about dementia
- Educational groups and social events for people who have a diagnosis of dementia
- Counselling for you and your family and friends – individually or together
- Counselling for individuals, couples and family groups
- Other programs and services and supports in your area
Talk about the diagnosis
Tell people close to you
When you are ready, it is important to tell your family and friends who don’t already know about your diagnosis, that you have dementia.
This might be difficult for you, as a diagnosis of dementia is very difficult to come to terms with. But it is better that people close to you are clear about it so they can have time to adjust to your condition, find out about dementia and learn how best to support you.
Dementia Australia has a range of Help Sheets especially for families and friends of people with dementia, which will provide them with a range information about dementia and ways they can help. You can contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 if you would like to order a copy or copies of any of these Help Sheets.
Dementia Australia provides a range of services to support people with all types of dementia and their families throughout the course of the illness. Read more about the services and support that we can provide.
Talk to your doctor
If you have been diagnosed with dementia, you should talk to your doctor. Find out how best to talk with your doctor to make sure that you obtain the health care, advice and support you want.
Read books on dementia
A number of books written by people with dementia are available from Dementia Australia libraries. The libraries also hold other books and videos about dementia and how to better manage the condition.
Contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 if you would like more information about these books and videos.
We can recommend the following books:
Losing my mind : An intimate look at life with Alzheimer's
Thomas DeBaggio
Whether describing the happy days of his youth or lamenting over the burden of his disease has placed upon his loved ones, DeBaggio manages to inspire the reader with his ability to function, to think, and ultimately to survive.
Dancing with dementia
Christine Bryden
This book is a thoughtful exploration of how dementia challenges our ideas of personal identity and of the process of self-discovery it can bring about.
Watch our video Dementia: Taking the Next Step
A film for people with all forms of dementia, their families and carers.