Timely diagnosis of dementia, regardless of age or disease progression, allows the person and their family to adjust, plan, and make lifestyle changes that can slow disease progression and improve quality of life.
Face Dementia, a dementia awareness campaign, is running in Western Sydney until October 2024 and aims to increase awareness of early symptoms of dementia, reduce dementia-related stigma and improve timely diagnosis.
People who are concerned about themselves or others are encouraged to complete the checklist for dementia symptoms and changes (available on the Face Dementia website) and ask their GP for an assessment.
Western Sydney resident, Stephen Grady (pictured), was diagnosed with younger onset dementia at the age of 60 after his wife encouraged him to see a doctor. “I want to encourage others to be aware of the signs of dementia, be firm in advocating for yourself, and to get an early diagnosis.”
Sydney-based GP, Dr Dimity Pond, said: “If you’re concerned, ask your GP for an assessment. A cognitive screen can be done as part of an annual assessment for people over 75 years. It is a good way to get a baseline, so your GP or practice nurse can monitor changes.”
For more information and resources, visit the Face Dementia website: www.facedementia.au/en or www.facedementia.au/zh or come along to one of our free community events.