Groundbreaking film: On dementia diagnosis, what can be done?

The film, Dementia: Taking the Next Step, was launched on 26 April by Victorian Minister for Health and Ageing, David Davis, provides a new information resource for people living with dementia, their families and carers.

"This is an exciting initiative of Alzheimer’s Australia Vic to provide support and understanding for those who are dealing with a dementia diagnosis and seeking to comprehend the challenges they may face," Minister Davis said.

"With 72,000 Victorians living with dementia it is important that we offer free support services, such as this DVD, to ensure our communities are aware there is help available."

The brainchild of Alzheimer’s Australia Vic client, Carol Liavis who cares for her father, the film has been developed to help those feeling confronted by the diagnosis of dementia by sharing the stories of three families who have been through this experience.

"I felt that with my experience and the experiences of others we could really help people when they first receive a diagnosis, Ms Liavis said.

"It’s an overwhelming time and knowing where to start asking for help is the most important thing I have learnt on my journey with my father."

The film which is available free of charge on DVD also features medical comments by dementia specialist, Associate Professor Michael Woodward, who provides an overview of dementia in terms of how to understand what is happening, how to make adjustments to deal with the diagnosis and how to get help.

"A lot of people are quite unsure of what they need to do once a diagnosis has been made and who they can talk to about it," Assoc Prof Woodward said.

"After the diagnosis from a doctor we encourage people who have been diagnosed, or their family members and friends, to contact Alzheimer’s Australia Vic on 1800 100 500 to discuss what has happened and to find out what services would benefit them.

"What we are trying to achieve with the film is to remind our communities that there is help out there and they don’t have to deal with their diagnosis, or that of their loved ones, by themselves."

Copies of the DVD will be made available to Cognitive Dementia and Memory Services (CDAMS) around Victoria as well as other Victorian health organisations assisting people in the early stages of a diagnosis.

The DVD will be shared with all other state and territory offices of Alzheimer’s Australia as a Victorian led initiative.

For further enquiries or to order copies please contact Diana Fayle on 03 9816 5792 and dfayle@alzvic.asn.au