What can I do?
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. Find out what you can do to help yourself.
Certainly being diagnosed with dementia is upsetting. For some people though, who have been worried about themselves for some time, the diagnosis can come as a relief.
You know that you have a disease, and knowing about the disease can help cope more easily. It also enables you to start planning ahead.
Start by contacting Alzheimer's Australia
Alzheimer's Australia provides a range of services to support people with any type of dementia and their families throughout the course of the illness. We can help you with:
- Information about dementia
- Support groups for people like you who have been diagnosed with dementia
- Private and confidential counselling
- Other programs and services in your area.
Tell people close to you
It is important to tell your family and friends, when you're ready, that you have dementia if they do not already know.
It may be difficult for you because such a diagnosis is hard to come to terms with for everyone concerned. 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 how best to support you.
Alzheimer's Australia has a Help Sheet especially for family and friends, which provides information about dementia and ways to help. Contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 if you would like some copies for your family and friends.
Alzheimer's Australia provides a range of services to support people with any type of dementia and their families throughout the course of the illness. Read more about our Services & Support.
If you have been diagnosed with dementia, you should talk to your doctor. Find out what are some of the ways of talking with your doctor to make sure that you obtain the health care, advice and support you want.
It is important to know that;
- You are still the same person
- The changes you are experiencing are because of a condition of the brain - dementia
- You may have good days and bad days
- Each person is affected differently and symptoms may vary
- You are not alone. There are people who understand what you are going through and can help
- There are ways to help yourself cope better now, and later on.
You may feel angry, frustrated or upset about the changes in your life. Talking about these feelings with a trusted family member, friend or Alzheimer's Australia counsellor, or asking for information, may help.
Alzheimer's Australia can help with some tips. Contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.
This information is based on: I'm told I have dementia, Alzheimer's Disease Society, UK Just for you, Alzheimer's Society of Canada
Living with memory loss, Alzheimer's Australia SA.
Read books on dementia
A number of books written by people with dementia are available from Alzheimer's Australia libraries. The libraries also hold other books and videos about dementia and how to manage the condition. Contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 if you would like some more information about these books and videos.
Who will I be when I die?
Christine Boden
Christine Boden was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease at 46 and re-diagnosed with frontal lobe dementia when she was 49. This is the first book written by an Australian with the condition and offers a unique insight into her battle with dementia.
Dancing with dementia
Christine Bryden
Formerly Christine Boden (See title above) her new 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.
Living in the labyrinth
Diana McGowin
A personal story of a woman diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. It offers a rare glimpse into the world of a person with dementia and their feelings.
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.
The books listed above are all available for purchase on Alzheimer's Australia Online Bookshop - an easy way of purchasing books which cover a wide range of topic relating to Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
Further help
The Living with Memory Loss Program is available in each State and Territory. The program includes education and support groups which are specifically designed for people in the early stage of dementia, and their family members and friends. Programs offered over six to eight weeks include two-hourly sessions held one day a week. Ongoing support groups usually meet on a monthly basis.
For more information about the Living With Memory Loss Program contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 or see Services & Support and select your State or Territory.
The information on this page provides a general summary only of the subject matter covered. Any person with dementia or a carer for a person with dementia should seek professional advice about the specific case. Alzheimer's Australia is not liable for any error or omission in this publication, even if negligent.