Dementia Factsheet

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Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe the symptoms of a group of short-term
memory loss illnesses that cause a progressive deterioration in a person’s cognitive
functioning.

The most common early symptoms of dementia include memory loss, confusion, loss of
rationality and social skills, changes in personality, mood and behaviour.
Dementia is persistent and progressive, not just occasional. While older age increases
the risk of dementia, it is not a normal part of the ageing process. Dementia can happen
to anybody.

What causes dementia?

The leading cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, but there are currently over 60
different conditions known to cause dementia symptoms, including:

• Vascular dementia
• Lewy Body dementia
• Pick’s disease
• Frontal lobal dementia
• Parkinson’s disease
• Excessive consumption of alcohol over a long period of time
• Thyroid disease
• Certain brain tumours
• AIDS

What can be done to help?

While there is currently no prevention or cure for dementia, medications have been
found to reduce some of the symptoms.

Early diagnosis can be very helpful in relieving the stress and confusion about what is
happening for the person with dementia, their family and friends

Support is vital for people with dementia, and the help of families, friends and carers can
make a positive difference in managing the condition.

How can Just Better Care help?

Just Better Care can offer “practical help” with a wide range of services delivered by
workers trained in dementia care. The help may include social support and respite which
can all make a positive difference to the individual and their carer.

A small amount of practical help can really make a big difference to how the family and
person with the condition will be able to manage and cope.

Just Better Care has skilled and trained staff that have the experience and skills to
provide real support when it is needed.

References

NSW Health
Dementia Care Australia
Alzheimer’s Australia