About Dementia
Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a group of syndromes that affect how well our brains work. Find out more about dementia and how you can support people with dementia and their care partners below.
Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a group of syndromes that affect how well our brains work. Find out more about dementia and how you can support people with dementia and their care partners below.
Supporting a person with dementia
Support a person with dementia
Supporting a care partner
More information
Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a group of syndromes that affect how well our brains work.
The most common form of dementia is Alzheimers Disease.
Other forms of dementia include Vascular Dementia, Lewy Body Disease and Frontotemporal Dementia.
Although Dementia is mostly seen in older people, it is not a normal part of aging.
The symptoms of dementia can vary from person to person but most commonly include changes in behaviour & personality, memory loss, impaired reasoning and reduced language skills.
Dementia is a progressive condition meaning the brain is impaired more and more over time. How quickly the dementia progresses is different for each person and can depend on the type of Dementia.
While dementia is a very serious condition, it is possible to live a happy and fulfilling life with dementia.
We can help.
Contact us to enquire about our About Dementia education session or visit Alzheimers New Zealand website for more detailed information about Dementia.
A key part of supporting a person with Dementia is communication, and communication can sometimes be a little challenging. So, we have put together 10 Top Tips for communicating with a person with Dementia. These tips have come directly from people with Dementia and their carers. Download the 10 Top Tips brochure here.
It can be challenging when a person close to you is diagnosed with Dementia. They may act differently or not seem like the person you used to know. You may not feel like you can interact with them in the same way you used to and may feel a little awkward.
Try to remember that it is also a very hard time for the person with Dementia and that while they may seem different at times, they are still the same person you love.
“I am still me”
The most important thing that carers tell us is that they just want people to stay in touch, and to not abandon friendships and relationships when the going gets tough. So do your best to get your head around dementia, and contact us if you need advice on tips and strategies that help you to be confident about offering your help.
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