In Brisbane, the number of people living with dementia is set to increase, from 16,941 in 2024 to an estimated 34,946 by 2054—a 106% rise. This Dementia Action Week, we’re providing information to help you understand these conditions. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of progressive neurological disorders that affect the brain’s ability to function properly. It is marked by a decline in thinking skills. These include memory, reasoning, and judgment. This decline can interfere with daily life and activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, but there are several others, including vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia.
Dementia symptoms can vary. They usually include memory loss, trouble solving problems, confusion about time or place, and mood changes. Dementia can affect anyone, though it is more common in those over 65. The symptoms worsen over time and impact memory, intellect, social skills, physical function and rationality.
The positive news is that research and medical advancements are continually improving our understanding and treatment of dementia. If you have questions or concerns, your GP is an excellent place to start.
Myth Busting: What is truth and what is fiction in dementia?
There are many stigmas associated with dementia.
Dementia is often misunderstood as a natural part of ageing. This is a myth. Many older adults do not develop dementia, and it’s important to understand this distinction.
For more information on common myths and facts about dementia, check out Dementia Australia’s resources. You can find them here.
How do GP’s Diagnose Dementia
Diagnosing dementia involves a thorough process to ensure accurate identification and management.
- Medical History and Symptoms Review: We look at your symptoms, medical history, and family history. This helps us understand the context and nature of your cognitive decline.
- Physical and Neurological Examinations: These examinations help rule out other conditions that might impact cognitive function.
- Cognitive and Neuropsychological Tests: Standardised tests assess cognitive functions like memory, attention, and problem-solving, helping us identify patterns consistent with dementia.
- Imaging Studies: Brain scans such as MRI or CT scans reveal structural changes in the brain. A PET scan is another type of brain scan that shows how your brain is functioning (rather than what it looks like) and is usually performed by a specialist.
- Laboratory Tests: Blood tests and other pathology testing can help identify or exclude other conditions that might look like dementia.
How to Potentially Avoid Dementia: Tips for Brain Health
There is no cure for dementia. However, research shows that our lifestyle choices can help lower the risk of cognitive problems and dementia. Here are the recommendations according to the WHO Guidelines – Risk reduction of cognitive decline and dementia :
1. Stay physically active
- Regular exercise, like walking, helps manage cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, insulin resistance and high cholesterol.
- It also enhances blood flow to the brain and supports cognitive health.
2. Eat a Well-Balanced Diet
- The Mediterranean diet is full of fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and olive oil. It has been connected to a lower risk of dementia.
- Unsaturated fats are found in fish, avocados, nuts, and oils like sunflower, canola, and olive. They are better than saturated fats, which are in fatty meats, butter, palm and coconut oils, cream, cheese, ghee, and lard. Trans-fats are in processed foods, fast foods, snacks, fried foods, and margarines. They can also be found in meat and dairy from animals like cows, sheep, and goats.
3. Quit Smoking
- Smoking cessation improves overall health and reduces risk factors associated with cognitive decline.
4. Drink Less Alcohol
- Excessive drinking is another known risk factor for dementia.
- Australian alcohol guidelines say that adults should drink no more than 10 standard drinks each week. They also recommend no more than 4 drinks in one day.
5. Increase Social Engagement
- Maintaining strong social connections and engaging in regular social activities can help keep your mind active and reduce isolation.
6. Keep Your Brain Active
- Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as reading, puzzles, or learning new skills.
7. Manage Chronic Diseases
- Proper management of chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and depression is important.
- Addressing hearing loss is also crucial, as it can affect your ability to function and your overall well-being.
Braintrack is a new and free app from Dementia Australia. Braintrack helps you track your brain health monthly and contains helpful brain health information. The gamification of the app keeps it fun while also tracking for changes in cognition over time, which can be shared with your GP.
The Role of the GP in Dementia Care
- Early Identification and Diagnosis
- GPs are usually the first point of contact for people with dementia and their families.
- We help to recognise early signs, conduct initial assessments and refer you to specialists as needed.
- Treatment and Medication Management
- We oversee medication management and monitor treatment effectiveness and side effects.
- Support and Guidance
- We help families and caregivers understand dementia. We also provide resources and ongoing support for managing the condition.
- Continuity and Coordination of Care
- We work with other healthcare professionals and community resources to ensure comprehensive care across the stages of dementia.
- Management of other conditions
- We are experienced in managing multiple medical conditions that often occur alongside dementia (such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease).
Dementia Action Week is an opportunity to raise awareness and improve everyone’s understanding. If you have noticed early warning signs or have questions about dementia, our team is here to help. You can book an appointment online or call our practice at 3522 1868.
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