In the Cove is often contacted by locals asking about events for loved ones suffering from dementia. We are pleased to be able to tell you about Sydney Community Services’s new Memory Centre.
Dementia Soon To Be the Nation’s Leading Cause of Death
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) recently released information on Australia’s leading causes of death. Ischaemic heart disease was still the nation’s leading cause of death in 2023 but was closely followed by dementia-related deaths.
Lauren Moran, ABS head of mortality statistics, said:
“The latest data shows that there are now less than 250 deaths separating the top two leading causes. Heart diseases were the cause of 9.2 per cent of deaths, while dementia, which includes Alzheimer’s disease, accounted for 9.1 per cent of deaths in 2023.
“Dementia has been the leading cause of death for women since 2016, making up 12.2 per cent of female deaths and 6.4 per cent of male deaths in 2023. Women have longer life expectancies than men and as such are more likely to live to an age when they have a heightened risk of developing dementia.
“Dementia is also the leading cause of death in South Australia, the Australian Capital Territory and, for the first time, New South Wales.”
Sydney Community Services
Sydney Community Services works hard in our community to support people with Dementia and their carers. They have launched the Memory Centre — a place for locals suffering from dementia and their carers to be in a supportive environment.
Branka Ivkovic is the CEO of Sydney Community Services, and we asked her to provide some insight into the Dementia journey.
“Dementia is a journey that affects not just individuals but entire families and communities. As the number of people diagnosed with dementia continues to rise, the importance of dedicated services and support has never been more critical.
According to the figures published by Dementia Australia, there are more than 421,000 Australians are living with all forms of dementia. This figure is projected to increase to more than 812,500 by 2054, with a projected percentage change of 93%.
The impact of dementia can be profound, leading to emotional and psychological challenges for both individuals and their caregivers.
Why Dementia Services Matter
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Dementia services provide tailored support that enhances individuals’ quality of life. From memory care facilities to in-home support, these services promote independence and dignity, allowing individuals to engage in meaningful activities.
- Education and Training: Specialised services offer education for caregivers and families, equipping them with the skills to manage day-to-day challenges. Understanding the symptoms and progression of dementia can help caregivers respond with compassion and patience.
- Community Connection: Dementia services foster community connections. Support groups and social programs reduce feelings of isolation for both individuals and their caregivers, creating a network of support and understanding.
- Crisis Prevention: Access to dementia services can help prevent crises. Early intervention and regular support can mitigate behavioural issues and health declines, leading to better outcomes for individuals and families.
- Resource Accessibility: These services provide vital information about community resources, including legal advice, financial planning, and healthcare options. Knowing where to turn for help can alleviate the stress of families navigating the dementia journey.
Here at Sydney Community Services, we integrate dementia support into our work. We partner with specialised organisations, ensuring tailored consumer support and staff training. Our commitment to dementia-friendly practices is reflected in the front-line staff’s completion of the University of Tasmania Understanding Dementia Massive Open Online Course and sign up as Dementia Friends, thus incorporating dementia-friendly practices into our programs and facilities. We work with Dementia Support Australia services and the consumer care networks to support people with dementia when changed behaviours impact care.
In October, we are launching a Memory Centre where people living with dementia and their caregivers can meet, talk, share, learn, and laugh. The Centre, located at our Meeting House Hub in Lane Cove North, is designed as a social gathering, bringing individuals with dementia and their families together. It will run as a monthly gathering, providing the members with an opportunity to socialise, relax, share, and discover ways to live well with dementia.
There are a myriad of support groups, educational programs, and memory cafes in our area. In addition to your local Council’s website, a good place to start is Sydney North Health Network. You can call them on 9432 8250 or copy the link to find out more: https://sydneynorthhealthnetwork.org.au/communityhealth/dementia/#organisations. Dementia Australia has a long history of supporting Australians on their dementia journey. You can reach their National Helpline by calling 1800 100 500 or visiting their informative website at https://www.dementia.org.au.
How Can You Help
As community members, we can all play a part in supporting those affected by dementia:
- Raise Awareness: Share information about dementia services in your circles to help others understand the resources available.
- Volunteer: Consider donating your time to the Sydney Community Services Memory Centre. Your efforts can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.
- Advocate: Support local policies and initiatives that aim to improve dementia services and funding in our community.
The journey of dementia is complex, but with the right support and services, individuals and families can navigate it with greater ease. By investing in dementia services, we strengthen our community, fostering a culture of compassion and support. Together, we can ensure that no one faces dementia alone.
Memory Centre Details
