Dementia Support

Dementia Support for Older Australians

Dementia is a word many of us are familiar with or perhaps one we dread hearing. Yet it affects over 400,000 people across Australia and touches countless more families and carers. At Silver Lifestyle, we believe that with the right information, support and planning, people living with dementia can continue to live with dignity, connection and joy.

This page is a rounded, compassionate guide to dementia support for older Australians—and the loved ones who care for them. We cover understanding dementia, managing symptoms, navigating care options, building support networks, and staying mentally, emotionally and socially safe.

Understanding Dementia: What You Need to Know

Dementia is not one single disease—it’s an umbrella term for conditions that cause memory, thinking, and behaviour difficulties. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type, but there are many others: vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and more.

Typically, dementia symptoms develop gradually. Common signs include:

• Memory loss or repeating questions
• Struggling to find words or complete familiar tasks
• Disorientation and confusion
• Changes in mood or personality
• Loss of judgement or difficulty making decisions

Early diagnosis allows for better planning and access to support services, so if something feels off—don’t wait to talk to a GP.

First Steps After Diagnosis

Receiving a diagnosis can be overwhelming, but it’s also a door to planning ahead. As soon as possible, consider:

• Bookmarking this page and others that offer clear guidance.
• Talking with a trusted family member or friend about the diagnosis.
• Obtaining referrals for a geriatrician, occupational therapist or memory clinic.
• Starting legal and financial planning early: enduring power of attorney, guardian appointments, and advance care directives.

Connecting with dementia advisers or local support groups during this phase can provide reassurance and early emotional support.

Supporting Daily Living and Independence

Even after a diagnosis, many people continue to live safely at home with the right supports. These might include:

• Home care services (meals, personal care, transport)
• Allied health supports (physio, occupational therapy, therapy providers)
• Assistive technology (memory apps, alarms, medication reminders)
• Residential respite care or adult day centres

My Aged Care can assess and approve many of these services; just start with an assessment — no immediate commitment required.

Emotional & Social Support for Loved Ones

Caring for someone with dementia can be rewarding but also emotionally draining. Carers often need support themselves. Make sure to:

• Take regular breaks—respite care is available and worth exploring.
• Join a dementia carer support group (in person or online).
• Look after your own health: meal plans, exercise, appointment reminders.
• Get information on carer allowances or tax concessions available in Australia.

Coping Strategies as Symptoms Progress

As dementia progresses, daily life may require more structure and planning. Helpful strategies include:

• Establishing routines (same meals, same times, same environment).
• Label cabinets and drawers, simplify home layout, reduce clutter.
• Use visual cues, calendars, checklists and memory books.
• Prioritise safety and fall prevention (grab rails, alarms, slip-resistant flooring).
• Use clear instructions, one task at a time, and positive reinforcement.

Choosing the Right Care Options

Eventually, your loved one may need higher-level care. Transitioning to care doesn’t mean failure—it can mean a safer, more social, supported life with trained professionals available 24/7.

Care options include:

• Home Care Packages
• Respite care (short-term stays at home or in residential facilities)
• Specialist dementia care homes
• Supported living units or memory support villages

Use My Aged Care assessments to explore and compare providers—visit, talk to staff and families, and ask detailed questions before deciding.

Maintaining Meaning & Quality of Life

Living well with dementia is possible—and often stronger through connection and purpose. Encourage:

• Engaging activities tailored to ability—music, art, gardening, reminiscence.
• Regular social connection—family, support groups, church, local seniors centres.
• Delicious, easy-to-prepare meals and hydration reminders.
• Gentle physical movement—chair yoga, stretching, guided walks.

These elements can slow decline, lift mood, and make daily life more satisfying.

Financial Planning & Centrelink Support

Dementia symptoms may affect income, assets or legal capacity. Ensure:

• Enduring Power of Attorney and Advance Care Directive are in place early.
• Centrelink Age Pension eligibility is reviewed—care packages, carer payment, and subsidy may apply.
• Veteran Affairs support is considered if your loved one is eligible.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Important issues to address:

• Privacy, dignity and consent—respecting the person’s preferences and rights.
• Ensuring decisions are based on the person’s known wishes, not assumptions.
• Reviewing security and scaffolding around finances to guard against scams.

Community and Technology Supports

Australia offers a range of free or subsidised resources:

• Dementia Australia helpline (1800 100 500) – information and support on tap.
• NDIS—partially covers allied health and specialist supports.
• Assistive Tech—apps like memory prompts, GPS locators, medication reminders.
• Local councils—many operate dementia-friendly café hubs, memory cafés or walking groups.

Real-Life Stories and Inspiration

Hearing from others in similar situations can bring hope and clarity. Many families share stories of finding rhythm in routine, laughter in small moments, and new forms of connection despite advancing symptoms.

Dementia does not define the whole story of a person—and with the right support, life continues to hold meaning, creativity, caring and joy.

Creating a Support Plan

Put it all together with these planning steps:

• Discuss diagnosis and preferences while capacity is strong.
• Prepare legal tools—EPOA, guardianship, advanced care plans.
• Pursue My Aged Care or NDIS assessments.
• Create an activity and social engagement plan—involve hobbies, groups, therapies.
• Build a care team—GP, allied health, dementia adviser, respite provider.
• Review regularly as needs evolve.

Staying Positive Through the Journey

Dementia is a journey that requires adaptation, resilience and compassion—for the person living with it and for their carer. Celebrate the moments of warmth, the everyday connection, and the small triumphs. Self-care is not selfish—it’s essential.

Remember, you don’t have to walk this path alone. Whether it’s asking for a break, attending a carer support group, or speaking with a counsellor—reaching out is strength, not weakness.

Closing Thoughts

Dementia may change the way your loved one experiences life—but it does not define their worth or your dedication. With knowledge, planning and caring connections, you can create a life that continues to nourish, inspire and bring peace.

Silver Lifestyle is here to guide you through practical steps and heartfelt support. Let’s walk the road together: one moment, one connection, one day at a time.