Informing the person
When someone is diagnosed with younger onset dementia, it often comes as a shock. This is because dementia is commonly regarded as a disease experienced by older people.
In this context, your role as a health professional is crucial.
- If you advise someone of their diagnosis in a sensitive manner, they’re more likely to adjust to their new life circumstances with relative ease
- If you advise someone of their diagnosis in an insensitive manner, they’re more likely to experience difficulty accepting their medical condition.
After diagnosis, the individual and their loved ones will probably be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn for help. It’s important your patient knows they’re not alone.
Offer them guidance and direct them to Dementia Australia’s website for information, resources and programs. Together, we can help them live the best quality of life possible with dementia.
You can also encourage them to contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. They can also send the National Dementia Helpline an email or chat online (via webchat).