1. You can still live well with dementia

You can still lead an active, fulfilling and healthy lifestyle with dementia. Your ability to perform daily routines and activities might change over time, but it does not mean you need to stop doing the things you enjoy. You may just have to do them differently. It is important to stay engaged and look after your health. Small changes to your lifestyle can lead to better health and wellbeing.

• Use our pathways website for tips and guidance on how to live well after a Dementia diagnosis
• Download Dementia Australia’s Living Well toolkit
  
  

2. Keeping active is important

Staying active and social can help your mobility and memory. It can also improve your self-esteem, sleep and wellbeing.
Thirty minutes of physical activity each day can improve the way you think and feel. If this seems difficult,  start with less activity and increase it over time.

You could try:

• walking
• dancing
• Tai Chi
• gardening
• lawn bowls
• exercise classes, including low-intensity and water exercises.
  

Be supported to keep active and receive a personalised plan with the 12 Week Dementia Rehabilitation Program

3. Challenging your mind is beneficial

Exercising your mind daily can keep your brain stimulated and help slow the progression of dementia into the later stages.  Rather than giving up activities that are becoming difficult, it may be possible to modify the activity or break it down into manageable parts. Avoid choosing activities that are beyond capabilities as this may result in frustration and a sense of failure.

You could try:

• reading
• singing
• playing musical instruments
• storytelling
• crossword puzzles
• attending community events

Attend a dementia friendly event this week:

18-24 September: Free coffee at Bunjil Place Café in Narre Warren
20 September: Morning activities and live music Bunjil Place Function Centre in Narre Warren

For more ideas on mental exercises download Dementia Australia’s information sheet

4. Carers need support too

If someone close to you is living with dementia, do not underestimate the impact this can have on you. Whether you are the partner, child, relative or friend, your relationship will change. It is important to look after your health and wellbeing and turn to others for support when you need it. This will ensure you provide the best care for the person with dementia, for as long as you are able.

Download Dementia Australia’s Support guide for Carers

5. There are local support programs in south east Melbourne

Whether you’re living with dementia, a carer or a health professional – knowing the available support programs and services in south east Melbourne can help people find the care they need earlier.

• SEMPHN Dementia Referral Pathway helps health professionals navigate the services available in south eastern Melbourne.
• Demystifying Dementia GP Training workshop in collaboration with Dementia Training Australia (21 October).
  
• Dementia Rehabilitation Program is a free 12-week program providing holistic in-home support for people living with Dementia.
• carefinder provides specialist assistance to seniors who need intensive support to understand and access aged care services who could otherwise fall through the cracks.
• Dementia Pathways provides resources for people with a recent diagnosis of dementia, resources for their caregivers and family, and a dedicated page for health professionals.