Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions about dementia.

If you would prefer to talk to someone call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.


I am worried about my memory, what should I do?

Read or download the Worried about your memory? booklet


I think my partner has dementia. How do I convince them to see our doctor?

Remember, many conditions have symptoms similar to dementia. It is important not to assume that someone has dementia just because some of the symptoms are present. Strokes, depression, alcoholism, infections, hormone disorders, nutritional deficiencies, and brain tumours can all cause dementia-like symptoms. Many of these conditions can be treated. 

The best place to start the diagnostic process is with your doctor who, after considering the symptoms and ordering screening tests, may offer a preliminary diagnosis or refer the person to a neurologist, geriatrician or psychiatrist.

The best place to start ... is with your doctor

Some people may be resistant to the idea of visiting a doctor. In some cases, people do not realise, or else deny, there is anything wrong with them. This can be due to the brain changes of dementia that interfere with the ability to recognise or appreciate one’s memory problems. Others, with retained insight, may be afraid of having their fears confirmed. 

One of the most effective ways to overcome this problem is to find a physical reason for a visit to the doctor, preferably a check-up for a symptom that the person is willing to acknowledge, such as headaches or failing eyesight. 

Perhaps suggest an examination of the heart, a test for blood pressure or diabetes, or a review of long term medication. Another way is to suggest that it is time for you both to have a physical check up. Any expressed anxiety by the person is an excellent opportunity to suggest a visit to the doctor. 

Be sure to provide a lot of reassurance. A calm, caring attitude at this time can help overcome the person’s very real worries and fears. 

If your friend/partner/family member will not visit the doctor:

  • Talk with other carers who may have had to deal with similar situations
  • Contact the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT)
  • Call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.

For more information on talking with your doctor and working with doctors, see our Help Sheets section of the website.


What can Dementia Australia do to help me?

Support can make a positive difference to managing dementia. We're here to provide the help you need, when you need it.

Dementia Australia provides a range of sensitive and flexible services to support people with any type of dementia, their families and carers throughout the illness.

Services we provide include:

  • Information about dementia
  • The National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500
  • Support groups for people like you who have been diagnosed with dementia
  • Private and confidential counselling
  • Other programs and services in your area.

I have difficulty with English. Do you have information that can help me?

We have information to help you in more than 40 languages including Arabic, Armenian, Chinese, Croatian, Dutch, German, Greek, Hindi, Hungarian, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Latvian, Laotian, Macedonian, Malay, Maltese, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Spanish, Tagalog, Turkish, Ukrainian, and Vietnamese.

Information in these languages is available here.

If you need assistance, phone the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. 

If you want an interpreter you can contact the Helpline through the Telephone Interpreting Service on 131 450.


Can I reduce my risk of getting dementia?

Yes you can!

Learn more about risk reduction here.


What is some of the latest research in Alzheimer's disease?

Find out more on Dementia Australia Research Foundation


I have a young child who wants to know what is happening to their grandparent. How do I handle this?

The most important way to help children or grandchildren cope with dementia is to talk openly and be willing to listen. They need the opportunity to ask questions and express their feelings without fear of a negative reaction.

Visit our website Dementia in my family. And see also our Help Sheets for young people and dementia.


I'd like to learn more about how to care for my loved one with dementia. Do you offer a course I can attend?

Our training courses provide valuable skills and support, and complement Dementia Australia's other services.

We offer timely skills and knowledge in a supportive environment. Our educators are highly qualified and their experience in providing dementia care means they understand your needs.

Visit our Learning section of this website for more information about the courses which you can attend in each state or territory.


For more information call our National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.