The first episode in Dementia Australia’s Hold the Moment podcast series explores the experience of receiving a dementia diagnosis and discusses how accessing support and information early can be life changing.
In the episode Jim Rogers, a 57-year-old living with younger onset dementia, shares how it felt to be diagnosed with his co-host, journalist and Dementia Australia Ambassador Hamish Macdonald.
“I was shocked. It was almost an out-of-body experience, it was as though time stood still,” Mr Rogers said.
“I can’t stress enough how important it is to seek support after receiving a diagnosis of dementia.
“I implore all general practitioners and healthcare professionals involved in dementia diagnosis to direct all their patients to Dementia Australia for support and information.
“Their support absolutely turned my life around and I hope this podcast helps others to know there is help available.”
People living with younger onset dementia have received a diagnosis under the age of 65. In 2024, it is estimated there are almost 29,000. This is expected to rise to almost 41,000 people by 2054.
Dr Marita Long, Dementia Australia Honorary Medical Advisor and general practitioner reiterates this call.
“I encourage all my colleagues to refer patients of any age, with any concerns or questions about dementia to Dementia Australia to access support and services,” Dr Long said.
“Dementia Australia’s Referrer Kit is a great start and is easily found on their website.”
The episode also features Catherine Daskalakis, a 57-year-old Sydney kindergarten teacher, who shares the frightening experience that led to her own diagnosis and what gives her hope in the dark moments.
“Not in my wildest dreams did I think I had Alzheimer’s disease.” Mrs Daskalakis said.
Since her diagnosis, Catherine has become determined to live well with dementia and share her story, reducing the stigma and highlighting that dementia does not just impact elderly people.
“I wanted to share my story, and if I could just give that one person hope, I have done my job.” Mrs Daskalakis said.
Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said with more than 421,000 Australians living with dementia, a figure that is expected to double by 2054 it is vital that people know to contact Dementia Australia for support and for health care professionals to refer their patients to Dementia Australia for ongoing support and information.
The full episode can be played here.
Source: Dementia Australia.
