Doctors are encouraging people who have noticed changes in their own memory thinking or behaviour, or that of a family member or friend, to start a conversation with someone they trust this Dementia Action Week.
Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) President Professor Sarah Chalmers said dementia can be particularly difficult to talk about, especially in small rural communities, where privacy, independence and self-reliance are often highly valued.
‘It can be tempting to brush off changes in your memory or thinking, particularly when you are worried about what a diagnosis might mean,” Professor Chalmers said. ‘But if something doesn’t feel right, please talk to someone. That might be your partner, a family member, a close friend or your local doctor.
‘You don’t need to have all the answers, and you don’t need to wait until the changes are affecting every part of your life before asking for help.’
Dementia Action Week, held from 21 to 27 September, carries the theme: It’s time to talk about dementia. An estimated 459,000 Australians are living with dementia in 2026, but fear can prevent people from raising their concerns and contribute to delays in diagnosis and support.
Professor Chalmers said changes associated with dementia can include increasing difficulty remembering recent events, finding the right words, following familiar tasks, managing finances, making decisions or finding the way around familiar places.
‘Everyone forgets things from time to time, and a change in memory does not automatically mean you have dementia,’ she said. ‘There are many conditions that can affect memory and thinking, including some that are treatable. The important thing is to talk to your doctor so those changes can be properly investigated.’
Additional barriers
People living in rural and remote Australia can face additional barriers to dementia diagnosis and care, including long distances, limited access to specialists and diagnostic services, and fewer choices for respite, aged care and support.
‘For some rural patients, seeing a specialist or having further tests may involve a long drive, time away from home and significant expense,’ Professor Chalmers said. ‘Your rural GP is an important first point of contact. They know you, your health history and often your family and community. They can assess what is happening, investigate other possible causes and help coordinate referrals and ongoing care.
‘A diagnosis is not the end of the conversation. It can open the door to treatment, practical support and planning that helps people retain their independence and continue living well in the community they know.’
Dr Chalmers said the conversation must also include carers, families and friends, who can face significant pressure in rural areas where formal services may be scarce. ‘In rural communities, much of the day-to-day support is provided quietly by partners, relatives, friends and neighbours,’ she said.
‘One of the lovely things about rural life can be that connection to community. Family, friends and neighbours are more commonly part of our everyday lives, and when someone is doing it tough, there are often people around who can notice and lend a hand. That can be particularly important for carers, who spend so much of their time looking after somebody else.
‘Carers need care too. Asking how someone is coping, offering to help with a practical task or simply making time for a cup of tea and a conversation can make a real difference.’
‘This Dementia Action Week, let’s make it easier to speak openly about dementia. If you are worried about yourself or someone close to you, start the conversation. Nobody should have to face it alone.’
People concerned about changes in memory, thinking or behaviour are encouraged to make an appointment with their GP.
Information and support are also available through the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, excluding public holidays.
