As Australia’s leading cause of death, Dementia affects hundreds of thousands of people, families and carers across the country. Yet many people still believe Dementia is a normal part of ageing, which can delay conversations, diagnosis and access to support.
During Dementia Action Week, health professionals have an important role to play in raising awareness, recognising concerns early and connecting people with the support they need.
Whether you’re supporting patients in your clinical practice or helping a loved one navigate a dementia diagnosis, there are practical tools and resources available to start the conversation and improve access to care.
1. Encourage conversations about cognitive health
Many Australians are comfortable discussing their heart health or physical wellbeing, but conversations about brain health are often delayed or avoided.
Health professionals are often the first point of contact when someone notices changes in memory, thinking or behaviour. Creating opportunities to discuss cognitive concerns can help normalise brain health conversations and support earlier assessment when needed.
For patients and families, a simple discussion with their GP can be the first step towards understanding what may be causing cognitive changes and accessing appropriate support.
2. Introduce patients to BrainTrack
Some patients may be concerned about changes in cognition but feel unsure about whether their experiences warrant medical attention.
BrainTrack is a free app designed to help people monitor and better understand changes in cognition over time. Using travel-themed games, the app provides brain health information and allows users to track cognitive performance, creating an opportunity for meaningful discussions with their GP.
Health professionals can encourage patients with concerns about memory or thinking to use the app as a way of monitoring changes and supporting conversations about cognitive health.
3. Connect with local dementia supports
A dementia diagnosis can have a significant impact not only on the individual but also on their family members and carers. Navigating available services can be challenging, particularly in the early stages following diagnosis.
Explore the resources below to help patients, families and carers access information, support and services related to dementia.
- Western Sydney Dementia Handbook: a directory of community services in our Western Sydney region, to support patients with cognitive changes and dementia.
- Dementia Care Navigator: focused on helping people from CALD backgrounds. This may support people on their dementia journey, with their families and/or their carers. This service is free and is available to people living in Western Sydney, specifically Blacktown, Cumberland, Parramatta and The Hills Shire. To contact The Dementia Care Navigator email: irene.robinson@dementia.org.au or phone: 0482 163 434.
Upcoming community education events
Annual Dementia Forum
WentWest is partnering with Western Sydney Local Health District and Blacktown City Council to deliver the 2026 Dementia Forum, bringing together the latest information, services and support available across Western Sydney.
Date: Thursday 24 September
Time: 10:00am – 3:30pm
Location: Blacktown Workers
Blacktown City Ageing Symposium
WentWest will also be attending the symposium, sharing local information and support for older people, carers and aged care professionals.
Date: Thursday 1 October
Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm
Location: Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope