Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and dementia
2-minute read
Find out more about dementia and how it affects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from Mark Wenitong, one of Australia's longest standing and respected indigenous doctors.
Who is at risk of dementia? - Dr Mark Wenitong advice
There are many risk factors that can lead to dementia however some of them are more prevalent in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Watch the video below and find out about the common risk factors.
Read the related video transcript
Early signs of dementia - Dr Mark Wenitong advice
It is important to recognise the early signs of dementia so that support can be provided as soon as possible. The Aboriginal Medical Services can provide assistance through translation services and an understanding of cultural issues and background. The video below highlights some of the signs to look out for.
Read the related video transcript
How is dementia diagnosed? - Dr Mark Wenitong advice
Along with a full examination, a doctor will also do a questionnaire called KICA which is a mental-state examination made for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The video below highlights how dementia is diagnosed and what can happen next.
Read the related video transcript
Dementia help and support - Dr Mark Wenitong advice
There are a number of places to get help and support for people with Dementia. The Aboriginal Medical Service can provide primary health care and understand cultural issues. Watch the video below and find out what support is available.
Read the related video transcript
Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content.
Last reviewed: October 2018
Need more information?
These trusted information partners have more on this topic.
Top results
Dementia Australia | Risk factors for dementia information about lowering your risk of dementia
Reduce your risk of dementia Your brain is your most valuable asset. Being brain healthy is relevant at any age, whether you are young, old or in between. However, it is particularly important once you reach middle age as this is when changes start to occur in the brain. The risk factors for dementia are different in everybody. Your potential for developing dementia may be
Read more on Dementia Australia website
Dementia: what is it? - myDr.com.au
Dementia affects thinking, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday tasks. This article describes some early signs of dementia, who gets dementia and emphasises the importance of a timely medical diagnosis.
Read more on myDr website
Vascular dementia - myDr.com.au
Vascular dementia is a general term that describes problems with reasoning, planning, judgement, memory and other thinking skills.
Read more on myDr website
Top results
Dementia Types and Symptoms | Ausmed
Dementia is the term used for a collection of symptoms that are caused by disorders affecting the brainit is not one specific disease. There are 6 main cognitive domains that may be affected by dementia. An estimated 1,800 new cases of dementia are detected each week and this is expected to grow.
Read more on Ausmed Education website
Healthdirect 24hr 7 days a week hotline
24 hour health advice you can count on
Government Accredited with over 140 information partners
We are a government-funded service, providing quality, approved health information and advice
