The last month and the next are so important for our region.
In June our group and region was asked to be represented at the National Dementia Conference in Melbourne.
Two days where people from all over the country and world came together for one goal.
To help people with dementia, to share wisdom and feelings.
To give us all information about what researchers are finding, how among those over 65 years dementia is falling, but how for people aged 20 to 50 dementia is on the rise.
But what was evident was how each group worked in different ways but learned from each other.
My side was with rural areas and, in lots of cases, how some rural areas miss out altogether on services.
And why should a person with this damn disease be alone?
People with dementia need to speak with each other, for they are the only ones with the feelings inside.
At this stage, they are the ones who can help each other.
But it was mind-blowing how in some countries dementia is more prevalent, and in one country in particular, one in eight men and one in three women have dementia — a staggering figure for a small country.
And again the question is, why?
Also, how other countries are operating dementia-friendly towns and cities.
Such as England, where ambulance services have become dementia-friendly for all patients.
A scheme our government here rejected simply because of the cost to implement, which in my opinion is disgusting.
Again, dementia in Australia put in the background.
But to have people from all over our state and country was beautiful to see.
On August 26, we here in Kyabram, at Kyabram Community and Learning Centre, are providing our second Dementia Forum.
Where a doctor, geriatrician, aged care representatives and other speakers come together to help locals in the region.
Where we can be brought up to date with changes to our services that the government has changed.
Plus, hearing first hand from professionals who are leaders in their fields.
And where questions can be asked either in the presence of others or in private.
Our region has been and is being recognised throughout, and it is help like this that has been at the forefront of our recognition.
To the people with dementia who come out and speak, it is with respect I say thank you.
To the carers, whether professional or family, thank you.
We have a long way to go, but a fix is getting closer each day.
People in the early stages, from young to mature age, need to change the mindset in the rural domain and be prepared to help each other relieve the pain and frustration of dementia.
For we with this damn disease need to become a team and work together.
There is no doubt about this.
— Mick Simpson
For local help in Kyabram, please ring Kyabram Community and Learning Centre on 5852 0000 or the 24-hour Australia-wide Dementia Australia Hotline on 1800 11 500.
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