Noticing early dementia signs can give you peace of mind

With dementia affecting around a quarter of a million Australians the need to recognise the early warning signs will be the focus of a workshop being held at Muswellbrook next month.

Chronic Disease and Aged Care Senior Manager Sue Ayre says the workshop will help people become better acquainted with how their memory works.

“Being more familiar with how memory works means people notice changes and early warning signs,” Ms Ayre said.

“The aim of the workshop is to raise awareness of the changes that can occur in a person’s memory as well as to highlight the possible side effects of dementia.”

The workshop is open to all members of the community including community care workers, assistants in nursing and volunteers.

Run in collaboration with Alzheimer’s Australia NSW and the NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care, the workshop will include a presentation from geriatrician Dr Andrew Scane, who will discuss the assessment of memory changes and how to recognise dementia.

The workshop will cover the physical and emotional aspects that can occur as a result of memory changes as well as possible legal issues that can arise.

The workshop is free and morning team is available.

WHAT: Memory Changes Workshop
WHERE: Muswellbrook Workers Club, 15-17 Sydney Street, Muswellbrook
WHEN: 10am - 1.30pm, Friday 16 September 2011

Booking are essential.  Call 4985 5700

Know some of the early signs of dementia
• MEMORY DECLINE that affects daily life
• DECLINE IN JUDGEMENT and reasoning
• INCREASING DIFFICULTY with words or language
• DIFFICULTY COMPLETING familiar and everyday tasks
• UNEXPLAINED CHANGES in personality and mood

Contact: Abbey Wright

Phone: (02) 4921 4477