Looking after someone with dementia can be very tiring.
- Ask your family or friends for help.
- Try to organise some time each week when you can leave your family member in someone else’s care so that you can have a rest.
You could also arrange for your family member to go to a day respite centre. To organise this, contact the nearest Aged Care Assessment Team at your Local District Hospital.
In addition to your doctor and pharmacist, you can get helpful support at any time of the day or night from the Dementia Behavioural Management Advisory Service.
- Telephone: 1800 699 799. 24 hours a day.
- Website: DBMAS Site
It can be helpful to talk with other people who are also looking after someone with dementia. You may be able to share good ideas or simply talk about what is worrying you. A good place to meet with other people is at your nearest dementia carers’ support group. Groups are also available for people who speak languages other than English. For contact details of your nearest group, contact the Carer Program Co-ordinator or the Multicultural Health Unit at your local hospital.