When a Parent Develops Dementia: You Don't Have to Navigate It Alone

Rachael
7 days ago
3 min read

Watching a parent develop dementia can be one of life's most challenging experiences.

Many people describe feeling overwhelmed, uncertain and heartbroken as they gradually shift from being someone's child to becoming their carer. It can be difficult to know when to step in, how much support to offer, and where to turn for help.

One of the most important things to remember is this:

You don't have to figure it all out on your own.

Many families don't realise that they are already carers. If you're helping with appointments, shopping, finances, medications, transport or simply checking in on your loved one regularly, you're providing care. Recognising this is an important first step because it opens the door to valuable support and resources.

Rather than trying to solve every future problem, focus on where your loved one is today. Dementia is a progressive condition, and every person's journey is different. The goal isn't to have all the answers; it's to respond to each stage with compassion, patience and good support.

There are excellent services available to help families navigate the journey. Dementia Australia provides education, practical advice and support for carers, while My Aged Care can help connect families with home care, respite and other services that allow people to remain independent for as long as possible. Your GP and geriatrician can also provide guidance about safety, decision-making and planning for the future.

Perhaps most importantly, remember to care for yourself. Supporting someone with dementia can be emotionally and physically demanding. Accepting help, taking regular breaks and accessing respite are not signs of failure. They are what allow you to continue caring with patience, kindness and resilience.

If someone you love is living with dementia, know that you are not alone. There is support available, and with the right guidance, you can navigate this journey one step at a time while preserving both your loved one's dignity and your own wellbeing. Here are some helpful resources for your reference: Dementia Australia

Provides information, education, counselling, support groups, carer training, communication strategies and practical advice for people living with dementia and their families.

National Dementia Helpline: 1800 100 500 (Available 24 hours, 7 days)Website: https://www.dementia.org.au

My Aged Care

The Australian Government's entry point for accessing funded aged care services, including home support, Home Care Packages, respite care and aged care assessments.

Phone: 1800 200 422Monday to Friday: 8:00 am to 8:00 pmSaturday: 10:00 am to 2:00 pmWebsite: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au

Carer Gateway

A free national service providing support specifically for carers, including counselling, coaching, peer support, emergency respite and practical advice.

Phone: 1800 422 737Monday to Friday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pmWebsite: https://www.carergateway.gov.au

Your General Practitioner (GP)

Your GP can coordinate your loved one's care, provide referrals to geriatricians and memory clinics, arrange My Aged Care referrals, review medications and assist with ongoing health management.

Contact: Your regular GP.

Geriatrician or Memory Clinic

Provides specialist assessment of dementia, advice regarding decision-making capacity, treatment options, driving safety, and planning for future care.

Access: Ask your GP for a referral.

Home Care Provider or Case Manager

If your loved one already receives government-funded home care, their provider can review support needs, increase services when circumstances change, coordinate respite, and assist with care planning.

Contact: Your allocated Home Care Provider or Case Manager.