About Dementia

Dementia is a widespread disease. In Australia around 200 000 people have the diagnosis of dementia and close to a million people are affected as families or carers. Dementia can affect younger people; currently over 9 600 Australians under the age of 65 have early onset dementia Dementia may be caused by up to 100 different diseases, and there are many other diseases that may have symptoms similar to dementia. Thus, if you have symptoms that are similar to dementia, it is important to be examined properly. It is important to remember that everyone with dementia can be treated, although few can be cured.

Dementia has been called ‘the relatives' disease’. This is because the illness usually affects the entire family and social circle.

In this section, you can get information on dementia and the symptoms that may accompany it. You can also read about how examinations for dementia are performed, about the various types of dementia, and about medical treatment.