RURAL AUSTRALIANS URGED TO TALK ABOUT DEMENTIA

Rural and remote Australians are being encouraged to speak with their local doctor about changes to memory, thinking or behaviour during Dementia Action Week.

Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine President Dr Rod Martin says people should not wait until they are certain something is wrong before seeking advice.

“Dementia is not a normal part of ageing, and there can be many reasons why someone's memory, thinking or behaviour changes,” Dr Martin said.

“If you've noticed something that concerns you — in yourself, your partner, a parent or someone else you care about — talk to your doctor.”

The College says access to specialist dementia services can be more limited outside major cities. In 2024, 54 specialist diagnostic services registered with the Australian Dementia Network were located in major cities, compared with 20 in regional areas and none in remote or very remote Australia.

Dr Martin says that makes the relationship between rural patients and their local doctors particularly important, with Rural Generalists able to investigate symptoms and coordinate specialist assessment where needed.