Dementia Australia is reminding Australians that dementia support and information is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout the holiday period, which can be a challenging time for people living with dementia, their families and carers.
The National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500, will remain open for information and support across the entire holiday period, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including all public holidays.
Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan said Australians don’t have to wait until after the holidays to access support, information or to ask a question.
“The holidays can be a difficult and challenging time for people living with dementia, their carers and loved ones with lots of social gatherings, changes in routine or environment and travel,” Professor Buchanan said.
“It might be a time when you haven’t seen a family member in a while and you notice something has changed. Or maybe you have the chance to talk to family or friends and questions around cognitive changes come up.
“Please know that the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 remains open over the holidays for this very reason. Do not hesitate to reach out. You do not have to wait until the new year to find help.
“No one should have to face dementia alone. Highly trained National Dementia Helpline Advisors are available 24/7 to help provide information, support and advice to anyone impacted by dementia, or anyone who has concerns about cognitive changes in themselves or a loved one.”
The National Dementia Helpline is a free call to 1800 100 500 or you can live chat with a National Dementia Helpline Advisor through Dementia Australia’s website, visit dementia.org.au/helpline. An email can also be sent to [email protected]
If you require a translator please contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450. If you have a hearing or speech impairment, call the National Relay Service on 133 677.
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Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated more than 433,300 Australians living with dementia, and the more than 1.7 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.
For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au
Media contact: Andrea Hogan, Media Relations and Communications Manager, [email protected], 0406 904 118
When talking or writing about dementia please refer to Dementia-Friendly Language Guidelines.
Note to Editors: We request, where possible, details for the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 appear alongside news stories about dementia, as these stories often prompt questions or concerns:
If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.