Dementia Action Week provides an important platform to emphasize necessary policy reforms that would greatly benefit individuals living with dementia. This significant event precedes the World Organisation of National Colleges, Academies and Academic Associations of General Practitioners/Family Physicians (WONCA) world conference scheduled for 26th to 29th October 2023 in Sydney.
During the WONCA conference, various informative presentations will be conducted focusing on dementia and related topics. These include discussions on home palliative care for patients with advanced dementia, knowledge and attitudes about dementia among healthcare workers, new Australian guidelines for the appropriate use of psychotropic medications in people with dementia and those in residential aged care, as well as predicting dementia risks in primary care settings.
The RACGP, or the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, encourages all general practitioners to attend the WONCA conference. Professor Dimity Pond, a spokesperson for RACGP, emphasizes the importance of this conference as it provides an opportunity to learn and share insights on various dementia-related issues.
Chair of the RACGP Specific Interests Group on Aged Care, Dr Anthony Marinucci, stresses the need for increased awareness and support for individuals with dementia. He highlights that dementia is a common condition that GPs should be vigilant about. With the predicted rise in dementia cases among individuals aged 65 and over in Australia, it is crucial to prioritize a nationwide strategy to address the challenges faced by these individuals.
Furthermore, Dr Marinucci emphasizes the importance of combating stigma and discrimination associated with dementia, as well as recognizing the physical and psychological needs of patients. He advocates for a multidisciplinary team approach that involves diagnosis, treatment, coordination, and support to ensure that individuals with dementia receive the care and support they require.
Overall, Dementia Action Week and the upcoming WONCA conference present valuable opportunities to raise awareness, enhance understanding, and promote policy reforms that will improve the lives of individuals living with dementia.
Sources:
Royal Australian College of GPs
