Taming our silent killer
This Christmas, Alzheimer’s Australia NSW is urging anybody with a family member or friend with dementia to be mindful of their symptoms and look out for changes in their condition.
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In the Albury, Cootamundra, Murray and Wagga electorates, there are an estimated 5400 people living with dementia.
That figure is projected to increase to about 10,500 by 2050.
Because holiday celebrations provide a time for families and friends to come together after what can often be long periods of time, it is in these instances that changes in thinking, memory and behaviour can seem most apparent.
That’s why this festive season we’re encouraging families to re-assess their loved one’s condition and situation. This is important in identifying what extra support might be required in light of any change in behaviours or worsening of symptoms.
If you notice changes in a loved one or have any other concerns, I urge you to call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 to speak to an expert.
Our dementia advisers are trained to listen to your concerns, and to provide compassionate, targeted support that can empower you to make key decisions and access the local services and supports that are available in your local area.
Your concerns are our concerns, so no matter how minor or major the issue, every call matters.
John Watkins, CEO – Alzheimer’s Australia NSW
Gift of giving the best
As we head into Christmas, a time where families come together to share in the love of the holiday season, I ask that you spare a thought for some of Australia’s most disadvantaged; our homeless youth.
While many young people are spending time with their family and loved ones it is easy to forget about those who have no home or family to turn to.
This time of joy for most is often a period of sadness and isolation for our disadvantaged youth who lack a sense of belonging.
Often these young people turn to alcohol and other drugs to numb these negative feelings.
These choices can lead down a slippery slope to addiction, mental health issues and family breakdown.
Youth Off The Streets helps young people address these issues though our services and outreach but sadly we cannot reach everyone in this holiday period.
This year on Christmas Day, Youth Off The Streets is providing lunch for some of our most disadvantaged young people and their families.
The simple act of providing a hot meal and a place to come together on Christmas day means so much to these families.
If you can, I encourage you to host or participate in a community event to support families and young people in your local area.
Together in this season of giving, we can provide a welcoming environment for those who may not have one this Christmas. After over 40 years of working with young disaffected youth, let me tell you that the greatest gift of all is the gift of giving.
I hope you have a fantastic holiday period and a happy new year.
Father Chris Riley, CEO and founder of Youth Off The Streets
In the line of duty
This year around 2300 Australian Defence Force personnel deployed on operations around the world will celebrate Christmas away from their families and friends.
The men and women who serve in defence of our nation make many sacrifices in the line of duty and for some this means Christmas away from home.
As we spend quality time with our families and loved ones this Christmas we should reflect on those sacrifices and be grateful for the men and women of the ADF who are prepared to keep us safe and defend our values.
