Supporting local primary care in the management of advanced dementia

This month, the PHN facilitated its Management of Advanced Dementia workshop in partnership with Infinity Specialists.

The event, which was implemented to support local primary care when dealing with their dementia patients, was attended by over 50 GPs and nurse practitioners.

On the night, insightful presentations were made by Infinity Specialists’ Dr Linson Alapatt, MBBS FRACP (Geriatrician), and Dr Lemya Abdalla, Geriatrician, MBBS, MRCP(UK), FRACP.

This involved conversations regarding prescribing, and covering topics with relevant case studies, which included:

• Update and summary about type and prevalence of Dementia
• Identification of the difference between Mild Cognitive Impairment versus Dementia
• Underlying aetiologies of the different types of Dementia
• Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia
• Medication Rationalisation in patients with Dementia
• Common RACF issues relevant to General Practice in Dementia

West Moreton is the fastest growing region in Queensland and our population is ageing rapidly. By 2026, our general population is forecast to grow by 30%, while the portion of people aged 65 and older is expected to increase by 50% (to more than 60,000 people).

Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia, and with an ageing population the Darling Downs West Moreton PHN has identified improving the health of older Australians as a key priority.

The ageing of our population means an increased number of people living with dementia. This means that more services and supports are needed to help older Australians enjoy a better quality of life.

The PHN is committed to improving resources and training in this area, working on an aged care strategy for our region, Feel Well Live Well, and collaborating with key peak bodies to identify gaps that the PHN could fill.

The PHN’s current Project ECHO Older Persons Series is focused on dementia awareness, and is open to health professionals in the West Moreton and Darling Downs region caring for older persons in any capacity.

There are still two sessions left in this series, with the next session on Tuesday, 16 April focussed on Pain Management in Dementia. Register now to get involved.