Don’t scare elderly, value them
The majority of older people will “never develop dementia”, a New South Wales-based psychiatrist has claimed. “If an older person doesn’t seem to be thinking clearly, it is more likely to be related to depression or anxiety, medications or a physical illness,” Dr Roderick McKay says.
The majority of older people will “never develop dementia”, a New South Wales-based psychiatrist has claimed.
“If an older person doesn’t seem to be thinking clearly, it is more likely to be related to depression or anxiety, medications or a physical illness,” Dr Roderick McKay, chair of the Faculty of Psychiatry of Old Age, says.
Dr McKay’s recent warning to the House of Representatives Inquiry into Dementia in Newcastle came following concerns that “undue fears of dementia” are at risk of ruining their parents’ later years.
“Jumping to conclusions can result in unnecessary stress and worry and may scare some people into not seeing a doctor as early as they should,” he says.
Australians are now living longer than ever, and the population is ageing.
“However, in emphasising the importance of preparing our society to meet the needs of these people, we seem to risk forgetting that most Australians will not develop dementia, at any age,” he says.
According to Dr McKay, many older Australians age wisely and “we should value and support this”.
“We should be a society that expects people to age wisely, recognises the ongoing contribution of older people and is quick to provide support when it is required.”
