New look into dementia and suicide in the community

Priority issues papers looking into dementia and suicide in Gippsland have been released.

According to Gippsland Primary Health Network that researched and produced the papers dementia accounts for an average of 171 deaths each year in the region.

The illness is the second highest cause of death among females in Gippsland and the sixth highest cause in men.

Chief executive officer Amanda Proposch said the number of people in the region with dementia was expected to double over the next 30 years, from an estimated 7500 last year to 13,780 in 2058.

Last year's figure included an estimated 438 people under 65 years of age that have younger onset dementia while 40 per cent of those living in aged care facilities had a dementia diagnosis.

Ms Proposch said the issues paper drew on data and information from many sources including local community and health professionals and feedback from people living with dementia and their carers.

Carers and family members said support after diagnosis was needed to help carers and people living with sufferers to adapt while, for those with dementia, staying fit, well and connected was important in helping them cope especially when they had concerns for their future and losing their independence.

The suicide issues paper highlighted the impact of suicide on families, friends and communities.

It outlined safety factors including clinical care and intervention, support through medical and mental health care, connections to families and the community, problem solving skills and dispute resolution.

The full issues papers can be viewed at https://gphn.org.au/resources/