People with dementia may have other chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Make sure you visit your GP and specialists regularly for check-ups, take your medications correctly and follow their lifestyle advice. A healthy lifestyle, including exercise, eating and drinking well, and getting enough rest will help with most chronic diseases.
People with dementia are at higher risk of getting other health conditions such as delirium, incontinence, visual problems, dental problems and frailty. Have regular check-ups with the dentist, optometrist, podiatrist, audiologist and other health professionals. Be on the lookout for changes in your health and how you feel, and see your doctor.
- This resource has more information about dementia and other health issues.
See your doctor, dentist, optometrist and audiologist
Have regular check-ups and follow the advice of your health professional(s). If you are over 75 years make sure you are getting your annual 75+ health assessment.
Ask your GP
If you have dementia, and/or other chronic diseases, ask your GP to help you develop a Chronic Disease Management Plan and then access subsidised visits to allied health services such as physiotherapists and dietitians.
If you are aged 75 years or older, you’re entitled to have an annual, in-depth health assessment with a practice nurse and GP. The health assessment provides a structured way to identify and treat new or existing health issues and consider lifestyle changes that could improve your quality of life.
