Work can be a big part of life–financially, socially, and personally–so deciding when and how to tell an employer about a dementia diagnosis can feel daunting. Whether you are the person with young-onset dementia or the carer, early planning and knowing your rights at work can make the process easier.
If you are the person with young-onset dementia
Australian workplace laws protect employees with a disability (including dementia) from discrimination, and support requests for reasonable adjustments. Your employer cannot end your employment simply because of your diagnosis.
Depending on your work role, you may be able to keep working with some changes. Supportive employers might offer job redesign, flexible hours, or a move to a different position that fits your skills. Others may have fewer options, so it’s worth discussing possibilities early, including a gradual transition to retirement if that feels right for you.
If your company has a Human Resources (HR) department, they can explain your rights and help you plan conversations with your manager.
You may also consider sharing your diagnosis with colleagues, especially if they’ve noticed changes in your work. Explaining what’s happening and how they can support you can reduce misunderstandings and negative assumptions.
Read Wendy Mitchell’s blog about telling her diagnosis to her colleagues.
If you are a carer
You may need flexibility in your own work to provide the level of care and support you want to give to your person with dementia. Australian employment laws require employers to consider requests for flexible working arrangements and provide carers leave or compassionate leave. Federal anti-discrimination laws also protect carers from being treated unfairly because of caring responsibilities.
Many organisations have a carer strategy or policy that helps employees balance work and care. Human Resources staff can explain any internal supports and your legal entitlements. Communicating early with your employer allows time to plan for job redesign, extended leave, or a staged return to work if needed.
If balancing work and care becomes too difficult even with these supports, (especially if you are self-employed) you may be eligible for Australian Government Carer Payments, discussed in more detail in Section 5.5 Types of Services. The Carer Gateway provides information on financial help, counselling, and other services.
Contact Carer Gateway
For carers, contact the Carer Gateway for more information
The Australian Rights Commission has information about disability action plans on their website.
Photo: Priscilla Du Preez via Unsplash.
