The Gunnedah Shire Access Working Group supported a free screening at The Civic to bring awareness to dementia last week.
Nansie is an Australian documentary following two sisters as they take care of their grandmother with a dementia diagnosis. It highlights the challenges as the condition progresses and the difficult decisions the family makes.
People gathered to learn more but also to have some questions answered.
Invited to be involved was Dementia Australia, with spokesperson Clare Coyle answering questions after the screening. Before the movie had even started she had three inquiries.
“We need to break down the stigma of dementia,” Clare said.
“For communities to do these events, it is absolutely fantastic.
“It is great we are creating that awareness and we need to keep that going.”
Clare also reminded people they are not alone.
“We have services out there,” she said.
“Especially through our own dementia helpline but also locally there are a lot of services available.”
Cementing the importance of awareness, she mentioned dementia is the largest cause of death in Australia.
Working group chair Colleen Fuller said it was important for all to learn about the brain condition, regardless of age.
“We need to be prepared for the future we hold,” she said, whether that be for oneself, or someone loved.
“I think that most importantly [when] as we say awareness – don’t be frightened of what’s ahead of you.
“Prepare your journey”
The group will aim to bring awareness to other disabilities as well.
“[The working group is] keen to do as much as we can in all areas for disabilities,” she said.
