As the post-war cohort of Greek Australians age, dementia has become one of the most pressing health and social issues of our community. For many of us and our families, the challenge is deeply personal — second-generation Greek Australians now in the mid-50s and 60s, the children of that pioneering post-war generation, now find themselves stepping into the role of carers for their parents, and for some third generation, as grandparents.
To address this reality, Fronditha Care will present: An Open Discussion on Dementia – The personal, social and legal impact of dementia and what you need to know on Sunday, September 14, at Oakleigh Grammar. The event will bring together medical, legal and aged-care professionals to share practical insights on how families can navigate this difficult journey.
A panel of significant expertise
The discussion will feature:
Dr Athanasios Kokkinias – Psychiatrist, Secretary of the Hellenic Medical Society of Australia
Georgia Tzebetzi – Quality and Clinical Manager, Fronditha Care
Chris Dolkas – Director, RND Lawyers Pty Ltd
Mandy Ha – Learning Designer, Dementia Australia
Together, these experts will explore the condition from multiple perspectives — medical, emotional, social, and legal — providing a holistic understanding of what dementia means for individuals and their loved ones.
Beyond the diagnosis
Dementia is often misunderstood as a natural part of ageing. In reality, it is a complex syndrome with different types, symptoms, and stages. Dr Kokkinias will clarify what dementia is, how it progresses, and the importance of early diagnosis in helping families prepare for the changes ahead.
For aged care providers like Fronditha Care, the challenge goes beyond clinical treatment.
As Georgia Tzebetzi noted in the past for Neos Kosmos, dementia changes the everyday lives of residents and their families.
“There is a misconception that life ends when somebody is diagnosed with dementia. In reality, it’s a different stage of life.
“People with dementia need support, respect and dignity. Simple and little things that can make a lot of difference.”
Emotional and cultural impact
The emotional toll on families can be immense. Watching a loved one lose memory or independence is deeply distressing. Often the Greek cultural context adds complexity – strong family values mean many families feel duty-bound to provide care themselves, often without seeking outside help until burnout sets in.
Mandy Ha from Dementia Australia will highlight resources and programs that support carers, from counselling services to community education initiatives that combat stigma. She will emphasise some of the significant advanced made over the last few years which will make caring for someone with dementia a more fulfilling journey.
Legal safeguards
When deep emotions run high, families can forget the importance of legal planning, and often delay it which is a mistake. Lawyer Chris Dolkas will talk about legal planning that can take the added stress out and allow families to focus on their loved ones. t
Dolkas will emphasise the importance of early preparation, including enduring powers of attorney, guardianship arrangements, and advanced care planning. These safeguards ensure that the wishes of the person with dementia are respected while also relieving pressure on families during crises.
Protecting dignity
At the core of the discussion is powerful question: how can families protect the dignity, autonomy, and humanity of their loved ones as dementia progresses? The panel will address practical and culturally appropriate strategies — that include daily routines, social and community engagement — that can assist ensure people with dementia to build cognitive resilience and remain active participants in their own lives for as long as possible.
A community conversation
This is not just an information session — it is a chance for the Greek Australian community to engage directly with experts, ask questions, and share experiences. For families facing the reality of dementia, the event promises clarity, guidance, and reassurance.
Date: Sunday, 14 September 2025
Time: 11.30am – 1.30pm
Place: Conference Room, Oakleigh Grammar
Entry: Free – reserve your ticket here.
