As the Greek Australian population ages, more support around mental health care is needed, says Acting CEO of Fronditha aged care, Jim Scantsonihas.
Because our population is aging, there’s a higher rate of dementia.
Scantsonihas said dementia is a big issue for Fronditha Care – formerly the Australian Greek Society for Care of the Elderly.
“Because our population is aging, there’s a higher rate of dementia,” he said.
“It’s certainly increasing, and the government has to start preparing.”
The comments come as The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists released a report urgently calling for improved mental health services to meet the needs of a rapidly aging population in the wider Australian community.
Scantsonihas said Fronditha has two full dementia-specific units, and called on the government to help with the cost of added staffing for dementia patients.
“There’s not enough funding provided to look after these people,” he said.
He also called for increased awareness around dementia in Greek Australian community.
He said dementia comes in stages, and families should seek assistance early, rather than waiting till they’re in a crisis mode.
“The Greek culture is, you look after your own,” he said.
“So we’ve got husbands, wives, daughters, sons, looking after the family in their home.”
“But while they’re trying to do that, they can miss the signs.”
Scantsonihas said the most difficult part is elderly couples living in their home where one partner has dementia.
“They need support to stay in their home as long as possible,” he said.
Dr Maria Tomasic, President of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists said today, 13% of Australians are over 65.
But by 2051 that will double to 26%.
“We will have more people living longer with mental health problems, more people developing mental health problems in old age and more people with chronic diseases and mental health concerns,” she said.