Greek Australian families living with dementia will have the opportunity to hear from medical, legal and aged-care experts this Sunday, 14 September, at Oakleigh Grammar, during Fronditha Care’s forum An Open Discussion on Dementia – The personal, social and legal impact of dementia and what you need to know.
The free community event will run from 11.30am to 1.30pm, offering practical guidance on the challenges of dementia, from diagnosis and treatment to care, decision-making and legal planning.
A panel of experts
The forum brings together leading professionals:
- Dr Athanasios (Arthur) Kokkinias, Psychiatrist and Secretary of the Hellenic Medical Society of Australia
- Georgia Tzembetzis, Quality and Clinical Manager, Fronditha Care
- Chris Dolkas, Director, RND Lawyers Pty Ltd
- Mandy Ha, Learning Designer, Dementia Australia
Understanding the journey
Dr Kokkinias told Neos Kosmos that the event will benefit both those concerned they may be developing dementia and the children and spouses of people already affected. “It’s incredibly common in Melbourne’s Greek-speaking community due to our demographics,” he said.
His presentation will cover the different types of dementias, their consequences, and available treatments, while also highlighting the toll on carers.
Facing care with knowledge
For Fronditha Care’s Georgia Tzembetzis, knowledge is key to preparation. “Families are often unprepared when their loved one enters care. It’s a milestone, a shocking event,” she said.
“Life doesn’t end with dementia, but families need to adapt to the changes in personality and behaviour.” She stressed the importance of preserving the decision-making dignity of people with dementia, rather than overprotecting them.
The legal dimension
Lawyer Chris Dolkas will focus on wills and powers of attorney, warning families not to delay. “Acting before dementia progresses protects the dignity of the individual and provides clarity for families,” he said.
With increasing institutional requirements and the risk of elder abuse, Dolkas stressed the need for up-to-date documentation.
A vital community resource
Together, the panel will explore dementia from medical, social, and legal angles. Families will learn how to partner with healthcare teams, preserve autonomy, and plan ahead to ease the burden.
“This is not the end, but a different kind of life,” said Tzembetzis. “With the right knowledge and support, families don’t face the journey of dementia alone.”
Event details: An Open Discussion on Dementia – The personal, social and legal impact of dementia and what you need to know
When: Sunday 14 September @ 11.30am – 1.30pm
Where: Conference Centre, Oakleigh Grammar, 77/81 Willesden Rd, Oakleigh VIC 3166
Bookings: here
