Recognise signs, seek support this Dementia Action Week

Frank and Lorraine Stuart are navigating their own dementia journey. Photo: Evie Lamb.

Frank Stuart’s Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis has challenged him, but it hasn’t stopped him living a full and active life.

“The first most confronting issue is lack of independence,” Stuart said.

“Probably the biggest setback for me was not being able to drive.”

During Dementia Action Week until 27 September, Stuart and his wife Lorraine are sharing their personal journey through the confronting experience, to help other Ballarat locals recognise the signs and seek support sooner rather than later.

“I was diagnosed in 2023, and we’ve had to adjust our daily life and lead a new lifestyle,” Stuart said.

Adapting to their new reality has been difficult for the active retired couple who loved caravanning the length and breadth of Australia, particularly as everyday tasks became more challenging.