Assessment & Support in Australia

If you notice persistent changes in thinking, memory, mood, or behaviour, it’s important to seek professional guidance. Early assessment can help identify underlying causes and guide appropriate support.

Step 1 — Speak to Your General Practitioner (GP)

Your GP is the first point of contact for concerns about cognitive function or neurological changes. They may:

• Review your medical history and lifestyle factors

• Conduct basic cognitive screening

• Recommend further tests or referrals if needed

Step 2 — Specialist Referral

Depending on assessment outcomes, your GP may refer you to specialists such as:

• Neurologists

• Geriatricians

• Neuropsychologists

• Memory clinics

Specialist assessment helps clarify causes of cognitive changes and informs management or intervention strategies.

Step 3 — Support Services

Australia offers a variety of services to support brain health, both for individuals experiencing cognitive changes and for carers:

• Community health services: Educational programs, support groups, and counselling

• Government services: My Aged Care may provide access to in-home support or respite care if cognitive changes affect daily life

• Online resources and apps: Tools like BrainTrack can help monitor cognitive changes over time

Understanding available services and pathways helps individuals and families plan and access the right support when needed.

Step 4 — Trusted Resources

For further guidance and reliable information:

1. Dementia Australia — Brain Health & Dementia Information
   • Brain health overview and strategies for supporting cognitive function.
2. National Dementia Helpline (free, confidential)
   • 24/7 support for information, advice, and referrals.
3. Dementia Australia Library Guides
   • A comprehensive library with collections on brain health, dementia types, caregiving, and more.
4. Dementia Australia — About Dementia
   • Clear educational content on dementia symptoms, causes, and support in Australia.
5. BrainTrack (cognition app)
   • Free app that helps monitor changes in thinking and memory over time.
6. Brain Foundation — Healthy Brain Resources
   • General information on lifestyle factors that support brain health.
7. Australian Government — About Dementia
   • Government-sourced public health information.

Important Note:
This service is educational. It does not provide clinical diagnosis or treatment. If you have urgent concerns, contact your GP or emergency services immediately.