Caring for parents living with dementia while continuing to work can be an incredibly challenging balancing act, something many people experience but few talk about openly.

Caring for someone with dementia can be physically and emotionally demanding. If you burn out, it becomes harder to give the support and love your partner, family member or friend needs.

When someone you care about is diagnosed with dementia, it is completely natural to feel a mix of emotions – fear, confusion, sadness, or even relief that there is now an explanation for the changes you have noticed.

Apathy is often described as a state of emotional flatness or disconnection. Someone who once enjoyed hobbies, conversation or social gatherings may suddenly withdraw, avoiding activities they once loved.

One of the more challenging aspects for carers is managing changes in day-to-day behaviour, which can sometimes appear suddenly or without clear explanation.

The Royce Simmons Foundation is urging greater access to essential allied health services, such as speech pathology and occupational therapy, to help people living with dementia maintain their quality of life.