A new public health campaign is being launched in South-Western Sydney to support members of Arabic-speaking communities to recognise the signs of dementia, reduce stigma, and seek timely help from their local doctor.

Led by the University of Sydney in partnership with trusted multicultural organisations, the ‘Facing Dementia Together’ campaign will run over 18 months. It also supports Chinese and Vietnamese speaking communities across the region. It includes free community education sessions, translated resources, and culturally sensitive materials to reduce stigma and promote early diagnosis. To break down dementia stigma, the campaign will be adopting the English term for Dementia rather than the Arabic term ‘kharaf’ which is used to mean ‘insanity’ or ‘idiocy’ amongst speakers of Arabic.  

“In our research, some members of the Arabic-speaking community described dementia as a source of shame – something to be hidden, or managed quietly within the family,” says Professor Lee-Fay Low, Professor in Ageing and Health at the University of Sydney.

“Others believed there was no point going to the doctor, because they thought nothing could be done. But dementia is a brain disease. A timely diagnosis helps people access support and plan for the future. It’s not something to be ashamed of.”

Arabic-speaking participants in the campaign’s focus groups said they would often try to offer support to the person from within the family before turning to medical help. Some said they would only see a doctor if there was a crisis, or if the person with symptoms became a risk to themselves or others.

“We want to gently shift these beliefs,” says Professor Low. “Families and communities are key – they can help break the silence and encourage their loved ones to get help early.”

Aisha Kenawy, Arabic-speaking researcher and campaign officer, says that many families struggle between wanting to protect their loved ones’ dignity and recognising when medical help is needed.

“In our community, people think that people diagnosed with dementia have to go into nursing homes, but the reality is that the majority of people living with dementia continue to live in the community. A diagnosis means that their families can get information about how to take care of their loved ones with dignity, understanding, and the right support. That starts with talking to your doctor”.

Dr Serge Geara, Neurologist at Northen Beaches Hospital and active board member of the Australian Lebanese Medical Association (ALMA), says both GPs and community organisations have an important role to play. 

“A GP assessment of patient’s symptoms and progression are paramount to patient care. Having a thorough initial assessment can help specialists better diagnose and treat dementia,” says Dr. Geara. “I want to encourage our Arabic community to support each other — if you notice a change in someone close to you, gently suggest they speak to their doctor. We don’t need to wait for a crisis. GPs can guide the next steps and connect people to support services.”

The campaign also features stories of real people, including that of Sanna, a Lebanese Australian woman whose mother lived with dementia. 

“To me, taking care of my mother was to keep her comfortable, but when her memory of me began to disappear, I started looking into dementia,” Sanna recalls. “After my mother’s diagnosis, we were not given any resources or linked with any services, not even a Dementia Australia flyer, the one organisation that everyone should know about.”

“I attended a workshop about dementia and the advice I received helped me learn how to connect with her. Ever since, I became passionate about learning about dementia and spreading that knowledge in the community. I want others in the community to know – don’t wait for a crisis. Talk to your doctor early.” 

The Facing Dementia Together campaign includes an Arabic-language symptoms checklist, brain health tips, real stories, and in-language videos designed to open up discussion and make it easier to talk with GPs.

Find the Arabic-language dementia resources at:
https://facingdementiatogether.au/ar/