Age Compass

Deborah Jane
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Dementia is not a normal part of ageing. So, what can we do to age well? And what can we do to modify our risk of getting a diagnosis of dementia?In these bite size, light-hearted episodes we'll cover the topics we need to be talking about to make sure we age well.Why you ask? Because I learned about ageing and dementia the hard way; caring for my mum after her dementia diagnosis and losing both my parents far too young. It completely changed the direction of my life. I went on to study dementia at university and have now built a career walking alongside people living with the diagnosis.This podcast is my way of sharing the things I wish someone had told me. I want to make the world of ageing and dementia lighter, kinder, and far less confusing so you don’t have to learn it the hard way too.I’ve lived it, studied it, and now work in it. And I want us to navigate ageing and dementia together, so you know you’re not alone.

  1. 1d ago

    Will I Get Alzheimer's Disease If My Parent Had It? How Much Do Genes Really Matter?

    If a close family member developed Alzheimer's disease, does that mean it's in your future too? After caring for my mum, it's a question I've asked myself as well. If your parent has Alzheimer's disease, you may have wondered: Will I get Alzheimer's too?  Does Alzheimer's run in families? Is Alzheimer's hereditary? And how much does family history actually influence your risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or dementia? In this episode, we explore the connection between Alzheimer's, genetics, and family history. We unpack the difference between genetic risk and genetic certainty, explain what the ApoE4 gene actually means, discuss whether genetic testing is worth considering, and look at why there's far more to dementia risk than the DNA we inherit. You'll learn what current research says about Alzheimer's risk and dementia prevention, and how lifestyle factors may influence long-term brain health. Because while our genes are part of our story, they certainly don't get to write the whole book. Lancet Commission Link for dementia risk: https://www.thelancet.com/infographics-do/dementia-risk Send us Fan Mail

    Will I Get Alzheimer's Disease If My Parent Had It? How Much Do Genes Really Matter?

  2. Oct 27

    What a Palliative Care Nurse Wants You to Know (Part 3): Talking About What Matters Most

    Many of us know we should talk about our end-of-life wishes, but few of us know where to start. In the final part of this three-part conversation, I sit down with an experienced palliative care nurse to discuss why conversations about death, dying, advance care planning and end-of-life care matter, and how sharing what's important to us can make things a little easier for the people we love. We explore the difference between an Advance Care Plan and an Advance Care Directive, practical ways to start conversations about end-of-life wishes, and why making healthcare and quality-of-life decisions before a crisis can help reduce stress and uncertainty for families. Jo also shares her insights from years in palliative care, including why planning ahead, talking openly about death and dying, and documenting your wishes can be one of the greatest gifts you leave the people you love. Whether you're planning ahead for yourself, supporting an ageing parent, caring for a loved one, or simply wondering how to start a conversation about end-of-life planning, this episode is a gentle reminder that these discussions don't have to begin at the end of life. Because talking about the end of life is ultimately about how we want to live. Send us Fan Mail

    What a Palliative Care Nurse Wants You to Know (Part 3): Talking About What Matters Most

  3. Oct 27

    What a Palliative Care Nurse Wants You to Know (Part 2): Choice, Control and Voluntary Assisted Dying

    What is voluntary assisted dying, and who is eligible to access it in Australia? In part two of this conversation, I sit down with an experienced palliative care nurse who now works in voluntary assisted dying (VAD) to explore one of the most discussed and misunderstood topics in end-of-life care. We discuss the process of voluntary assisted dying, the safeguards built into Australia's VAD laws, and why some people with a terminal illness choose to explore this option. Jo also shares what she hears from patients facing the end of life, including the importance of choice, autonomy, dignity and maintaining a sense of control during a deeply personal time. Through a powerful real-life story, we explore what a planned death can look like, why some people describe voluntary assisted dying as empowering, and how having choices at the end of life can bring comfort, peace and reassurance to both individuals and their families. Whether you're interested in voluntary assisted dying, palliative care, end-of-life choices, dying with dignity, or simply want to better understand this evolving area of healthcare, this episode offers a thoughtful and compassionate perspective. Because for many people facing a terminal illness, it's not about choosing between life and death. It's about having a voice in how they die. Send us Fan Mail

    What a Palliative Care Nurse Wants You to Know (Part 2): Choice, Control and Voluntary Assisted Dying

  4. Oct 26

    What a Palliative Care Nurse Wants You to Know (Part 1): What Palliative Care Really Means

    Death is something we will all face, yet it's one of the topics many of us find hardest to discuss. So why do conversations about death and dying feel so uncomfortable? In part one of this three-part conversation, I sit down with an experienced palliative care nurse to explore why so many people avoid talking about death, how modern healthcare has changed our relationship with dying, and why planning ahead matters. We also unpack one of the most common misconceptions about palliative care. Is palliative care only for the final days of life, or can it help people live well for much longer? Jo explains how palliative care focuses on quality of life, symptom management and supporting both people with a life-limiting illness and the families who care for them. We also discuss anticipatory grief, the realities of caring for an ageing parent or loved one at home, navigating My Aged Care, and why carers need support too. Whether you're supporting someone with a terminal illness, caring for an ageing parent, or simply want to better understand palliative care and end-of-life care, this episode offers practical insights and compassionate advice. Because palliative care isn't just about dying. It's about helping people live as well as possible for as long as possible. Send us Fan Mail

    What a Palliative Care Nurse Wants You to Know (Part 1): What Palliative Care Really Means

  5. Oct 20

    Help Me Understand Behaviour Changes in Dementia: Why Are They Happening?

    Behaviour changes associated with dementia can be some of the most challenging experiences for families, care staff and people living with dementia themselves. Why can a person with dementia suddenly become angry, agitated, tearful, aggressive, or begin wandering? Why might someone with Alzheimer's disease refuse care, yell out, or seem like they've become a different person? In this episode, we explore some of the most common behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), including agitation, aggression, wandering, yelling, declining care, and personality changes. More importantly, we look at what these behaviours may be trying to communicate. While a behaviour can be challenging for those around the person, it may also be a genuine attempt to communicate an unmet need. Through real-world dementia care examples, I explain why curiosity is one of the most important tools we have when supporting a person living with dementia. Is the person frightened? In pain? Lonely? Grieving? Bored? Trying to maintain a sense of purpose? Or struggling to communicate in a world that no longer makes sense to them? Whether you're caring for a parent with dementia, supporting someone living with Alzheimer's disease, working in aged care, or simply trying to better understand dementia-related behaviours, this episode offers practical insights and a compassionate perspective. If you've ever found yourself asking, "Why are they doing this?", this episode will encourage you to consider a different question: "What might they be trying to tell me?" Send us Fan Mail

    Help Me Understand Behaviour Changes in Dementia: Why Are They Happening?

  6. Oct 13

    What a Person with Dementia Wants You to Know (Part 3): Living Life My Way

    What is it really like to live with dementia? In the final part of this conversation, Robin shares her personal experience of living with a dementia diagnosis, including her thoughts on driving, maintaining independence, adapting to change, and focusing on what remains possible rather than what has been lost. We explore one of the most common concerns for people living with dementia and their families: driving and dementia. Robin candidly discusses the adjustments she has made to stay safe on the road while maintaining her independence and quality of life. Most importantly, Robin shares what she wants families, friends, healthcare professionals and the wider community to understand about supporting a person living with dementia. From simplifying conversations and allowing extra time to process information, to preserving dignity, connection and purpose, her insights offer valuable guidance for anyone affected by dementia. This episode is a powerful reminder that a dementia diagnosis does not change who a person is. The person is still there, with their own experiences, opinions, humour, relationships and strengths. Whether you're living with dementia, supporting a parent with dementia, caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease, or simply wanting to better understand the lived experience of dementia, Robin's wisdom, warmth and honesty provide a perspective that everyone can learn from. "Put your energy into what you can do, not into what you can't do." Because while dementia may change some things, it doesn't take away the essence of who someone is. (* Apologies for the sound of rain you'll hear in this episode). Send us Fan Mail

    What a Person with Dementia Wants You to Know (Part 3): Living Life My Way

  7. Oct 13

    What a Person with Dementia Wants You to Know (Part 2): I Have a Diagnosis, What Now?

    What happens after a dementia diagnosis? In part two of this conversation, Robin shares her honest experience of receiving a diagnosis of dementia, the emotions that followed, and how she gradually found a way forward. Rather than focusing on what she had lost, Robin began exploring practical ways to support her brain health, maintain her independence, and adapt to life with dementia. She shares the simple strategies, routines and memory aids that help her navigate everyday life, from calendars and organisational systems to building habits that work for her. We also discuss recognising your own limits, managing cognitive fatigue, and understanding why some people living with dementia find thinking, decision-making and processing information more difficult later in the day. Robin offers a personal perspective on an experience often referred to as "sundowning", describing how her brain simply becomes tired after a day of processing information and why she plans appointments and activities during the times she functions best. Robin also shares her experience with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard and explains how it can help people living with dementia and other hidden disabilities access understanding and support when they need it most. Whether you're living with dementia, supporting a family member with dementia, caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease, or looking for practical advice after a diagnosis, this episode offers valuable insight from someone navigating the experience every day. A powerful reminder that life doesn't stop after a dementia diagnosis. Sometimes it simply requires a different way forward. (* Apologies for the sound of rain you'll hear in this episode). Send us Fan Mail

    What a Person with Dementia Wants You to Know (Part 2): I Have a Diagnosis, What Now?

  8. Oct 13

    What a Person with Dementia Wants You to Know (Part 1): I Knew Something Wasn't Right

    What does it feel like to notice the early signs of dementia in yourself? In part one of this conversation, Robin shares her deeply personal journey to receiving an early diagnosis of dementia. With a strong family history of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, she began noticing subtle cognitive changes and dementia symptoms that didn't feel right, even when initial assessments suggested everything was normal. Robin candidly discusses her experience of seeking a dementia assessment, navigating uncertainty, and eventually receiving answers after pursuing further testing. She shares why having clarity mattered more to her than continuing to wonder what was happening, and how an early diagnosis of dementia allowed her to make informed decisions about her future. Most importantly, Robin explains how she chose to focus on what she could do, rather than what she might lose. From returning to activities she loved as a child, to improving her fitness, reducing alcohol, and prioritising her brain health, she shares the practical lifestyle changes that helped her move forward with purpose and optimism. This episode also explores the emotional impact of a diagnosis, life after a dementia diagnosis, and the empowering role that lifestyle changes can play in supporting wellbeing and reducing dementia risk factors. Whether you're concerned about memory changes, experiencing cognitive changes yourself, supporting a family member with dementia, or wanting to better understand the lived experience of Alzheimer's disease and dementia, Robin's story offers honesty, hope and practical insight. A powerful reminder that while a diagnosis may change the road ahead, it doesn't mean life stops. Sometimes it becomes the beginning of a very different journey. Because understanding dementia starts by listening to the person living with it. Send us Fan Mail

    What a Person with Dementia Wants You to Know (Part 1): I Knew Something Wasn't Right
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About

Dementia is not a normal part of ageing. So, what can we do to age well? And what can we do to modify our risk of getting a diagnosis of dementia?In these bite size, light-hearted episodes we'll cover the topics we need to be talking about to make sure we age well.Why you ask? Because I learned about ageing and dementia the hard way; caring for my mum after her dementia diagnosis and losing both my parents far too young. It completely changed the direction of my life. I went on to study dementia at university and have now built a career walking alongside people living with the diagnosis.This podcast is my way of sharing the things I wish someone had told me. I want to make the world of ageing and dementia lighter, kinder, and far less confusing so you don’t have to learn it the hard way too.I’ve lived it, studied it, and now work in it. And I want us to navigate ageing and dementia together, so you know you’re not alone.

Information

  • Creator
    Deborah Jane
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Age Compass
  • Show Website
    Age Compass