Telling family and friends
On your timeline, in your words.
There is no requirement to tell anyone. There is also no requirement to keep it secret. Most families settle into something in between, told gradually, in their own time.
Tell the inner circle first
Partner, children, siblings, closest friends. Tell them in person if you can. Keep it simple: “The doctors have confirmed it’s dementia. We don’t know exactly how things will unfold, but we wanted you to know.”
Then the wider circle, slowly
You don’t have to make a big announcement. Mention it as it comes up. Many people prefer to tell extended family and friends as part of normal conversation, rather than as “news.”
Some people will surprise you with their kindness. Others will pull away because they don’t know what to say. Both are normal and neither is your fault.
Telling kids and grandkids
Be honest, simple, and tailored to their age. “Grandma has an illness called dementia. It means her memory is going to get worse over time, and sometimes she might forget us or get confused. She still loves us. We can still visit her.”
Reassure them that nothing they did caused it, that they can’t catch it, and that it’s okay to feel sad or scared.
Telling an employer
If the person diagnosed is still working, this is their decision and theirs alone. Younger-onset dementia in particular brings up complex issues around employment, income protection, and superannuation insurance. Dementia Australia has specialist advisers who can help you think through it.
Dementia Australia — support and advice
Call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (Mon–Fri 8am–8pm, Sat–Sun 10am–4pm AEST).
Younger Onset Dementia
Specialist resources and advisers.
See all 53 guides in Care & end of life →
From bluetulipco.com/library/end-of-life/telling-others — printed 1 October 2026.
General information only — not a substitute for legal, medical, financial, or therapeutic advice. Read the full disclaimer.
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