Born in Croatia, Marko speaks English in the mornings, but as the day progresses, he gradually switches back to his native Croatian. At first, the care team believed he was deliberately choosing not to speak English, leading to frustration and distress for Marko.

Marko’s experience reflects the broader findings from a study published in BMC Geriatrics by Edith Cowan University in partnership with HammondCare’s The Dementia Centre. The research, ‘Comparing clinico-demographics and neuropsychiatric symptoms for immigrant and non-immigrant aged care residents living with dementia’, highlights the importance of developing care approaches that support residents from all cultural backgrounds.

Using data from government-funded Dementia Support Australia, the study compared the prevalence of behaviours impacting on care for non-English-speaking immigrants, English-speaking immigrants and non-immigrants.

It is estimated that of the 132,000 people with dementia diagnoses living in residential care in Australia, at least 21 per cent are immigrants from non-English-speaking countries. The study showed that this cohort often experiences increased levels of agitation and aggression, often due to communication and cultural barriers.

‘Cognitive decline can impact both the ability to express and comprehend spoken language,’ explains study co-author Dr Mustafa Atee. ‘For those who lose their ability to communicate in English, their first language often becomes the primary means of communication. This can lead to care needs not being communicated effectively.’

Kirsty, a Dementia Centre Advisor at The Dementia Centre, worked closely with the care team to help them understand that Marko’s ability to speak English diminishes as the day goes on, a common occurrence in people with dementia. ‘By getting to know Marko as an individual and observing his routines, we developed strategies to communicate with him in a way that reduces his distress,’ she explains.

‘Simple things can make a big difference. Marko used to play lawn bowls at the local Croatian sports club and now enjoys a game of indoor bowling.’ 

The study findings emphasise the importance of developing care strategies that support residents from diverse cultural backgrounds, ensuring their health and wellbeing needs are met in a way that respects their life experiences and expectations of ageing well.

Through stories like Marko’s, we see how understanding and respecting the unique needs of people living with dementia can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all residents.