Episode 10: Dr Arooge Shafi – Australia Versus Dementia

In this episode, Alex sits down with Dr. Arooge Shafi, who is part of a pioneering multidisciplinary cognition clinic aimed at identifying and treating early-stage cognitive decline. With dementia now overtaking cardiovascular disease as the leading cause of death in Australia, this conversation couldn’t be more timely.

Key Topics & Timestamps:

[0:58] Introduction — Dr. Arooge Shafi’s background as a rehabilitation medicine specialist based in Sydney, working across hospital and community settings.

[1:25] What is rehabilitation medicine? — Dr. Arooge Shafi explains how rehab specialists help patients regain independence after illness or injury through a multidisciplinary allied health team, including physios and OTs.

[3:54] The cognition clinic — An overview of the new multidisciplinary cognition clinic in Sydney, its aims, and Dr. Shafi’s role as the first point of assessment.

[4:58] Signs of mild cognitive impairment — What subtle early warning signs to look for in loved ones and when to seek a GP referral.

[7:21] The multidisciplinary team — How rehabilitation specialists, neurologists, and cardiologists work together, including the link between cardiovascular risk factors and dementia.

[9:21] Dementia statistics in Australia — Dementia is now the leading cause of death; 1 in 12 Australians over 65 affected, rising to 40% after age 90.

[11:24] How anti-amyloid infusions work — Targeting abnormal amyloid protein in the brain to slow cognitive decline; an 18-month treatment program monitored closely by the care team.

[12:50] Side effects & monitoring — ARIA (brain swelling) is the key side effect; regular MRI scans and close monitoring are essential throughout treatment.

[14:07] Cost of treatment — Currently not on the PBS; single infusion around $1,100, with full treatment estimated at $30,000–$40,000.

[15:00] Reducing dementia risk at any age — Healthy lifestyle, controlled blood pressure and cholesterol, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and alcohol all play a role.

Key Takeaways:

• Dementia now overtakes heart disease as Australia’s #1 cause of death.
• 1 in 12 Australians over 65 will develop dementia; the risk rises to 40% after age 90.
• Early intervention is key — the cognition clinic focuses on catching decline early.
• New anti-amyloid infusions can slow cognitive decline by up to 18 months.
• A healthy lifestyle, controlled blood pressure and cholesterol, and avoiding smoking/alcohol all reduce dementia risk.
• The clinic brings together rehab specialists, neurologists, and cardiologists under one roof.