The conversations of life

NSW aged care provider offers free support program for dementia carers

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Called ‘Caring for the Carer’, Scalabrini Village will host the free six-week pilot program in Sydney from 1 November to provide information and support for people who are caring for a loved one with dementia.

According to Dementia Australia, there are around 413,000 people living with dementia across Australia. The majority rely on a carer to support them and there are now over 200,000 of us providing this care.

The program will cover topics including:

  • What is dementia, disease progression and changes in behaviour
  • Practical strategies to care for loves one at home including how to establish meaningful relationships and communication
  • Self-care, relaxation and managing emotions
  • How the aged care system works, community services, and planning ahead for legal issues and financials

Help at hand

Participants will be able to ask questions, meet other carers and talk about their situation in an understanding environment.

Scalabrini’s Dementia Excellence Clinical Consultant Sharonne Pearce

Scalabrini’s Dementia Excellence Clinical Consultant Sharonne Pearce tells us the program is designed for people living in the community.

“We know that people often end up coming into care because the impact of living and caring for someone at home can cause issues in a family,” she said.

“So this will provide them with the strategies they need to keep them physically and emotionally well and ensure they are better supported.”

We think it’s a great idea. As someone who has cared for a parent with dementia, I can say having the right advice – and someone to talk to – is invaluable.

For more details, see below.

Where: The Boathouse – 1A Lyons Rd Drummoyne NSW 2047

When:    Every Wednesday from 1 November – 13 December

AM Sessions 11:00am–12:30pm

PM Sessions 7:00pm–8:30pm

Book:     Call 1800 722 52 or email enquiries@scalabrini.com.au

With a background in nursing, Annie has spent over 20 years working in the health industry, including the coordination of medical support for international TV productions and major stadium events, plus education campaigns with a number of national health organisations. In recent years, she has also taken time out of the workforce to be a full-time carer, giving her first-hand experience of the challenges and rewards of this role.


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