Dementia sufferers often feel isolated
Dementia Action Week was September 19 to 25 and, as it theme says, "a little support can make a big difference".
Although we do not have an exact figure for the Central Coast, we do know that one third of the National count live in NSW - close to 162,000 - a number that is set to double in the next 25 years.
With the latest Census statistics showing that the Peninsula population median age is 47 compared to the national average of 37, we are likely to have higher rates of dementia than in many other parts of Australia.
We are extremely fortunate to have three aged care homes on the Peninsula, which accommodate people living with dementia, but we also know that around 65 per cent of those with dementia continue to live in the community, and often feel isolated because of the stigma and discrimination associated with the condition.
In 2018, the Central Coast Dementia Alliance was formed with the aim "to work together to increase understanding of dementia and to improve the wellbeing of people living with dementia, their carers and families".
This dedicated group of people continue working towards their goal, and this year have completed an education day for health professionals, the development of a toolkit for clinicians, information and awareness sessions with community groups, and a mail out to all primary schools on the Coast of two books written specifically for younger children.
The Alliance is also about to launch a free guide to dementia services and support on the Central Coast for people living with dementia and their carers.
Doctors will be able to obtain copies of this guide through the Alliance.
Amongst the information in this guide are details of the Rotary Dementia Cafes, where people living in the community with their carers can come along and participate in dementia friendly social activities.
The flagship cafe at the CWA hall in Umina is shortly to be joined by a second Rotary DCaf at the Kincumber Neighbourhood Centre.
How can the community help people living with dementia to remain active in the community?
As the theme for Dementia Awareness Week tells us: "A little support makes a big difference".
By everyone having a better understanding of dementia and seeing that a purposeful life can continue after diagnosis, discrimination and its impacts can be eliminated.
To learn more about dementia and how you can help to make the Central Coast a more dementia friendly-community, and to organise a presentation to your Community Groups, email Central-Coast-Dementia-Alliance@hneccphn.com.au.
For more information about the Rotary Dementia Cafe in Umina, contact Di on 0404 147 743.
SOURCE:
Email, 15 Sep 2022
Bobby Redman, Daleys Point