Ozcare is a leading not-for-profit organisation, providing a wide range of quality health and human services across Queensland.
Coping with Dementia
Dementia is now a major health concern in the Australian community, with recent studies describing it as epidemic.
One in six Australians with dementia live in Queensland and the incidence of dementia in Queenslanders is predicted to more than double by 2030.
For the Gold Coast, the prediction is greater than this average because of the large number of older people retiring to the region.
Ozcare Dementia Services Co-ordinator Caroline Davitt said that there are currently almost 6000 people on the Gold Coast diagnosed with dementia, and, added to those who haven’t been diagnosed, the total is estimated to be far greater.
Ozcare Gold Coast recently received Home and Community Care (HACC) funding to provide increased support to eligible people who are coping with dementia, including their carers and other service providers.
Ms Davitt said, “The service focuses on support based around the individuals with dementia to help make sure they have the best possible care, so that they maintain quality of life and independence despite the changes that are occurring in their lives.
“This means the individuals are better able to live at home, rather than having to move into a care facility.
“Caring for or working with people with dementia can be challenging and stressful.
“While the behaviour of the person with dementia can’t really be changed, much can be done to help reduce the stress.
“We provide face-to-face support for carers in their role of caring for someone with dementia, helping them to learn more about the condition, and find strategies for coping with the issues that arise.
“For example, one strategy could be to find effective ways of keeping the person with dementia occupied and active at home by involving them in appropriate levels of everyday activities such as setting the table, folding washing and raking leaves.
“We discuss what other services and resources are available on the Gold Coast to assist them, and provide referrals to specialist services when needed, as well as putting them in touch with carer support groups and others who are coping with similar situations.” Ms Davitt said.
Another aspect of the Ozcare service is the provision of one-on-one support and mentoring to other service providers and their staff who have concerns with client issues arising from dementia, such as personal care and medication management.
“There are many other HACC funded service providers on the Coast and we encourage them to take advantage of our service to complement the wonderful work they already do,” Ms Davitt said.
For more information contact Ozcare Dementia Services, phone 07 5569 6200.
