 Dementia Care
Dementia is a complex, organic syndrome, which is progressive, irreversible and not a normal part of ageing.
Resthaven's Philosophy on Dementia Care
- The person with dementia is an individual with unique life experiences, and the decline in physical and cognitive status not only affects the individual and their family, but impacts upon friends, community and society.
- The person with dementia has the right to personal and environmental safety, legal and financial protection, intimacy, social interaction, preservation of dignity and a creative, fulfilling life style which recognises their spiritual needs.
- The person with dementia has contributed significantly to society, community and family during his/her lifespan, and should remain an esteemed member within these groups.
Support and services we provide to people living with dementia and their carers:
- Education and activity to support risk reduction, consistent with the Alzheimer’s Australia “Mind Your Mind” campaign. Supporting older people to be independent and active participants in their community.
- Support for people with early stage memory loss such as our “Good Thinking” group, conducted through Resthaven’s therapy services.
- Social support for people with dementia: small group and individual activities based on the person’s interests (e.g. Art Group, Snooker Group, in-home community visiting, supporting client to continue in their voluntary roles)
- In-home care (HACC level services, high and low level “packaged” care, clinical care).
- Living alone with Dementia program (HACC funded), providing advocacy, case management, in-home care, referral and support for older people with dementia who are living at home alone (Inner South metropolitan area)
- Extended Aged Care at Home (Dementia) packages (over 50 across SA): working in partnership with the person’s carers, networks, other service providers to provide services to support people with behaviours of concern related to their dementia to remain living at home.
- Support for carers of people with dementia: education, information and advocacy. Flexible respite options (in-home, centre-based, community outings, overnight community houses and residential respite)
- Liaison with regional Dementia Link Workers for referral, counselling, advocacy for clients
- Working with Alzheimer’s Australia to provide Living with Dementia courses for older people and their carers: developing a specific Living with Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease for people who have Parkinson’s (and their carers) in consultation with Alzheimer’s Australia
- Building strong resources and relationships with external organisations to enable a palliative approach to end stage dementia care, and a ‘good death’ at home for people with dementia and their carers and families. This includes the development of fact sheets for carers, following feedback from them on identified topics.
- In our residential care services, specific safe areas dedicated to providing accommodation and support to people with dementia, and activity programs tailored to individual interests and capabilities.
Dementia education program
- Resthaven has a commitment to best practice in dementia care and this is demonstrated by ensuring that all staff receive appropriate training within their roles.
- Resthaven employs a dedicated Dementia Services Advisor who provides staff and volunteers with training.
- Using Dementia Care Mapping (DCM) ongoing support is provided within each Dementia Specific Unit of the Residential Aged Care Facilities based on findings and outcomes.
Resources for carers of a person who has dementia
There are resources to help carers access timely, useful information from general practitioners and other health professionals. These include:
Other links are available from our links page.
Other publications are available from our publications page.
Need help accessing PDF documents?
Resthaven strives for ongoing improvement for the lives of those living with dementia.
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