Phase 2 underway in iSupport
Having been involved in the initial trial in 2019-20, Resthaven Community Services is pleased to again partner with Flinders University and Prof Lily Xiao, for the following three phases of the iSupport research project.
iSupport helps carers to understand dementia and how it may impact themselves and the person they care for. By using a set of online education modules designed to target the learning needs of carers throughout the trajectory of their journey, iSupport provides carers with additional tools to assist both themselves and the person they care for.
Resthaven Project Officer, Tanae Ormsby, has been appointed as a program facilitator to work on this project that aims to support carers with evidence based online dementia education and skills training.
Tanae says, ‘As a facilitator, I can see how important checking in with the carer is, helping them to connect with support services such as Community Respite, Carer Support Groups, Social Support Groups and other support available.’
‘For example, at Carer Support Groups, carers come together and share experiences with one another, building a strong support network for carers who feel alone in their role.’
‘Social Support Groups enable clients to meet with like-minded people to engage in activities of interest, including outings, inspiring a sense of belonging to encourage a better quality of life.’
The preliminary data analysis of phase 1 of the project identified clients were happy with the service they received from Resthaven.
Clients say, ‘I really feel that Resthaven are doing a wonderful job for us in respite and community care.’
‘I’m quite happy with what Resthaven are providing to us, we have the same person come one week and do the cleaning – the consistency is comforting.’
Tanae expands, ‘Supporting carers to educate themselves about dementia care improves their understanding and ability to manage, which in turn improves the quality of life for the person they care for, and themselves.’
‘I have thoroughly enjoyed phase 1 of this project as it’s given me a better understanding of what support carers value the most. With phase 2 underway, we will be actioning those supports to further strengthen carers in their role. I can already see the progress this is making on dementia research.’
‘iSupport is certainly making waves in the dementia sphere!’
Special acknowledgment to Medical Research Future Fund 2020 Dementia Ageing and Aged Care Mission Grants, and the 2020 Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration (DCRC) World Class Research Projects, for continuing to fund the iSupport project.
Resthaven Community Services offer a variety of respite opportunities across 17 community sites. With seven respite cottage locations around South Australia, respite services are widely accessible.
Resthaven is one of a select few providers to offer the full range of aged care services available: for details visit www.resthaven.asn.au