Dementia support in the Limestone Coast
Support for people living with dementia
Across the Limestone Coast, the population is rapidly ageing. According to census data, between 2011–2016, there was a 21% increase in people aged 65 years and over in the Naracoorte/Lucindale Local Government Area.
Based on research about the prevalence of dementia in the older population, this means that regionally, approximately 500 people are estimated to be living with dementia.
‘Whilst most people with dementia are older, it is important to remember that not all older people get dementia. It is not a normal part of ageing,’ says Liz Southall, Manager Resthaven Limestone Coast Community Services.
‘However, for those who are living with dementia, Resthaven Limestone Coast Community Services can support you to live for as long as possible in your home and community, knowing that these familiar environments are important to you.’
‘Early signs of dementia may include memory loss, confusion, personality change, and the declining ability to perform everyday tasks. However, as these ‘symptoms’ could be related to something other than dementia, it is always a good idea to speak with the doctor.’
‘Resthaven is a specialist aged care service provider, and our staff are very experienced in supporting people living with these symptoms.’
‘One of our most popular services is our day and overnight respite cottage at 914 Pavy Drive, Naracoorte, where we can offer carers of older people a break from their caring role.’
‘People who come to stay with us receive one on one, personalised, round the clock care, giving their carers great peace of mind.’
‘We keep their regular, daily routines exactly as they would have them at home, which is important for people with some memory loss and confusion.’
‘Home style meals are cooked fresh on site, specifically catering for personal preferences and dietary requirements.’
‘The homely accommodation is very comfortable, and meaningful activities are on offer, according to each person’s individual preferences.’
‘Staff can provide transport support, picking up the person having respite directly from their home, and bringing them back again after their stay – from anywhere throughout the Limestone Coast. This transport is really important for carers who do not want to travel a long distance.’
‘For carers needing to go away for a few days, go to hospital themselves, or just needing some time out to themselves to catch up with family and friends, and chores, this is a great service.’
‘As all our staff are screened and provided with comprehensive support and training, including in dementia care, we can offer great peace of mind to carers,’ Liz explains.
‘For more information about our respite services, or our wide range of in-home support or group outings, please phone Resthaven Limestone Coast Community Services on 8762 4389 to speak with our friendly team.’
Resthaven is a provider of Commonwealth home support services, (Home Care Packages, Commonwealth Home Support Programme services, Veterans Home Care, and Veterans Community Nursing services), as well as high quality residential aged care at Mount Gambier and eleven other locations.
Resthaven was named 2018 South Australian ‘Aged Care Provider of the Year’ by peak industry body, Aged and Community Services Australia, and received Better Practice Commendation Awards from the Australian Aged Care Quality Agency (AACQA) in 2016, 2017, and 2018. In 2017, Resthaven received an inaugural National Innovation & Excellence Award Win for ‘Wellness and Reablement in Home Care’ from AACQA.