Innovative ‘staying at home’ program launched

Resthaven has launched a new government-funded program that aims to support older South Australians living with dementia to stay at home for as long as possible.

The ‘Staying at Home in Regional South Australia’ program forms part of the Government’s response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and aims to provide vital education and support to carers whilst their loved one is cared for in the same location by experienced staff.

Resthaven Project Officer, and Dementia Education Specialist, Gillian Schulze, explains, ‘It is estimated that up to 70% of people with dementia are living at home in the community with a family carer.’

‘Unfortunately, carer stress has been identified as reducing quality of life for both the carer and a person living with dementia.’

‘To address this, the Staying at Home in Regional South Australia program invites small groups of carers and the person they care for to a short-stay retreat.’

‘There, carers receive information and support, whilst the person they care for is supported by trained Resthaven staff 24/7. All meals and activities will be tailored to individual needs and preferences.’

‘By introducing education, and a wide range of support mechanisms, including regular and planned use of respite, Resthaven hopes to address the barriers that carers may face, and improve their access to and experience of respite.’

The first Resthaven Staying at Home in Regional South Australia program is planned for late August.

To enquire, email SAHRSA@resthaven.asn.au, or phone 8198 2088.