Retreat a winner for Rowena and Dennis
The sounds of a rowdy game of Uno fill the living area at Resthaven’s latest Staying at Home in Regional South Australia retreat in Stirling.
In another room, carers of people living 
with dementia are participating in a session with CarersSA, gaining support and learnings from professionals, while also sharing their own stories with other participates.
It’s all part of the fully funded program that enables people living with dementia and their carers to experience quality respite care, while also engaging with others in similar situations and gaining practical advice and training.
Rowena, 88, and Dennis, 90, are one of the five couples attending the retreat. Married for 70 years, the pair live in their own home at Hackham supported by Resthaven Onkaparinga Community Services. Three years ago, Dennis was diagnosed with dementia. Rowena is his carer.
‘It’s absolutely fabulous,’ Rowena says about the retreat. ‘I’m in perfect paradise. The staff are all lovely. I’ve learnt a lot from the sessions and it’s nice to be here with Dennis, together.’
The three-day, two-night stay has the benefit of 24/7 support from staff. This year, retreats will also be held at Hindmarsh Island, Berri, Limestone Coast and Cockatoo Valley.