Leading the way in dementia care for seniors
Around 440,000 Australians live with dementia and almost 1.5 million Australians are involved in their care.
However, dementia training is currently not mandatory for aged care and home care workers.
Dementia Australia chief executive Maree McCabe last week told the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality that about 70 per cent of the aged care workforce did not receive any training about dementia as part of their training.
Carinity is passionate about providing specialised quality service to older residents experiencing dementia, including conditions such as Alzheimer’s.
All Carinity Home Care Bribie Island lifestyle carers are completing dementia-specific training through Dementia Australia and the University of Tasmania.
Carinity Home Care Bribie Island Lifestyle Coordinator Julie Harrison says it is important her team members are skilled in understanding the complexities of dementia.
“Dementia is one of the most prevalent conditions to affect the older members of the community. Therefore, it is important our care staff are supported in accessing knowledge in understanding dementia and learning skills how to best communicate and encourage persons affected by this disease,” Julie says.
Julie Harrison from Carinity Home Care Bribie Island, whose carers are
completing dementia-specific training.
“This Carinity team has taken advantage of every opportunity to complete courses in dementia care, whether online, at workshops or at university.
“Knowing how to communicate effectively with persons affected by dementia means Carinity carers can support our clients in not just the activities of daily living but also participating in activities that bring enjoyment to their lives.”
Carinity Home Care supports local Dementia Support Groups and the Dementia Friendly Communities initiative.
Julie says Carinity Home Care will soon begin hosting a Dementia Support Group in Caboolture which will meet regularly at community hubs and in dementia-friendly cafés.
Carinity Home Care offer a full range of service to support seniors to remain living independently at home including household support, nursing care, personal grooming, and getting you out and about to the shops and with friends in your local community.
For more on Carinity Home Care visit CarinityHomeCare.org.au or phone 1300 109 109.
