children help brighten lives - dementia australia · 2020. 5. 1. · alzheimer’s australia wa...

Issue 10 June 2011

In this issue:

Dementia to drive aged care shortage Page 4

Volunteer program for people with dementia 3

Milestones

Children help brighten livesPage 7

2 Milestones Alzheimer’s Australia WA

ABS ReportA new report by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) found that deaths due to dementia and Alzheimer's disease have more than doubled over the past 10 years, accounting for 5.9% of all deaths in 2009 compared to 2.8% in 2000.

The report found that dementia is still the third leading cause of death in Australia and is more prevalent amongst females as compared to males.

Dementia is now the most common cause of disease burden in Australians aged over 75.

Dementia in aged careThe Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) published a report on the prevalence of dementia amongst aged care residents.

Although it comes as no surprise to anyone working in the aged care industry, the figures do add weight that dementia cannot be ignored in future aged care policies.

The AIHW report found that in 2008-09, more than half (53%) of the permanent residents living in Australian Government subsidised aged care facilities had a diagnosis of dementia. About 87% of these residents required high-level care.

Dementia still ignoredIn the light of these two reports, it is disappointing to hear that the Australian government has left dementia out of its budget once again. This is despite the fact that the number of people with dementia will triple to 1.1 million by 2050 and will

have a severe impact on our health and aged care systems.

Counting the cost The cost of dementia care in Australia is now estimated at $5.4 billion annually and dementia will become the third greatest source of health and residential aged care spending within two decades (around one percent of GDP).

Dementia research fundingFunding for dementia research continues to lag behind other diseases. The National Health and Medical Research Council currently spends about $24 million annually on dementia research. This is compared to $160 million on cancer, $160 million on cardiovascular disease, and $60 million on diabetes.

Federal Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mark Butler acknowledged at the recent Alzheimer’s Australia conference in Brisbane that he was aware of the lack of funding in dementia research and there was to be a strategic review of medical research to align research efforts with national health priorities.

We hope this will translate to a greater investment by the government not only into the diagnosis and treatment of dementia but also on preventing the condition.

Aged care reformsIt is important that future aged care reforms take into account dementia care. The draft report into aged care released by the Productivity Commission earlier this year did not consider dementia in any of its recommendations. Alzheimer's

Australia has submitted our response to the interim report and we hope that the final report to be released in June this year will address some of our concerns and recognise dementia as core business in aged care.

WA state budgetI would like to take the opportunity to applaud the WA Government for their recent announcement of a $604 million funding boost for the state's not-for-profit sector.

This increased funding over four years will relieve some of the pressure on community organisations and will help to improve service provision.

Community actionThere is still more progress to be made but we cannot do it alone. We need your support more than ever.

If you are not already a member of Alzheimer's Australia WA, I urge you to join us (individual membership is free). A strong membership base provides us with the strength in numbers to tackle advocacy issues and to argue a stronger case for people with dementia and their carers. As a member, you will receive access to a range of dementia resources and invitations to special events.

If you are already a member, why not encourage your family and friends to join you in helping to champion the cause of people living with dementia.

Lastly, I invite you to join me as we "walk against dementia" at our upcoming Memory Walk on Sunday 18 September. It will be a chance for us to publicly support the 24,000 people with dementia living in WA.

Two reports released in the past few months have proved that the dementia epidemic is upon us and that now is the time for governments and the community to take action.

Mind MattersCraig Masarei – Chairman, Alzheimer’s Australia WA

Alzheimer’s Australia WA Milestones 3

Alzheimer's Australia WA is now able to offer a new accredited Certificate IV qualification in dementia care.

New cert IV qualification

This 15-unit ALZ40107 Certificate IV in Dementia Practice is the first full qualification in Australia aimed at improving care practices for people with dementia.

The qualification is applicable to experienced care workers who are considering a career transition or who have moved into dementia-specific service delivery. It is also suitable for informal care partners who wish to undertake a formal care giving role within a dementia-specific workplace or as a foundation for new entrants to the aged care or community care sectors.

Participants must be committed to promote:

• the quality of life and well-being of people with dementia;

• partnerships between the care provider, the person with dementia and family;

• the integration of current knowledge and applied skills to achieve effective dementia care.

Impact in the workplaceAlzheimer's Australia WA Manager Education Services Sheila Haywood said participants will gain knowledge and skills in models of best practice in dementia care.

She said it can be a pathway for those wishing to pursue leadership roles and be innovative and creative in their workplace.

Participants undertaking this qualification will be regarded as dementia care experts within their organisations and contribute as a role model for the rest of the care team.

Starting in July 2011Delivery of the qualification will begin in July 2011 and participants will be required to attend a one full-day workshop every three weeks for a period of 12 months. Participants will be assesed through a written component, workplace projects and site visits.

For further information, contact Catherine Zlatnik on (08) 9388 2800 (during office hours) or email [email protected]

A Dementia Free Future: Fantasy or Reality?

Topics covered:

• Latest research strategies including amyloid thesis, neurogenesis and environmental issues; and

• Social challenges preventing a dementia free future including funding for research, social attitudes, changing lifestyles and prejudice.

An invitation to hear renowed neuroscientist Baroness Susan Greenfield CBE who will share about the future of the brain and whether a dementia free world is achievable.

About the speakerBaroness Susan Greenfield CBE is one of Britain’s foremost neuroscientists. She is an award-winning science communicator who has spoken widely about the science of the brain and Alzheimer’s disease and is regarded as one of the most influential women in the world. Baroness Greenfield has been Professor of Synaptic Pharmacology since 1996 at Oxford University where she continues to head a multi-disciplinary research group exploring novel brain mechanisms linked to neurodegeneration. She is also Director of the Institute for the Future of the Mind.

Date: Wednesday 6 JulyTime: 6.00pm to 8.00pm (light refreshments from 5.30pm)

Venue: Duxton Hotel (Ballroom), 1 St George's Terrace, PerthCost: Alzheimer's Australia WA members - $22 (incl GST) Non-members - $33 (incl GST)

Bookings: www.alzheimers.asn.au or call (08) 9388 2800 (office hours)

Event proudly supported by:


More than 24,000 people in WA will miss out on aged care places by 2050 according to a new Access Economics report.

The report, Caring Places: Planning for Aged Care and Dementia 2010 Vol 2, found that current government policy will lead to a severe shortage in community and residential places by mid-century.

Rise in dementia prevalenceThe report also found the increasing number of people with dementia in the next few decades was the key driver for this shortage.

Alzheimer’s Australia WA Chief Executive Officer Frank Schaper estimates that more than half the people in residential aged care have dementia and this proportion is set to increase as the number of Australians with dementia reaches one million in 2050.

"The undersupply of residential and community aged care places is largely due to the increasing numbers of those aged over 85 and the growth in the number of people with dementia," Mr Schaper said.

"Current government policy will result in WA experiencing a big shortfall in aged care in the state as the number of people with dementia will reach 109,000 by 2050."

Comprehensive aged care plan requiredMr Schaper said the Australian government needs to recognise dementia care is core business for

aged care and that a comprehensive plan is needed to address the dementia epidemic.

"The reform of aged care should recognise the extra demands that dementia care places on family carers as well as the additional costs on service providers," he said.

"A plan is needed to address the dementia epidemic that embraces not only aged care reform but ensuring timely diagnosis and creating dementia friendly communities."

Aged care providers under pressureUniting Church Homes, who provide quality aged care and other support services to older people throughout WA, is one organisation feeling the

pressure.

The organisation's Chief Executive Vaughan Harding said the unique economic conditions in WA had seen the aged care sector struggle in recent years to meet the needs of an ageing community.

"This is due to a shortage of workers and high building and operating costs," Mr Harding said.

" The building of new residential care facilities has virtually ground to a halt and community programs are struggling to find workers to deliver services to people in their homes."

You can download a copy of the report from www.alzheimers.org.au

Dementia to drive aged care shortage in WA

Source: Access Economics, "Caring Places: Planning for Aged Care and Dementia 2010 – 2050, Vol 2", February 2011

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Projected aged care supply shortfall in 2050 under current policy (85+ Growth Scenario) by WA Federal Electoral Division


Amana Living invests in dementia care

Amana Living which provides residential services, retirement living and community services including centre-based day care across the Perth Metropolitan area and in Kalgoorlie and Mandurah, recently appointed Louise Jones as their new Dementia Care Specialist.

Ms Jones is an occupational therapist with more than 20 years’ experience in aged care and was previously a consultant with the Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Service (DBMAS) run by Alzheimer's Australia WA.

She has a particular interest in the effects the environment can have on the wellbeing of people with dementia and in exploring ways to maximise the enrichment of their day to day lives.

New initiativesRay Glickman, Chief Executive Officer, Amana Living, said the newly created role will support the organisation's current dementia care services and implement a number of new initiatives.

"With our rapidly ageing population and the rising prevalence of dementia in the community, Amana Living is determined to remain on the front foot when it comes to caring and supporting our residents and clients who are living with dementia in thefuture," he said.

"We are very pleased to welcome Louise to our team. She has successfully consulted to a number of our residents over the past few years and she is passionate about

supporting and leading services that make a practical difference to the lives of people with dementia and their families," he said.

Welcome moveAlzheimer's Australia WA Chief Executive Officer Frank Schaper welcomed Amana Living's move in tackling the dementia epidemic now and into the future.

"Amana Living has recognised the impact dementia has on aged care and is taking steps to respond effectively. We hope this will deliver quality dementia care that is responsive to the needs of people with dementia," he said.

Building capacityMr Schaper said the long term goal for Alzheimer's Australia WA was to

create capacity in other aged and community care service providers to ensure people with dementia receive evidence-based, best-practice, quality care.

Sharing the knowledgeMs Jones said she looked forward to sharing knowledge and expertise with Alzheimer's Australia WA on future projects that will benefit people living with dementia.

"Alzheimer's Australia WA has a different role, which is challenging and helping those that provide dementia care to continually improve on what they do," she said.

"I think service providers find it really useful that there is a body of expertise out there that can help them strive for best practice.”

One of WA's largest aged care organisations has acknowledged the need to address the dementia epidemic by appointing a Dementia Care Specialist to review their current services and implement new initiatives.

Amana Living CEO Ray Glickman and Dementia Care Specialist Louise Jones at the organisation's Lefroy Hostel in Bull Creek.

6 Milestones Alzheimer’s Australia WA lzheimer’s Australia WA

Changes to Veterans’ benefits for people with Alzheimer'sVeterans or their spouses who have Alzheimer's disease may be eligible for additional benefits

Australian military service Veterans and their families may be eligible for various government benefits.

Updated SOPIn 2010, the Repatriation Medical Authority updated their Statement of Principles (SOP) for Alzheimer’s disease. SOPs are used by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to establish a connection between a medical condition and military service, to determine a person’s eligibility for benefits.

Risk factorsThe SOP for Alzheimer’s disease provides a list of factors, at least one of which must exist to suggest a link between Alzheimer’s disease and the relevant service rendered by

the person. One of these factors is a history of smoking. Other established risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease are also included.

The SOP is available on the Repatriation Medical Authority website www.rma.gov.au/SOP/alpha_ind/a.htm#Alzheimer

More informationContact the Department of Veterans’ Affairs www.dva.gov.au or your local

ex-service organisation for more information.

Alzheimer’s Australia WA welcomes support from individuals and organisations. We rely on the financial support of the community to assist us to provide critical services to more than 24,000 Western Australians withAlzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Previous supporters have organised events such as trivia nights, golf days, gala dinners, shopping trips and morning teas. If you are celebrating a special occassion such as a birthday or an anniversary, you can request donations to Alzheimer's Australia WA in lieu of gifts.

To find out more, contact Emma Buitendag on (08) 9388 2800 or [email protected]

Thank you to our community supporters

Staff from the Water Corporation (Perth Region) raised $1,395 for Alzheimer's Australia WA as part of the company's "Caring for safety" program.

Help make a difference

Australians military service Veterans and families with Alzheimer's disease may be eligible for additional benefits.


The playgroup, which runs every Thursday from 10am to 12pm at the Shenton Park centre, is open to all pre-school children and their parents.

Fun activitiesThe initiative was set up in partnership with Playgroups WA and involves the children interacting with the centre's clients through a range of activities such as story-telling, games, sing-a-longs and gardening.

Mary Chester Centre Coordinator Marlene Grogan said the presence of the children has a great therapeutic value for the clients in the centre.

“Children are good for older people, their songs, play and laughter inject vitality into any environment. It’s potent medicine for our seniors," Marlene said.

Helping clients feel valuedShe explained that people with dementia often feel redundant in society because they were no longer productive.

“Intergenerational playgroups allow them to feel valued again and it also allows them to connect with families within the local community," she said.

Everyone benefitsLois Doye, who works at the centre,

said the clients enjoyed the playgroup as much as the children did.

“Everybody benefits from it. They’re really happy to see them, and some would sit down to read a story for the children," Lois said.

“Children accept you as you are, and they don’t know that there is anything different. For many of them, visiting the centre is the highlight of their week.”

The intergenerational playgroup is also part of Alzheimer's Australia WA's Eden Alternative care philosophy which involves introducing animals, plants and children into support facilities to combat loneliness, helplessness and boredom.

Join the playgroupIf you are a parent of a pre-school child and would like to join or find our more about the playgroup, please contact Marlene on (08) 9388 2800

(during office hours) or email [email protected]

Children help brighten livesA children's playgroup at Alzheimer's Australia WA's Mary Chester Centre is helping to bridge the intergenerational divide.

Children at the Mary Chester Centre playgroup interact with clients through a range of activities.

Tee off against dementia!Join the 2011 Alzheimer's Australia WA Charity Golf Day

Proudly sponsored byThursday 18 AugustMeadow Springs Golf and Country ClubCost: $1,200 (incl GST) per team of four $300 (incl GST) per individualDay includes 18 holes of golf, on-course refreshments, lunch and a chance to win great prizes - all for a good cause!

More details: Emma Buitendag (08) 6271 1028 or email: [email protected]


Engaging in regular exercise not only provides our brain with more nutrients and oxygen, it also helps to maintain how well our brain is working in terms of memory and other thinking skills.

The good news too is that you don’t have to do a lot of exercise either to be able to reap the benefits.

Importance of exercise to the brainResearch is continuing to confirm the brain health benefits of exercise. Walking just three times a week for 30 to 40 minutes a time, can make a positive difference to memory skills, learning, and paying attention.

In one study called “Women Who Walk”, results showed that walking was associated with less cognitive decline and for every extra mile walked per week there was even greater benefit.

Protects against cognitive declineExercise is what we call neuro-protective. The more you can exercise, the greater the protection against cognitive decline. Exercise has been shown to increase the size of the area of the brain called the hippocampus on brain scans. This is the area important for memory and learning.

The other benefits of exercise for the brain includes an improved sense of well-being, improved mood, less risk of depression as well as increased physical strength, overall fitness and balance.

Generating new brain cellsExercise helps to promote new brain cell survival. Our brain produces new brain cells or neurons thoughout our life. Exercise helps these to survive and mature into brain cells that

can become incorporated into our existing brain circuits.

Is it ever too late to add physical activity into your daily routine?Absolutely not. It’s never too late or too early to start. If you are a bit of a “couch potato” or have other medical conditions to consider, then please check with your doctor first, to determine which physical activities would be most appropriate for you to start with. Ideally we need to be exercising for 30 minutes every day in some form of aerobic (weight- bearing) activity. But starting with even incremental amounts of 10 minutes is better than not doing anything!

Which activities should you choose?The choice of activity really doesn’t matter, just make sure it is something you will enjoy. This is because it is going to be something you do without fail every single day, just like brushing your teeth!

Having a buddy, a friend, family member (or of course a dog!) can also provide a great incentive to help you to stay motivated to keep exercising. Try a bit of variety by including a couple of different activities. Apart from walking or jogging, what about joining a gym, practicing some yoga, pilates or tai chi, swimming, golf, tennis or even dancing?

What about other forms of exercise?Weight training and resistance work has been shown in studies to also provide some cognitive benefits. COTA (WA) and a number of local gyms provide specific exercise programs for seniors, such as “Living longer, living stronger” to combine strength training with some aerobic activity. No matter your age,

improving your cardiovascular fitness will help to improve memory and reasoning skills.

Benefits for people with mild to moderate dementiaA dementia specific facility in Liverpool UK has been providing regular gentle gym sessions for residents over the last two years. Not only are the residents stretching and using their muscles, they are smiling and laughing more, communicating more and appear to have greater self confidence. Fewer falls were reported at the home and there was a significant decrease in the amount of medication being prescribed for behavioural issues such as agitation, aggression or sleep disturbance.

Exercise is one of the key lifestyle elements that along with healthy nutrition, mental challenge and stress management can help us all improve our brain health and function Remember, it’s never too late to start.

Exercising for your brainExercise is important for physical fitness and health but did you know it’s very important for brain health as well? Dr Jenny Brockis explains.

About Dr Jenny BrockisDr Jenny Brockis speaks and writes on brain fitness in the public and corporate sectors.

She worked for many years as a GP in WA and during that time she became increasingly concerned about the impact that our changing diet and sedentary lifestyle was having on our overall mental and physical health.

Jenny believes that good nutrition, regular physical exercise, keeping mentally active and managing our stress can build up our level of brain fitness. To learn more about Jenny or to read her blog, visit www.drjennybrockis.com


Walking against dementiaJoin the Alzheimer's Australia WA Memory Walk 2011 on Sunday 18 September as we walk to remember loved ones with dementia and raise funds for critical dementia care services.

•Walk to remember a loved one or friend.

•Walk to stay healthy.

•Walk to raise funds.

•Walk against dementia.

Step 1: Register online at www.memorywalkwa.com.au to walk in memory of a family member or a friend with dementia. Many have also walked in memory of loved ones lost to dementia.

Step 2: Challange your family, friends and colleagues to walk with you or to sponsor your walk. Bring your dog!

Step 3: Turn up to the walk on Sunday 18 September (Edinburgh Oval, Curtin University) and walk as many laps as you can. Set yourself a target. You can walk, jog or run just once around the half-a-kilometre track or you can run a marathon distance - 84 times around the track!

Remember - after every lap you complete, you will receive a “Memory Flag” that you can write a personal message on and plant in the oval at the end of your walk.

Cost■ Adults $20 ■ Seniors, children and students $10 ■ Family (2 adults & 2 children) $50 ■ Dog $5

Event details• Time: 9.30am to 4pm (stay for an hour or all day)• Bring along a picnic or enjoy the stadium cafe. • Free entertainment and a chance to win prizes for the

best-dressed walking team.

Sign up onlineVisit www.memorywalkwa.com.au to register online or email [email protected] for more info.

Footy legend tackles dementia

Media PartnerMemory Walk Partner

As a former West Coast Eagles club Champion, Glen Jakovich is used to applying the hard tackles on the footy field.

At this year's Memory Walk 2011, Glen will take to the oval once again - this time to tackle dementia.

Glen will be walking in memory of his mother, Mary, who had an aggressive form of dementia and passed away last year.

"Mum's initial signs included memory loss. She was losing her car keys and wearing the same clothes everyday. In her more advanced stages, she wandered the highway alone, headed to the shops at 3am and hitched a ride on a truck," Glen says.

“Mum was a fit and strong person, lived a healthy lifestyle, followed a healthy diet, loved to cook healthy meals and it broke my heart to see her go downhill."

By taking part in the Memory Walk, he hopes more people in the community would be aware of dementia and that there is help available.

“The sooner we learn to deal with it and put necessary steps in place to make things comfortable for the affected person, the easier it will be for family and friends.”

Join Glen at the 2011 Memory Walk and help make a difference for people living with dementia.

Glen Jakovich


The topic of mortality is explored in this issue by Allan Anderson, Grief and Loss Educator at Chipper Funerals.

The 'musts' of mortality

Over the years an often repeated chorus has been sung to me, “If only!”

“If only I had” – “If only I had not!”

The regrets of life could be minimised if we were only willing to accept the truth that life does have its limitations.

There is a really beautifully illustrated children’s book titled, “Lifetimes” The author, Robert Ingpen, presents a theme that all children should grasp – “There is a beginning and an ending for everything that is alive. In between there is living.”

This is really a concept that many adults have never learned. There is a limitation to life. Many have quoted the axiom, first uttered by Daniel Defoe in The Political History of the Devil in 1726, "Things as certain as death and taxes can be more firmly believed."

Benjamin Franklin, in 1789 put it into the more familiar words “In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes". It is amazing that so many people try to live in a fantasy world where death does not exist. We fail to face the truth of our mortality.

We celebrate ‘beginnings’ but the thought of ‘endings’ causes us to cringe.

It is usually only when we face a disaster or the diagnosis of a terminal illness that we admit our mortality or the mortality of someone we love.

The truth is that the diagnosis does not alter our mortal state. We were just as mortal the day before we knew of the terminal illness as we are the day after the diagnosis.To contemplate and accept our mortality is not a morbid experience but rather can be a time that can set us free to live.

“There is a beginning and an ending for everything that is alive. In between there is living.”

Mortality sets before us some 'musts' to free us to live. If we accepted the certainty of death the way most of us live would be radically changed.

The Musts of relationshipWe would become much more concerned about people than things. Grudges would be dealt with, hates would be let go.

The Musts of conversationWe would be much more careful

about the way we spoke to each other. We would let the angry, critical attack go. We would speak the word of encouragement. We would say the “I love you” when people could hear it instead of wishing we had said it after it is too late.

The Musts of preparationThe will would be prepared. Our likes and dislikes for funerals would be discussed. Preparation for the funeral costs would be made. The Musts of beliefWe would contemplate the issues of “After death what?” Whatever our belief might be, at least we would have some course set that would allow us a measure of peace when the time came.

The "musts" of mortality will mean that when we face life’s limitations we will do so with dignity and contentment knowing we have well used the time between the beginnings and the ending.

Allan AndersonManager, Learning and Development,

Grief and Loss EducatorChipper Funerals


The dementia project, which was funded through the Department of Health and Ageing Dementia Community Grants, sought to address the stigma of dementia within Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CaLD) communities.

This includes knowing the symptoms of dementia, getting a diagnosis and learning how to reduce the risk of dementia.

Community educationSpeaking at a celebration to mark the conclusion of the project, Minister for Mental Health Hon. Helen Morton MLC said the crux of the project was to break down the stigma surrounding dementia through community education, while identifying promotional material that could be used in the community.

“Stigma isolates people and can stop them seeking the help and support they need,” she said.

Talking about dementiaThe Program's Project Manager from the Sikh Association of WA (SAWA), Amar Pabla said the Association launched the project last year to encourage the growing ageing population particularly within the Indian sub-continent communities to talk about dementia and to seek help.

"There are so many people to help with dementia - GPs, trainers, psychologists and we have a website, a radio program and a newsletter. We don't have to stay hush hush," he said.

Language barriersAlzheimer’s Australia WA Multicultural

Communities Project Officer Mihaela Safta said people from a CaLD background were underrepresented in dementia services because of language and cultural barriers.

“They often don’t seek help until the symptoms are very severe, and by then they no longer have the capacity to set out preferences for their future care,” she said.

Local community leadersMs Safta said programs that seek to change perceptions and reduce stigma, work best when the local community and its leaders are involved and lead the process themselves.

“The response to the program so far

has been exciting,” she said.

New resourceWith the help of Alzheimer's Australia WA, a new brochure about dementia and memory loss was created and translated to Gujarati, Hindi, Punjabi and Tamil.

The brochure is available through SAWA by calling (08) 9256 1314 or email [email protected]

Raising awareness in the CaLD communitiesAlzheimer's Australia WA and the Sikh Association of WA recently completed a special project aimed at raising the awareness of dementia amongst Indian sub-continent communities.

Joint dementia project: Alzheimer's Australia WA staff and members from the Sikh Association of WA, gathered recently to mark the project's completion.

The Association also donated $1,000 to support the work of Alzheimer's Australia WA.From left - Manager Research and Consultancy Jason Burton, Dr Manjit Mudhar,

Multicultural Communities Project Officer Mihaela Safta, Project Manager Amarjit Singh Pabla and Dr Amarjeet Singh


Project to test memory enhancement programAlzheimer’s Australia WA is evaluating a program that helps reduce anxiety and depression in people with dementia while improving cognitive abilities.

The Ashby Memory Method is a drug-free, non-invasive paper-based test designed to be a social and positive experience for people with early to mid-stage dementia.

The 12-month trail will involve participants undergoing a one-hour session, twice weekly, facilitated by a support worker or therapist at any informal setting.

In WA to launch the project was its creator, John Ashby.

“The Ashby Memory Method is based on the work of my mother, Mira Ashby, who won the Order of Canada for her work with people with brain injuries. My mother viewed dementia as a slow forming brain injury, which is very apt when you think about it,” he said.

“Therapeutic drugs can halt the decline of the disease, but they

only last for about a year before the decline continues. With the Ashby Memory Method, what we see is an actual improvement.”

Brain plasticityThe Ashby Memory Method uses a series of specially designed brain exercises that takes advantage of the plasticity of the brain to maintain cognitive function.

By doing the exercises on a regular basis, participants can experience marked improvements to their cognitive functions.

Positive responseElizabeth Barnes, the Program Manager for the Great Southern and one of the project's investigators, said the response to the trial so far has been very positive.

“What I like about this program is the one-to-one, person-centred system

and the error-less learning,” she said.

“We know medication doesn’t always make a difference, and people are eager to take part in something that we hope will have a real effect,” she said.

Anyone interested in taking part in the trial should call (08) 9388 2800.

Respite care in dementia: consumer perspectivesNational SurveyDo you care for a family member with dementia who is still living at home? Take part in a national survey about respite care and your needs. The aim of this study is to find out why carers choose to use and not use respite services and how these services can be changed to meet the needs of people living with dementia.

We are seeking carers of a family member with dementia, who is living in the community (not in a residential care facility) to participate. You do not

need to have used respite services in the past to participate.

FormatYou will be asked to complete one survey, completed either online (up to 30 minutes) or by phone (up to 45 minutes).

PrivacyYour participation is voluntary and all information is kept confidential under the ethics guidelines of Queensland University of Technology (QUT). No identifying information will be stored

with results. Names and phone numbers are only needed for the phone interview and are then deleted and online surveys will be completely anonymous.

Online surveyGo to: www.dementiaresearch.org.auand click the link "Respite Survey for Carers of People with Dementia -DCRC Carers and Consumers ”

Phone suvery and more infoContact Dr Elaine Fielding on (07) 3138 3879

John Ashby with one of our Mary Chester Centre clients.


Dementia is often characterised by loss. This could be a loss in cognitive skills, memory or the ability to carry out everyday tasks.

While coping with such loss is a challenge itself, the corresponding loss of one's sense of worth is often overlooked.

Alzheimer’s Australia WA has launched a new volunteer program to tackle this phenomenon.

The power of volunteering The new volunteer program is the brainchild of Desirée de Graaf and Tara Stringfellow, coordinators of the Early Intervention Program.

"People with a recent diagnosis of dementia often tell us that they felt a loss of meaning and purpose in their lives," said Tara.

"Some people feel they can no longer contribute, but this is rarely the case. It’s a matter of building on a person’s strengths and providing them with opportunities."

Improving self esteemThe program aims to improve a person with dementia's self esteem and quality of life through meaningful engagement in volunteer work and the results so far have been very promising.

"It gives them such a sense of fulfillment and it’s really stimulating for them. It has a huge impact in the lives of people with dementia," said Desirée.

One volunteer's storyTom North was 61 and still working when he was diagnosed with dementia. While his employers were

understanding of his condition, they eventually had to let him go and he struggled to adjust to his new life.

"There was nothing for me to do. The house was always Edwina's domain, and I felt I was just getting in the way around the house," Tom said.

His wife Edwina found it impossible to motivate him and contacted Alzheimer's Australia WA when he began to feel depressed.

First stepsTara and Desirée met with Tom in an initial interview to determine his interests and personality before presenting him with suggested volunteering roles that would be meaningful for him.

Tom chose to volunteer at Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre where he is guided by a support worker from Alzheimer's Australia WA.

Enjoying the new roleWhile the process of gaining approval and preparation was a long one, Tom had already begun to feel better long before his first day of work.

"It changed him and it changed everything. I felt relieved, like a ton of bricks coming off my shoulders. He was happy again," Edwina said.

At Kanyana, Tom has put his interest

in gardening to good use, by creating a worm farm for the reserve - a project he is in charge of and is having a huge benefit for the park.

Part of Tom’s life"Mondays are my favorite time of the week. I would stay there all the time if I could. I’m positive and I keep going. All I need is just a little guidance," Tom said.

Benefitting the workplace Kanyana Administrator Margaret Robinson said they enjoyed having Tom at the reserve.

"He's integrated very well with other volunteers and he’s very competent at what he does. It's been a positive experience for both of us,” she said.

More informationIf you are a person with earlydementia and would like to findout more or take part in thisvolunteer program, please contactHannah Tebbit on (08) 9388 2800. Places are limited.

Volunteering program for people with dementiaNew program gives people with dementia the opportunity to continue contributing to society in meaningful ways.

Tom, who has dementia, enjoys his weekly volunteer time at Kanyana Wildlife Rehabiliation Centre.


New communication aid for people with dementiaAlzheimer's Australia WA has developed an innovative tool that will help people with dementia overcome communication difficulties.

The new CommunicAidTM kit is a simple to use communication tool designed specifically for people with dementia to address the expressive language difficulties some people experience.

The tool was developed and tested with a three month pilot project that researched a range of illustrations, images and cue cards that were appropriate for use with people from a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

The study was funded through the Commonwealth Government's Dementia Community Grants Program.

Adaptable for different languagesManager Research and Consultancy Jason Burton said CommunicAidTM

was the first augmentative communication aid specifically for people with dementia that could be adapted for different languages.

"We knew there was a need in the community for such a tool but it was also important that we developed something that had been well-researched," he said.

"The kit was developed in consulation with speech therapists, trialled extensively with our clients and other service providers before undergoing further refinement."

The CommunicAidTM kit contains:

• Two pocket sized albums;

• An easy to follow user guide book with considerations for people with eye conditions;

• 180 Black and white line illustrations;

• 108 colour photographs;

• A pain scale; and

• A CD containing the full set of illustrations and photos to be adapted for other languages.

Each kit is available in English, Italian and Greek and costs $99.95 (incl GST) plus postage and handling. For more information or to purchase a CommunicAidTM Kit, phone (08) 9388 2800 during business hours.

Research trialsAlzheimer’s Australia maintains a list of dementia projects and clinical trials in Australia to allow consumers the opportunity to participate in research.

These may range from short online surveys for families, to brain scans, and clinical trials of novel drugs to treat Alzheimer’s disease.

This research may be instrumental in advancing dementia treatments and care and improve outcomes for people with dementia in future generations. Other research areas

include the causes of dementia, better ways of diagnosis and risk reduction. Before any project is listed by Alzheimer’s Australia, it is reviewed and must provide evidence of approval from an ethics committee.

To read more about current projects in Australia or to receive the latest information about clinical trials, email [email protected] or visit www.alzheimers.org.au/research-publications/clinical-trials--research-projects.aspx

The new CommunicaidTM Kit is now available for $99.95 (incl GST) + P&H

Mobile phone alternativeDo you know or care for someone with dementia who is still lives independently?

Alzheimer's Australia WA has a simple to use mobile phone that can call up to three preset phone numbers by pressing just one button if the person is in distress. The phone also has an in-built GPS that can enable family and carers to locate the person when required.

For more information, visit www.safe2walk.com.au


Time for DementiaEdited by Jane Gilliard & Mary Marshall This collection of writings, from both professional and personal perspectives, offers insight in the context of dementia into:

• the meaning of time;

• making time;

• clocks;

• time to love;

• being in the moment;

• night time;

• past times; and

• making good use of time.

The tiger's whispers... and the courage to keep going With Dr Bill Thomas

Join Dr Thomas in a cozy cabin setting for this uplifting story of courage and perseverance. This video provides the inspiration, while the accompanying workbook "The Pathway of Growth" provides the perspiration. Finding the mettle to keep gong is a challenge everyone faces at some point on their culture change journey, and this kit can help energise your leaders and senior staff when they need it most.

Don't bury me... it ain't over yet!By Charles Schneider

This book offers inspiration to those living with Alzheimer's disease through one man's story of how he overcame the many obstacles in life. Charles Schneider was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease at 52 and he shares how he prepared himself and his family for his impending decline. He searches through pivotal moments in his past for insights to the first signs of the disease and the contributing factors. He shares how these events aided him in dealing with the fact that he will lose control over his mind and that the people he loves the most will witness it.

Available now from our Library

Alzheimer’s Australia WA Tax Time Appeal 2011YES! I want to make a difference in the lives of people with dementia!

Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________

Address: _________________________________________________________ Postcode: ________________

Tel: __________________________________________ Mobile: ______________________________________

Email: _____________________________________________________

□ Please send me information about making a bequestAlzheimer’s Australia WA, PO Box 1509, Subiaco, WA 6904 | ABN: 82 102 951 986 | Tel: (08) 9388 2800 Fax: (08) 9388 2739 Donate online: www.alzheimers.asn.au

Pleaase accept my gift of: or my choice of

My cheque is enclosed, crossed "Not Negotiable" and made payable to "Alzheimer's Australia WA Ltd" or

Please debt my Mastercard Visa Amex Diners Donations over $2 are tax deductible

$25 $50 $75 $

Exp. Date: ________________

Name on card: _________________________________ Signed: ___________________________

As Australia’s oldest and largest dementia organisation, Alzheimer’s Australia WA is at the forefront of dementia care services, with world-class research, risk reduction and education and training programs designed to meet the challenge of what has been described by Access Economics as “a national dementia epidemic”.

Milestones Editor Joel Chan, Acting Manager Fundraising and Public Affairs

[email protected]

Disclaimer Articles in this publication provide a general summary of the subject matter covered. Any person with dementia should seek professional advice about their specific case. Alzheimer’s Australia WA is not liable for any error or omission in this publication. Permission should be sought from the Editor before reproducing articles and/or images. Should permission be given, the source must be acknowledged.

Alzheimer’s Australia WA 9 Bedbrook Place, Shenton Park WA 6008

PO Box 1509, Subiaco WA 6904

Tel: (08) 9388 2800 Fax: (08) 9388 2739

Dementia helpline 1800 100 500


Workshops and courses 2011 Family and friends

Family members and friends course These free workshops are for people who know or care for a person with dementia. They provide an understanding of dementia and how to achieve better communication and care strategies. Where: Alzheimer’s Australia WA 9 Bedbrook Place, Shenton Park *Format one: two full days, a fortnight apart (lunch included) Time: 10am to 3.30pm When: 6 & 20 August, 8 & 22 October *Format two: four sessions over four days Time: 10am to 12.00pm (for people with younger onset dementia) When: 1, 8, 15 & 22 September

Mind your Mind® This free workshop covers the seven lifestyle changes you can make now to reduce your risk of developing dementia later on in life.

Where: Alzheimer’s Australia WA 9 Bedbrook Place, Shenton Park When: 23 June (6.00pm to 8.00pm) 18 July (10.00am to 12.00pm) 26 August (2.00pm to 4.00pm) 21 September (6.00pm to 8.00pm)

Living positively with dementia This series of workshops will enable family carers to develop strategies for staying positive whilst acknowledging the challenges of caring for a person with dementia. Three sessions over three weeks.

Where: Alzheimer’s Australia WA 9 Bedbrook Place, Shenton Park Time: 10am to 12.00pm When: 17, 24 & 31 August

Depression and dementia This free workshop will help family carers understand the impact of depression on people with dementia, ways to help the person and how to access available support services. Where: Alzheimer’s Australia WA 9 Bedbrook Place, Shenton Park When: 25 July (1.00pm to 4.00pm)

Health and aged care staff Positive dementia care This one-day workshop provides the underpinning knowledge and skills needed to interact effectively with people who have dementia.

Where: Arthritis WA Seminar Room (17 Lemnos Street, Shenton Park) Time: 9.30am to 4pm When: 20 July, 23 August & 13 September Cost: $132 (includes GST) lunch provided Attendance attracts 5.5 RCNA CNE points as part of RCNA’s Life Long Learning program (3LP).

Experiencing dementia This simulation and workshop offers people working in aged care, the chance to experience and explore a relationship-based philosophy of care.

Where: Alzheimer’s Australia WA 9 Bedbrook Place, Shenton Park Time: 9.00am to 4.00pm When: 14 July, 11 August & 14 September Cost: $165 (includes GST) Lunch provided

Building and design in dementia care This workshop provides participants with an understanding of best-practice principles of architectural and interior design for peple with dementia. It also explores environments that promote activities and the difference between home-like and homely.

Where: Alzheimer’s Australia WA 9 Bedbrook Place, Shenton Park When: 13 July (1.30pm to 4.30pm) Cost: $77 (includes GST)

Attendance attracts 3.0 RCNA CNE points as part of RCNA’s Life Long Learning program (3LP).

Art and creativity in dementia care At this experiential workshop you will work with a wide variety of art materials and gain confidence in offering a creative expression program for people with dementia. Where: Alzheimer’s Australia WA 9 Bedbrook Place, Shenton Park When: 4 August (9.30am to 12.30pm) Cost: $77 (includes GST)

Champions in hospital dementia care

This two-day train the trainer workshop provides participants with a resource kit and skills to support hospital staff to improve dementia care.

Where: Arthritis WA Seminar Room (17 Lemnos Street, Shenton Park) When: 1 & 15 August (8.30am to 4.00pm) Cost: free for all staff working in the acute care sector (lunch included)

Attendance attracts 12.0 RCNA CNE points as part of RCNA’s Life Long Learning program (3LP).

For a complete list of workshops or for bookings, please call (08) 9388 2800 during office hours or visit www.alzheimers.asn.au

children help brighten lives - dementia australia · 2020. 5. 1. · alzheimer’s australia wa...

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