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Taking big steps in dementia care

25 September 2012

Ita ButtroseA recent study looking at improving the quality of care for people with dementia and their carers has been conducted at The Salvation Army Aged Care Plus.

The Queensland University of Technology research aimed to significantly improve the quality of care to people with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, by developing and implementing new systems, skills and resources for volunteers, care workers and health professionals. During the study, people who had cared for a loved one with dementia before their death were invited to visit Aged Care Plus centres to support families of residents with dementia.

Pastoral Care and Wellbeing Team member, Major Beatrice Kay, says being involved in the study was highly beneficial to families of residents in one of Aged Care Plus’ specially designed memory support units.

"At the Woodport Retirement Village where this study was conducted, we had bereaved dementia carers volunteer to provide support to family members and care workers,” says Major Kay. “Dementia care is a specialised field and seeing these volunteers interact and relate to families on a personal level is a huge step forward for dementia care.”

With this week being Dementia Awareness Week, the research highlights the need to support people with dementia and their loved ones.

According to Alzheimer’s Australia, almost 280,000 Australians live with dementia, making it the third leading cause of death in Australia.

Aged Care Plus’ involvement in this research places emphasis on its commitment to person-centred care, meeting each resident’s unique needs in a caring and homely environment. Results of the research are expected to be released later this year, or in early 2013.

This year, Australian personality and National President of Alzheimer’s Australia, Ita Buttrose, has commended The Salvation Army Aged Care Plus on its care for people with dementia.

“I congratulate the Salvation Army on promoting a better understanding of dementia during Dementia Awareness Week and helping to reduce the social isolation and stigma that results from a diagnosis of dementia. I admire their commitment to provide person-centred services that respond to the individual needs of a person with dementia.

“It’s important through the work of major community organisations such as The Salvation Army to respect the worth of people with dementia by providing services that respond not only to their needs for care and support, but for social engagement and activities that have been part of their lives."

Dementia Awareness Week runs from 21– 28 September.

Image: National President of Alzheimer’s Australia, Ita Buttrose. (Photo supplied by Alzheimer’s Australia)

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The Salvation Army acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognises their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures; and to elders both past and present.

The Salvation Army is committed to ensuring the provision of safe and inclusive environments for children, young people and vulnerable people where they feel respected, safe, valued and encouraged to reach their full potential. The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation.