Confronting Australia’s silent epidemic
As the need for dementia care intensifies, so too do resource shortages across the sector, writes Lee Carissa.
This Dementia Action Week, it’s crucial the aged care industry takes the time to recognise the growing impact of the disease across Australia.
Set to double its prevalence by 2058, dementia remains largely untreatable, placing an enormous emotional strain on thousands of families. Currently, it’s the second leading cause of disability and death nationwide, and the leading cause of death for women. Despite medical advancements, most forms of dementia remain without a cure.
These facts highlight the increasing demands on the aged care industry. As the need for dementia care intensifies, so too do widespread resource shortages across the sector.
There is still much mystification around identifying the early signs of dementia, knowing how to provide immediate support, and navigating care strategies that best serve people living with the disease. Yet, the aged care sector continues to make meaningful strides in offering specialised care, support, and activities designed to improve quality of life.
It’s time to remind everyone in our industry about the tools and knowledge needed to support those impacted.
While memory loss is a common symptom, dementia extends far beyond this. It’s important to look out for those showing poor judgment, confusion, difficulty expressing thoughts, wandering in familiar surroundings, loss of inhibition, and challenges with everyday tasks like managing personal hygiene and finances. Recognising these early signs ensures residents receive timely diagnoses and interventions.
Specific activities can be highly beneficial for those experiencing dementia. Physical activity, reminiscence therapy, music and art appreciation, and sensory-based activities have been shown to stimulate cognitive function and enhance wellbeing. Structured routines reduce stress and break tasks into manageable steps. It’s also important to validate the experiences of those with dementia, accepting their reality without questioning their memory or reasoning.
Care for the caregivers is equally essential. Dementia care can be emotionally taxing, and prioritising self-care helps maintain their wellbeing and ability to provide compassionate support. Recognising caregiver burnout early and providing help when necessary is vital to delivering sustainable, quality care.
As we know, residential aged care becomes the best option for a person living with dementia.
The care environment in residential facilities is designed to provide comforting routines, specialist care, and activities tailored to maintaining cognitive function. We can all agree our great staff play a critical role in ensuring that residents feel safe, supported, and engaged, which can often bring a sense of relief to families.
It’s important to remember that life in an aged care facility doesn’t mean an end to engagement. Many residents with dementia participate in specialised programs and activities that foster joy and connection. Sensory gardens, music therapy, and laughter programs are just a few examples of how aged care staff can bring light and happiness into the lives of those with dementia. For instance, at Cranbrook Care, one previously withdrawn resident found renewed connection through the Humour Foundation’s laughter care program, forming a supportive friendship with a humour practitioner that greatly enhanced her wellbeing.
As dementia continues to rise across the country, the first step is removing the uncertainty surrounding the disease. Recognising early signs, employing effective caregiving strategies, and fostering an environment of compassion and opportunity are critical. Our industry’s collective efforts ensure that residents affected by dementia can continue to live fulfilling lives, surrounded by understanding and opportunities for joy.
Lee Carissa – a registered nurse – is chief executive officer of Cranbrook Care
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