FROM ANGLICARE QUEENSLAND
With an estimated 3,294 people living with dementia in Cleveland (according to Dementia Australia), Anglicare Southern Queensland is encouraging local carers to prioritise their mental and physical health through the Dementia Care Respite Program at Killara Day Respite Centre.
The six-week program provides vital support and relief to families and unpaid carers of people living with dementia, featuring expert-led sessions on topics including Introduction to Dementia, Emotional Wellbeing for Carers, Navigating the System, Supporting a Loved One, Physical Wellbeing for Carers, and Respite Planning.
Bernadette Stanley, Anglicare’s Program Coordinator of the Carer Group Peer Support and Respite Program, said she’d seen firsthand how the program is helping carers feel more confident, informed and connected.
“I’ve received terrific feedback from carers who have come to us mentally and physically exhausted and have left the program feeling hopeful and empowered thanks to the support and resources they’ve received through the service,” Ms Stanley said.
“We know adjusting to the role of being a carer can be extremely overwhelming and many carers report experiencing feelings of turmoil, frustration, guilt, grief and loss, exhaustion, annoyance and anger, which can make it difficult to adequately care for their loved one.
“What’s great about our program is that participants have access to education from leading experts in dementia care as well as access to other support services and can be part of a community where they can meet others in a similar situation and know they aren’t alone.
“Most importantly, the carers get a well-deserved break where they can reset and refill their cup knowing their loved ones are in safe hands with the Killara Day Respite support team.”
Those interested in joining the program at Killara Day Respite Centre can visit the website to find out more.
