Few people understand the diverse needs of a retirement village like Managers.
Beyond the physical infrastructure and amenities, we recognise varying needs of the individuals who make up our village. This is especially true when it comes to health and well-being.
This is one of the reasons why Dementia Action Week holds particular significance for us. It serves as a reminder of the critical role we play in fostering open conversations about Dementia and the influence we can have with facilitating access to support and services for our residents when they need it most.
This week provides an opportunity for us, as retirement village managers, to initiate vital conversations about dementia within our communities. Conversations are a catalyst for change.
Through encouraging conversations about Dementia in our communities, we create a space where residents, families, and staff members can openly discuss concerns to help reduce the stigma that has been associated with this topic in the past.
At our recent Professional Development Days around the country, managers shared stories of hosting awareness morning teas, and partnering with Dementia Australia and other service providers to put on sessions for residents and staff. Managers spoke of how valuable it had been to make it easier for individuals to come forward if they or their loved ones are experiencing memory loss or cognitive changes.
Moreover, a conversation enables us to adapt our services, policies, and environments to provide the support they require to live fulfilling lives in our retirement villages.
About Dementia Action Week, 18-24 September 2023
Act Now for a Dementia-Friendly Future
Imagine being treated differently just because you have been diagnosed with a disease like cancer or diabetes. This is the reality for people living with dementia, their families and carers.
Dementia Australia research shows 81 per cent of those with a loved one living with dementia felt that people in shops, cafes and restaurants treated people with dementia differently.
That’s why this Dementia Action Week we’re encouraging everyone to take a few simple actions to create a dementia-friendly future for all Australians.
A dementia-friendly future is a future that is better for everyone in the community.
