People with dementia join experts

The 30th International Conference of Alzheimer’s Disease International is in Perth this year, from 13-18 April at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Amana Living dementia specialists will take two people living with dementia and their carers with them, as they join experts from around the world at this key event.

“It’s fantastic that Alzheimer’s Australia have offered people with dementia the opportunity to attend such an important conference, have their voices heard and talk about what it’s like to live with this difficult condition,” says Amana Living chief executive, Ray Glickman.

“We were very pleased to be able to sponsor two of our clients and their carers. They will join our dementia experts and hopefully come away with a renewed sense of connection from sharing and learning within a global community.”

One of the sponsored delegates is 70 year old Mandurah resident, Jan Willems, who lives with dementia and will attend with his wife, Gail.

Mr Willems called the Amana Living McCusker Nurse Service earlier this year on behalf of Jan, who wanted to learn more about dementia, how it progresses and what to expect.

The McCusker Nurses support people living with dementia and their carers by offering advice and reassurance, providing accurate information and helping them access the services and resources they need.

As well as receiving support from the McCusker Nurse South, the Willems attend a monthly support group run by Alzheimer’s Australia WA (AAWA). They are interested to learn from experts and other delegates at the conference next week.

“We are keen to learn what research is happening around the world,” Ms Gail Willems says. “We are especially interested in the session on enabling environments, which looks at how the physical environment can enhance quality of life for people living with dementia.”

AAWA expects 1,500 delegates to attend from more than 60 countries.

“This is a great opportunity for dementia specialists in Perth to share learning and tap into synergies created by a gathering of inspirational minds from around the globe,” says Tim Nayton, Amana Living general manager of health care.

“Our dementia specialists are dedicated to making a real difference to the wellbeing of our residents and clients. We’re very excited about the conference coming to Perth and look forward to attending alongside our clients.”