Pilot to support wellbeing of people impacted by dementia
A new pilot program run by Alzheimer’s Australia New South Wales (NSW) is offering isolated people living with dementia and their carers personal support to improve their wellbeing.
The Better Life program consists of eight weekly or fortnightly coaching sessions, delivered via telephone or Skype.
In the Better Life program, a person with dementia and their carers, are being matched with a personal coach who works with their client to identify personal goals and ways to tackle any barriers.
The one-on-one coaching aims to assist people in outlining and achieving personal wellbeing goals that promote optimism, as well as improving short and long term health outcomes and self-care skills.
The program is funded by a National Dementia Support Programs (NDSP) innovation grant. Coaching takes the form of eight weekly or fortnightly sessions, delivered via telephone or Skype.
Stigma, physical immobility, geographical location and lack of respite options can all have a huge impact on the amount of interaction and overall quality of life experienced by the person living with dementia, their families and carers.
Alzheimer’s Australia NSW chief executive officer The Hon. John Watkins AM says it is, unfortunately, not uncommon to hear about people living with dementia, their families and carers becoming socially isolated.
“This can have a hugely negative impact on their health and wellbeing,” Mr Watkins explains.
“Whether you are in metropolitan Sydney or a remote town in regional NSW, this program can offer vital support.
“Our goal is to re-introduce some joy into the lives of those people who have, for whatever reason, found themselves isolated following a diagnosis of dementia.”
While the Better Life program is tailored to individual needs, topics covered might include sleeping and relaxation, physical wellbeing, eating well, staying positive, planning for the future, doing what you love, using your strengths, building resilience and adapting to change.
The innovative program is designed to be flexible, accessible and individualised. Coaches offer constructive and empowering feedback, work to develop solutions and provide guidance on how to access the most appropriate support.
The pilot program commenced taking clients in August and is accepting enrolments up until March 2016.
If you are interested in participating, contact Cherie Day or Heather Watson on (02) 9888 4268 or email betterlife@alzheimers.org.au.
