Younger onset dementia social program launches
Lena Pace was diagnosed with dementia in her late 50s, but this has not stopped her from thoroughly enjoying life, thanks to a new social program for people with younger onset dementia.
Lena Pace and Agnes Mc Bride on a Younger Onset Dementia program outing.
Ms Pace is one of the first to sign up for Western Australia aged care provider's, Amana Living ‘Early Birds’ program, which took off in January this year as part of its dementia specific day club service.
“Lena has always been outgoing and loves the Early Birds program,” says her sister, Sue, who is her primary carer.
Sue believes it is vital for someone like Ms Pace to have activity, fresh air and mental stimulation for the sake of her overall sense of wellbeing.
“It’s wonderful for Lena to be out and about, mixing with others and enjoying herself. She’s always excited about her day when I pick her up, telling me ‘We went everywhere’, and ‘Everybody’s lovely!’” Sue says.
Sue does everything she can for Lena, but having a husband, son and daughter to think of as well means it’s impossible for her to keep her sister occupied and content all the time. Having a support program like Early Birds has given Sue some time to recharge her batteries.
Alzheimer’s Australia reports that dementia affects about 25,100 Australians aged under 65 years, some as young as 30. Staying engaged and active, both socially and physically, is an especially important aspect of life for people in this age group.
The Early Birds group meets once a week, enabling younger people with dementia to socialise, engage with the community and take part in activities they enjoyed before their diagnosis.
The outings are planned in consultation with participants and may include hikes in the hills, bowling or having morning tea at the local cafe followed by a movie.
On other days, Ms Pace attends the day club, which provides activities for people of all ages who are living with dementia.
“Lena isn’t able to find the words to tell me what she’s been doing, so the information provided by the Amana Living day club coordinator is vital. Knowing what Lena has been up to means I can ask direct questions to help her tell me about her day,” Sue says.
Day club staff aim to develop a sense of personal meaning by considering the physical and cognitive abilities of each individual so that they can get the maximum enjoyment from the activities. For example, during a walking outing the group may be split into two, one group being the faster walkers and the others going at a slower pace with more support, possibly due to difficulties with perception.
The Early Birds program is being offered initially at Amana Living Bull Creek (Lefroy Day Club) to a group of under 65s living with dementia, with a 1:4 ratio of skilled staff to clients. A similar program is planned for Amana Living Kinross.
Amana Living planned the program in collaboration with YOD (younger onset dementia) key workers at Alzheimer’s Australia, who are now assisting with referrals and ongoing support. YOD key workers are part of a national Alzheimer’s Australia program and act as a primary point of contact for people with YOD, their carers, families and friends.
