Free Courses Offered to Newcastle Residents Living with or Caring for Dementia Sufferers

 BY ISABEL EVERETT

Residents in the Newcastle area, living with or caring for someone with dementia are being offered the chance to take part in a series of free training courses in November, hosted by Dementia Australia. 

There are estimated to be more than 3,400 people living with dementia in the Hunter. 

Without a medical breakthrough, the number is expected to increase to an estimated 6,200 people by 2058.

Dementia Australia’s program is designed for people living with dementia, their family carers and family members and will provide an overview of dementia and how to proceed after a diagnosis.

The course will be held over four weeks on the 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th of November 2020 from 10:30am to 3:30pm. 

Topics include;

• Coping with change
• Relationships and communication
• Relationships and communication
• Planning for the future and staying healthy

The courses are run face to face, as well via Zoom, with people able to engage in whatever way best suits them. 

"Generally there are ten to six pairs in the program, we find that's about the right number so they can get to know each other and talk freely," Director of Operations at Dementia Australia, Leanne Emerson, says. 

"We will try to run more programs if demand exceeds what we are able to offer." 

Courses also provide attendees with an opportunity to meet with others who are sharing a similar experience, allowing time to socialise and share important links to local support services.  

To find out more or to register for the course, please visit https://lwd-nsw-4nov.eventbrite.com.au/?aff=MR or call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. 

Image, Home care UK