World Alzheimer’s Day

September is World Alzheimer’s Month, and this year the theme of, ‘Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer’s’ highlights the importance of support for people living with dementia, and their families, following a diagnosis.

The experienced team at Cumberland View Aged Care provides a successful, diverse, and engaging program to support residents who live with all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s.

This World Alzheimer’s Day, our Lifestyle Assistant, Marianne, shares the story of her drive for helping others living with Alzheimer’s and how working at Cumberland View Aged Care fulfils her passion.

 

‘Every September, I am reminded about Alzheimer’s, a subject very close to my heart. My father was sadly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and my family, and I were scared as we didn’t know too much about the disease. It was the fear of not really knowing what this meant for his future, or ours. Like many of us, I turned to the internet for information, but it was overwhelming how much was out there.

To prepare for what was ahead of us, my sisters and I undertook education through Dementia Australia, the University of Tasmania, and other online courses, and I became passionate about helping my dad through his journey.  The more I learned about Alzheimer’s, the more I wanted to help others with their dementia journey too. I completed my Certificate IV in Leisure and Lifestyle while working at Cumberland View Aged Care and love my role and all the residents I help care for.

Our Carter Wing includes specialised dementia care, and we are passionate about enhancing daily experiences for our residents by using a person-centred approach. All activities are carefully designed to empower and enrich the lives of all our residents who are living with or without Alzheimer’s.

At Cumberland View, there’s so much more to the care and support provided than just mind games and activities. Understanding sundowners and strategies to ease anxiety are part of the way we structure our day. We are sure to incorporate music, art and social interaction through games as well as doll and pet therapy.

It is the simple things that give me joy in my work, a smile, a connection and a memory shared.

Any family who experiences dementia knows how heart breaking and hard it can be. If you’d like to further educate yourself, I recommend doing the courses, Understanding Dementia and Preventing Dementia which are a free online tool through the University of Tasmania. If you find yourself in the same situation and need more information, feel free to come and have a chat to our friendly staff here at Cumberland View.