Experts and health professionals to run dementia education event

HEALTH professionals will share the latest research at the Dementia Inclusive Ballina Alliance’s annual symposium in Ballina.

It is the fourth year of the event, which provides the latest information for carers and supporters of people living with dementia.

The symposium will be held at the Ballina RSL Club on October 17 between 8am and 5pm.

Professor Henry Brodaty from the UNSW Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing is the keynote speaker.

This year’s theme is social connection.

Speakers will describe how integrating the approach into care strategies can foster deeper connections and support for people with dementia, as well as the wider ageing community.

The importance of yarning circles in providing opportunities for social connectedness with First Nations people will also be explored.

Dementia Inclusive Ballina Alliance chair Anne Moehead said the event is a valuable opportunity for local professionals and other interested parties to broaden their understanding of dementia, ageing, and community health strategies.

“Participants will obtain practical, client-focused information, network with peers, and take part in discussions regarding the development of inclusive environments for individuals with dementia and their carers,” she said.

The group was part of the latest round of North Coast volunteer grants from Federal MP Justine Elliot.

A total of 28 successful North Coast community organisations received one-off funding of between $1000 and $5000 to put towards future events.

“This funding boost shows that we are supporting our local volunteers to continue their important work in our community,” Elliot said.

“Volunteers play a vital role in many different ways, whether it be helping out in times of disaster or crisis, supporting the most vulnerable people in our community, or assisting with community events.”

To register visit events.humanitix.com/dementia-inclusive-ballina-annual-symposium-2025 and their carers’