Dementia workshop to connect support system

FAMILY members and carers of people living with dementia can learn about strategies to respond to changes in behaviour at an upcoming workshop presented by the Bendigo branch of Dementia Australia.

The session will include an introduction to dementia and how it changes the brain, plus how to recognise contributing factors to shifts in demeanour.

Dementia Australia spokesperson Jacinta Allen said the forum is ideal for people who are concerned about someone they know.

“People often feel alone and confused about things that are happening,” she said. “They can’t see the dementia, but they do see that changed behaviour.

“This session can help people understand what they can’t see and understand what might be happening and why it’s happening.”

Ms Allen said that by attending, community members can also be connected to the range of supports that Dementia Australia offers.

“There’s quite a number of services that we link them into, such as our library, our counselling service, and we have individual support available as well. There’s a big network,” she said.

“They also have the option of contacting our National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 24/7. There’s no problem too big or too small and you don’t have to have a diagnosis to contact us.”

Understanding Changes in Behaviour takes place on Tuesday 3 September from 1pm to 3pm at Dementia Australia at 1/10-16 Forest St.

There are limited places available so registrations are essential for this free workshop, which can be made on the Eventbrite website.