Ensuring carers are not alone

CARERS, people living with dementia, families, community members and service providers came together at Reflections at Eppalock this week for the Dementia Alliance Caring Together Expo.

Attendees heard from Dementia Alliance members and service providers, browsed information stalls and enjoyed a barbecue lunch.

Two resources developed by Dementia Alliance, the Caring Together Handbook and the Community-Led Dementia Care Masterclass Series and Handbook, were launched at the event.

“Today showed what can happen when community, carers, services and lived experience come together in one place,” said Dementia Alliance president Sandra Slatter.

Students Daisy and Remy from Bendigo South East College helped Charlie Miller and Alan Hough at the sausage sizzle stall. Photo: Sandra James.

“The atmosphere was warm, practical and hopeful, and the connections made today will continue well beyond the expo.

“The Caring Together Expo was a beautiful example of community-led dementia care in action.

“It brought people together not just to share information, but to build relationships, reduce isolation and remind carers and families that they are not alone.

“We were overwhelmed by the positive response.

“Carers were able to speak directly with services, gather useful information, enjoy the surroundings at Reflections, and connect with others who understand the journey.”

St John of God Bendigo director of mission Kate Ellis made the dedication for The Tree of Hope Garden.

“It speaks to the heart of what community can be,” she said.

Dementia Alliance president Sandra Slatter said connections made at the Caring Together Expo will continue well beyond the event. Photo: Sandra James.

“It reminds us that even in times of uncertainty, grief, change or challenge, hope can still grow.

“For people living with dementia, for carers, and for families, spaces like this matter deeply.

“They offer somewhere to pause, to reflect, to remember, to connect and to simply be.

“This garden has been created through many hands and generous hearts; volunteers, students, community members, and especially Bruce and Craig, whose work has helped bring this beautiful space to life.

“We dedicate the Tree of Hope Garden with gratitude for the people who made it possible, for the community that will gather here, and for the hope this place will continue to offer.

“May this garden be a place of peace, connection and strength. May it remind all who visit that they are not alone.”