What is Dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term for various symptoms of illnesses that cause a gradual decline in a person’s daily functioning. This may include a loss of memory, rationality, intellect, social skills, and physical capabilities.

The root cause of dementia is still unknown, although there are a variety of conditions that may cause someone to develop dementia. Common types of dementia include:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Vascular dementia
• Frontotemporal dementia
• Lewy body disease
• And many more

Anybody can develop dementia, but this risk increases with age. According to Dementia Australia statistics, dementia is more common after the age of 65. Moreover, nearly 70% of aged care residents in Australia experience moderate to severe dementia symptoms. Symptoms can manifest slowly and magnify as time passes. Dementia Australia also reports that this condition affects one in almost every 10 people over the age of 65. For those over 85, this figure jumps to one in every three. 

Aged care facilities offer practical services to enable dementia care residents to live comfortably, while also providing flexible access to loved ones for additional relief. This makes residential care facilities a particularly reliable and effective form of support for people living with dementia. 

Symptoms of Dementia

It is important to note that dementia symptoms vary from person to person; not everyone will have the same experiences. Additionally, early signs of dementia can be subtle and it may be difficult to notice or confused with the regular ageing process.

Common symptoms of dementia may include:

• Difficulty completing daily tasks
• Decline in judgement and problem-solving skills
• Persistent and progressive memory loss
• Significant changes in personality and behaviour
• Development of psychological symptoms such as anxiety, apathy, depression, or agitation
• Difficulty with speech, writing, or comprehension
• Confusion around time and place
• Disorientation
• Trouble with depth perception and understanding things they see (objects, people, etc.)
• Frequent misplacing of items in unusual places

Remember that many conditions share similar symptoms to the ones listed above. If your loved one shows a few of these signs, they may not necessarily be dealing with dementia. Correct diagnosis is essential for receiving appropriate treatment. 

If you are concerned that a family member or friend may be developing dementia, contact a health professional or the National Dementia Helpline for guidance. They can help diagnose your loved one and determine what steps you can take next. 

What is Dementia Person-Centred Care?

Person-centred care is an individualised, ‘patient-first’ approach to aged care. It places the person receiving healthcare at the heart of the matter, treating them with the respect and compassion they deserve. Moreover, it centres all relevant healthcare facilities, services, policies, and communication around their well-being. This means a person-centred care approach will always involve the individual in their own healthcare decisions, and strive to understand their personal requirements on a case-by-case basis.

Since dementia manifests differently for every individual, regardless of its underlying cause, residential aged care facilities and services need to be able to cater for diversity. Areas such as mobility, diet, and medical history differ vastly between people, meaning that this personalised approach is required for the best care possible. 

This is why our facility takes the time and effort to fully understand the health and lifestyle choices that would suit each individual best. At Kew Gardens, residents regularly consult with our fully-trained caregivers to tailor their care plans to their evolving needs. 

The Importance of Caring for Dementia in Aged Care Facilities

When it comes to residential aged care homes, there are many reasons why high-quality dementia care is so important. While there is currently no known cure for the condition, we can enhance and maintain the everyday experience of those living with dementia. This ensures that they can live with dignity and humanity.

A fulfilling life goes beyond satisfying physical needs, and the same rings true for your loved one. These include needs that are emotional, spiritual, cognitive, and personal, which are all interconnected. 

With this in mind, the dementia care plan is based on a holistic care approach. This means it is tailored specifically to each individual’s needs, combining various methods such as:

• Counselling
• Massage therapy
• Aromatherapy
• Colour therapy
• Music therapy, and many more.

What to Expect From Professional Dementia Care in Melbourne

With dementia care, it is all about ensuring that your friend or family member is well and truly supported. This enables them to live comfortably, while also maintaining not only their identity but dignity as well.

Here at Kew Gardens Aged Care, you can expect compassionate support through a tailored dementia care-specific plan. This includes providing various activities and support services that focus on improving dementia symptoms and facilitating the independence of residents, such as:

• Facilitating community through activities, hobbies, and regular social events
• Helping with daily household tasks
• Preparing meals catered to specific needs and preferences
• Assisting with mobility
• Providing medical support, along with a choice of experienced accredited doctors

Our personally tailored care plans can also include:

• Respite services
• Palliative services
• Diversional therapy
• Music therapy
• Physiotherapy
• Speech therapy, and much more.

Delivered by kind, knowledgeable caregivers, volunteers, and staff, the support at our facility is second to none. Here, expert care enhances your loved one’s everyday life. You will receive a commitment to making this experience as stress-free as possible for both our residents and their loved ones.

Specialised Dementia Care at Kew Gardens Aged Care

When it comes to the search for specialised dementia care across Melbourne, Kew Gardens Aged Care goes above and beyond. Your needs are met with high-quality person-centred services that put you at the heart of your healthcare.

Our caregivers are fully trained to care for someone with dementia and tailor individualised care plans to every resident. We offer daily assistance with:

• Physical activity
• Sundowning
• Support for behavioural differences caused by dementia 
• Encouraging healthy ageing
• A wide range of engaging social events and activities 
• Invaluable community support 
• Flexible visiting hours for family and friends 
• Daily services such as laundry, specialised catering, expert medical support, and more. 

You can contact us for specialised dementia care services in Melbourne. Find out what options best suit your loved one’s needs and preferences. Our team will also answer all questions or concerns throughout your loved one’s period of care. 

FAQs

Who is eligible for dementia care?

You may be eligible for dementia care if you are an older person living with dementia and need help fulfilling your daily needs.

To determine your eligibility, you will need to attend an in-person consultation with Aged Care Assessment Services (ACAS).

When should someone with dementia go into a care home?

If you notice any particular signs that might indicate dementia, contact a doctor for professional guidance. 

You can also gauge care home eligibility by consulting an aged care assessment team. 

Is dementia hereditary?

The majority of dementia cases are not hereditary. Rarer types of dementia may have stronger genetic links, but this makes up a very small percentage of overall dementia cases.