Dementia Friendly Communities
We have made the commitment to being a dementia friendly community which is defined by Dementia Australia as “inclusive suburbs or towns where people living with dementia are able to continue living the life they choose.” You can read more about dementia friendly communities and find out what you can do by going to the Dementia Australia website.
Dementia is not a normal part of ageing. It is the fastest growing disability in Australia, currently affecting more than half a million Australians, with that number set to double in the next 25 years. However, many people continue to live active and rich lives after diagnosis. As a community we have a role in supporting people with dementia to live and age well. We employ an Ageing Well Officer to progress the aims of making the Shire dementia friendly. This includes organising regular staff and volunteer training and community awareness raising events.
Sensory Garden at Chiltern Neighbourhood House
The Sensory Garden is an initiative of Indigo North Health and has been designed using dementia-friendly principles such as circular paths, sensory experiences and quiet spaces to be enjoyed by aged care residents and their families and carers.
Featuring a dementia-friendly mural by local artist Kirrily Anderson and wicker beds, an arbor and seating made by the Men’s Shed, the space supports people with sensory needs and people living with dementia to have a meaningful activity.
The garden will host the Chiltern Neighbourhood House’s fortnightly Memory Cafe which empowers communities to support couples, families and people living with dementia.
The project was completed with support from the Indigo Shire Council and funding from two Victorian Government grants – the Supporting Carers Locally fund and a Universal Design Grant.
Caring for Carers Project
Council also supports the carer support group Changing Minds in Beechworth and is working with Carer Gateway to establish more carer support groups across the Shire. Many of the local businesses and services in Beechworth have taken steps towards being dementia friendly and Council is working towards greater inclusivity across the Shire.
In July 2021, Indigo Shire Council in partnership with the Indigo Community Dementia Alliance was successful in securing a grant of $34,267.60 from the Victorian Government to support carers. The project will be managed by the Alliance as a collective, with the Indigo Shire Council Ageing Well Officer taking the lead. This project focuses on carers of people living with dementia and cognitive decline living rurally and regionally.
Useful contacts
Dementia Australia is the peak body in Australia to assist you with a diagnosis or caring role, or just if you have questions. You can access a large range of tips here or you can contact them on the national hotline 1800 100 500.
If you would like more information on what you or your business, service or group can do to become dementia friendly please contact the Ageing Well Officer on 1300 365 003.