How the Central Coast Dementia Alliance is Making a Difference
Dementia touches the lives of many, not just those diagnosed but also their families, friends, and carers. The Central Coast Dementia Alliance (CCDA), formed in 2018, understands the profound impact dementia can have on individuals and their loved ones. With a mission to enhance the wellbeing of people living with dementia, the CCDA is working tirelessly to create a more supportive and understanding community on the Central Coast.
Why Dementia Awareness and Community Engagement Matter
Dementia is more than just memory loss; it’s a complex condition that affects a person’s ability to think, communicate, and carry out daily activities. As the Central Coast region faces the highest prevalence of dementia in New South Wales, with over 7,700 people currently living with the condition—a number expected to double by 2054—the need for awareness and community support has never been greater. (Dementia Australia).
For families and friends of those living with dementia, understanding dementia is crucial. It can be overwhelming to see a loved one struggle, but with the right knowledge and support, you can make a significant difference in their quality of life. This is where community engagement becomes vital. A dementia–friendly community is one where people living with dementia are understood, respected, and supported. It’s a place where they can maintain their daily routines for as long as possible, feel safe, and continue to be active members of society.
The Central Coast, known for having the highest count of long–term health conditions in the state, is home to a large ageing population. Areas like Erina, where nearly 44% of residents are over the age of 65, are particularly impacted. Recognizing this, the CCDA has made it their mission to transform the Central Coast into a dementia–friendly environment where everyone, from young adults to the elderly, can contribute to, and benefit from, a more inclusive society.
A Milestone Achievement: The Dementia Australia Grant
In a significant step forward, the Central Coast Dementia Alliance recently secured a grant through Dementia Australia. This funding enables CCDA to scale up their efforts and make an even greater impact on the community. The grant will be used to raise awareness, promote early diagnosis, and create a more inclusive environment for people living with dementia.
Engaging the Community: What We’re Doing with the Grant
The Dementia–Friendly Communities project, which aims to educate and engage the community in meaningful ways, will be held on September 20th, during Dementia Action Week.
There will be a special event at Erina Fair, in HOYTS Cinema, the event is designed to be both informative and interactive, providing valuable insights into dementia and offering practical tips on how to support those living with dementia and their carers.
At the event, participants can expect an education session which will include a Q&A with audience participation, educational material on dementia, including the services and community programs available and Dementia Australia advocates and CCDA volunteers to answer questions.
How You Can Help
Whether you’re 25 or 70, you can play a role in making the Central Coast a more dementia–friendly place. Educate yourself about dementia, share what you’ve learned with others, and look for ways to support those in your community who are living with Dementia or carers of those living with dementia. Small actions, like learning how to communicate effectively with someone living with dementia or participating in community events can make a big difference.
The CCDA’s work is about more than just raising awareness; it’s about creating a community where people living with dementia are not just cared for, but truly included and supported. By participating in these initiatives you’re helping to build a future where everyone can live with dignity and respect regardless of their cognitive abilities.
Join us for the Dementia–Friendly Communities project – Dementia Essentials 20th September 2024 | Hoyts Erina Fair | Sessions commence at the following times: 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm | This will be a 45–minute session for the community Register on CCDA Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CentralCoastDementiaAlliance
The Central Coast Dementia Alliance – We are committed to making enjoying life easier for people living with dementia, and their carers and families in the Central Coast community by actively working together for positive outcomes. We rely on volunteers from the following partnerships: ADSSI, Baptist Care, BisHealth Central Coast Council, Central Coast LHD, Central Coast Rotary DCaf’s, ConnectAbility, Hammond Care, Home Instead, Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network, Right at Home & Wesley mission.