New Dementia Action Plan Aims to Make SA More Dementia-Friendly
With over 472,000 Australians living with dementia, including 34,170 in South Australia, the launch of a Dementia Action Plan marks a significant stride towards creating dementia-friendly communities across the state.
This initiative, spearheaded by Dementia Australia in collaboration with Parliamentary Friends of Dementia Co-Convenors Erin Thompson MP and Penny Pratt MP, aims to make South Australia a model of support and inclusivity for those affected by dementia.
The Dementia Action Plan, initiated at a Roundtable meeting at the Parliament of South Australia in 2023, follows the successful launch of a similar plan in New South Wales last year.
Developed with input from Dementia Australia, Dementia Advocates and the Parliamentary Friends of Dementia Co-Convenors, the Dementia Action Plan has been finalised and will be implemented over the next two years.
This plan outlines how South Australian Members of Parliament can lead efforts to make their communities more dementia-friendly, ensuring that the needs of people living with dementia, their families, and carers remain a priority.
Significance of the Dementia Action Plan
Kylie Miskovski, General Manager of Policy and Advocacy at Dementia Australia, emphasised the significance of this new plan, stating:
‘The focus of the program has been on grassroots community advocacy, actions and activity to help drive awareness of the disease and to work towards reducing the stigma that is sadly still experienced by many people living with dementia.
‘The Action Plan represents a new and exciting component in the Dementia-Friendly Communities program in South Australia...’
Community Impact and Parliamentary Support
Erin Thompson MP, Co-Convenor and Member for Davenport also highlighted the widespread impact of dementia, noting:
‘Almost everyone has been touched by dementia in some way, whether they are affected personally or know a loved one who has experienced this awful illness.
‘This is why I’m delighted to work with Dementia Australia and my Parliamentary colleagues to help support the needs of those living with dementia.
‘I look forward to the Action Plan for South Australia being rolled out in the community so we can assist those living with dementia but also their families and carers, who do an amazing job.’
The Dementia Action Plan ensures that South Australian Members of Parliament and their staff are encouraged to become Dementia Friends and use Dementia-Friendly Communities resources.
These resources include key messages, videos, and presentations to promote dementia-friendly communities in their local speeches and events.
This ongoing commitment aims to transform South Australia into a model for dementia-friendly communities Australia-wide.
Relevance to Seniors and Retirees
Furthermore, this initiative is particularly significant for seniors and retirees who are downsizing or affected by dementia.
As they transition to smaller living spaces, the support and understanding from dementia-friendly communities can greatly improve their quality of life.
The Dementia Action Plan fosters awareness and inclusivity, ensuring their specific needs are met and providing a safer, more supportive community.
These efforts make living well with dementia a realistic goal, making everyday life more manageable and fulfilling.
Key Takeaways:
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The Dementia Action Plan aims to create dementia-friendly communities in South Australia, benefiting over 34,000 residents living with dementia.
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Spearheaded by Dementia Australia and Parliamentary Friends of Dementia Co-Convenors, the plan seeks to make South Australia a model of support and inclusivity for those affected by dementia.
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Developed with input from Dementia Australia and its advocates, the plan will guide South Australian MPs in leading efforts to make their communities dementia-friendly over the next two years.
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The plan focuses on grassroots community advocacy to drive awareness and reduce stigma, with support from MPs like Erin Thompson MP, emphasising the widespread impact of dementia.
About Dementia Australia
Dementia Australia is the trusted source for information, education, and services for over 421,000 Australians living with dementia and the 1.6 million people involved in their care.
The organisation advocates for positive change and supports vital research. Their mission is to support those impacted by dementia and help them live as well as possible.
For support or inquiries, contact the National Dementia Helpline at 1800 100 500, available 24/7, with interpreter services available.
