Parklands Cottage will bring a WISER approach to dementia support at its new South West Rocks centre.
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The West Kempsey-based provider will operate a day session every Thursday from March 22, at the Uniting Church’s SWR hall at 6 Landsborough St.
The sessions offer a program that engages participants in a range of activities that can be physical, creative or practical, allowing them to maintain long-held skills and opportunities to try their hand at new skills.
International research has highlighted the benefits to people living with dementia – as well as their family carers, and support workers – of taking part in meaningful and purposeful activities, and of maintaining connections with their communities.
Parklands Cottage employs the Omnicare Alliance’s WISER approach to dementia support, aimed at promoting independence at home for a better quality of life and improved wellbeing.
WISER (wellness, innovation, support, enablement and research) adapts Montessori principles that recognise the strengths, talents and interests of the individual.
The West Kempsey and SWR centres are two of Omnicare’s six dementia respite facilities in the Macleay, Hastings and Camden Haven areas.
Parklands Cottage team leader Debbie Hannan outlined the benefits of the WISER approach.
“Dementia can be very challenging, not just for those living with the condition, but also their loved ones and the professionals that support their care,” she said.
“WISER is a holistic way of addressing the needs of the individual, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
“By participating in our programs, our clients typically feel they have a role to play in the lives of others, and are proud to contribute actively to their community. This is so important to their wellbeing.
“Our activities often awaken memories and in the early stages of dementia that can slow down its progression.”
The day sessions at the SWR Uniting Church hall will run from 9am to 2pm every Thursday. There are plans to expand the service to include a session each Monday.
More information is available by calling Debbie Hannan, on 0429 956 348.
“We’d love to hear from people interested in joining our team of fully trained volunteers,” she added.