People with Purpose: Doubling down on dementia

Tell us a little bit about your career background.

Before I retired, my career was in economic, business and community development.

I have been recognised and received many awards for the work I have done in this area, one being the Centenary Medal for outstanding contribution to rural small business and community.

Now that I have retired, I am busier than ever advocating for those caring for their loved ones with dementia through providing innovative solutions to help the carers journey and those they care for.

I use my experience and skills in asset-based community development, which include:

• a focus on our assets and strengths rather than problems and needs

• remaining grounded in what I can do rather than what I can’t do

• identifying and calling upon the gifts, resources, skills, and knowledge that already exist in the community.

How did you become involved with Heathcote Dementia Alliance?

I became involved with dementia by default.

In 2014 the local hospital had pulled a steering group together of health and government organisations for a dementia village. They were advised by government they needed a community representative and due to my role in the community the CEO reach out to me.

I had no knowledge of dementia, nor did I know anyone. I soon realised this was the most hideous disease and we as community needed to do something to help both the person with dementia and their carer.

I pulled together a small group of committed community members and founded the Heathcote Dementia Alliance. In 2021 we became a not-for-profit and registered charity, and because of our dedication and passion we have gone on to achieve remarkable things.

Since then, there has been no looking back.

What are the Alliance's goals?

To reimagine dementia care by influencing perception of person-centred care through community, built form, innovation and technology.

Community

We know that the best solutions come not from assumptions but from truly listening. That’s why, from the very beginning, we have partnered with those who know the journey best – the people living with dementia and their carers.

We formed a carers advisory group whose insights have shaped every aspect of our work. Their lived experiences have been our greatest resource, and their voices have become the foundation of our purpose.

Innovation

We formed a consortium, and we applied for and were successful in receiving funding from the Australian government to develop GreenConnect Dementia Respite, an innovative model of respite care designed to enhance the quality of life for people living with dementia and their carers through nature-based respite activities, experiences and accommodation.

Built form and technology

One of our biggest outcomes is leading the design and construction of a Smart Care Villa to provide respite and support for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers

The Care Villa offers a safe and comforting environment, combining cutting-edge AI safety monitoring technology with a soothing creative design.

One of our team is currently in London to accept a prestigious award for Most Outstanding Creator of Fit-for-Purpose Affordable Dementia Housing in the World in 2024.

How big an issue is dementia in Australian society?

It's big! Dementia is a major issue in Australian society.

Dementia is the second leading cause of death of all Australians. Provisional data suggests dementia will soon be the leading cause of death.

In 2024, it is estimated that more than 421,000 Australians live with dementia. Without a medical breakthrough, the number of people with dementia is expected to increase to more than 812,500 by 2054.

More than 1.6 million people in Australia help care for someone living with dementia. About 54% of people living in permanent residential aged care have dementia.

What can Australians do to support loved ones battling dementia?

Two out of three people with dementia are thought to be living in the community. No one individual, government, industry, business, or community can fix the problem on their own.

The problem belongs to all of us. We need to work together to fix it. Work together to help reduce the stigma attached to dementia. Collaboration, compassion, and shared vision have the power to redefine what’s possible.