Dementia Australia has released four Help Sheets outlining tips for people living with dementia, carers, family and friends of people living with dementia, and residential and home care providers on how to navigate the global coronavirus pandemic.
Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe said people living with dementia were among the most vulnerable groups of society as the crisis unfolds.
“There is confusion in the community and new rules announced daily to keep pace with this rapidly evolving situation,” she said.
“For people living with dementia this can create even more uncertainty.”
Ms McCabe said the needs and capacity of people living with dementia must be prioritised in the response to COVID-19.
“We have developed these Help Sheets to provide clarity on what people can do to achieve the best possible outcomes for people living with dementia.”
The Help Sheets consist of:
- Tips for people living with dementia – outlines COVID-19 symptoms, hygiene tips, the importance of having a good support network, ideas to remain active and engaged while in self-isolation and where to go for help.
- Tips for carers, families and friends of people living with dementia – outlines helpful tips for primary carers, family and friends, including ideas for remaining active and where to go for help.
- Tips for residential care providers – outlines the impacts COVID-19 may have on residents, tips on alternative activities and how to support continued engagement with families and carers.
- Tips for home care providers – outlines the impacts COVID-19 may have on people living with dementia, tips to reduce heightened anxiety and where to go for help.
“We are here to support people living with dementia, their family, carers and friends, and anyone in the health and aged care industries,” Ms McCabe said.
“It is important for them to know they are not alone, especially during this unprecedented time.”
For further information and support call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.
