People living with dementia and their carers across Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) will benefit from the creation of a new Dementia Awareness and Support Team (DAST).
The new team will provide support to people living with dementia and their support persons to enable them to lead an active and meaningful life and support them through the health system.
Western NSW Local Health District Chief Executive Mark Spittal said the service will provide the support and care needed to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.
“This new district-wide service will ensure people living with dementia have the support needed to navigate the health system and continue to thrive in the community,” Mr Spittal said.
WNSWLHD Aged Care Services Division Manager Mary-Anne Spence said the team is passionate about supporting those living with dementia and their loved ones.
“The team works tirelessly to support people living with dementia through comprehensive assessments for people referred to the Geriatric Medicine service, providing clinical support through the Geriatrician consultation, and follow-up support for those diagnosed with a cognitive impairment,” Ms Spence said.
The DAST team works with people living with dementia, their support persons, and healthcare staff, to provide case management, links with other services, and staff education. DAST also works across the District to promote dementia awareness.
“In Dubbo, the team coordinates the weekly Sing Out Choir for people living with dementia and their supporters. Our goal is to assist people to continue to be involved in their communities and lead an active and meaningful life,” Ms Spence said.
Anyone seeking more information can contact the WNSWLHD Aged Care Access Centre 1800 942 433 or email WNSWLHD-DAST@health.nsw.gov.au