Home-based Dementia Advisory Service Launched for People with Dementia and Their Carers

For older people living in the southern metropolitan region of Melbourne, they can now take advantage of a unique home-based dementia advisory service which is delivered in the comfort of their own home.

Leading aged care provider Southern Cross Care (Vic) has recently launched a new Dementia Advisory Service, aimed at supporting people with dementia and their carers with information and practical day-to-day advice to help them better manage the changes that dementia brings.

Southern Cross Care (Vic) CEO, Andrew Newton, said that with the right support and care, people living with dementia can still live a fulfilling and meaningful life.

“A dementia diagnosis does not mean a person has to give up the things that they love or enjoy. It may simply mean making some small changes in their life to make daily living easier and help them maintain a sense of control,” said Mr Newton.

“We know how important it is for older people to be able to retain their everyday roles and to continue to live independently in their own home. That’s why our Dementia Advisory Service is different. Upon initial contact, one of our dementia healthcare specialists will make a home visit to meet with the consumer personally so that we can develop advice that is tailored to the person’s individual needs and circumstances.”

Funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services, Southern Cross Care (Vic)’s Dementia Advisory Service is currently available in the southern metropolitan region of Melbourne covering the municipalities of Kingston, Bayside, Frankston and Mornington Peninsula. People living with dementia are eligible for the service if they live in the region, and are aged 65 years or above.

“Dementia is today the single biggest health issue facing older people in Australia. Our Dementia Advisory Service is part of our three-year dementia strategic plan to help us achieve the best outcomes for people living with dementia and their carers,” said Mr Newton.

For more information on Southern Cross Care (Vic)’s responsive and unique homebased Dementia Advisory Service, please call 1800 508 008.