New dementia and support team to care for WNSWLHD community

People living with dementia and their caregivers across the Western New South Wales Community Health District (WNSWLHD) will benefit from the creation of a new Dementia Awareness Support Team (DAST).

The new team will help people with dementia and their caregivers live active and meaningful lives and support them through the healthcare system.

Mark Spital, CEO of the Western New South Wales Rural Health District, said the service will provide some of the most vulnerable people in the community with much-needed support and care.

“This new district-wide service will ensure that people with dementia have the support they need to successfully navigate the healthcare system and continue to thrive in their communities,” Spital said.

WNSWLHD Aged Care Services Division Manager Mary Ann Spence said the team is passionate about supporting people with dementia and their loved ones.

“The team will help people live with dementia through comprehensive assessments of those referred to geriatric care services, clinical support through geriatric doctor visits, and follow-up support to those diagnosed with cognitive impairment. We are working tirelessly to support people,” said Ms Spence.

The DAST team works with people with dementia, their caregivers, and medical staff to provide case management, linkages with other services, and staff training. DAST also works district-wide to promote dementia awareness.

“In Dubbo, our team coordinates our weekly Sing Out Choir for people living with dementia and their supporters. It’s about helping them get on with their lives,” Spence said.

For more information, please contact the WNSWLHD Elderly Care Access Center on 1800 942 433 or email us. WNSWLHD-DAST@health.nsw.gov.au