Dementia

Waratah Respite Service is recognised locally as the special provider for dementia respite care in Coffs Harbour and surrounding districts.

Dementia: Dementia is the term used to describe the symptoms of a large group of illnesses, which cause a progressive decline in a person’s mental functioning. Dementia entails loss of memory, intellect, rationality, social skills and normal emotional reactions, with most people developing symptoms over a period of years. Depending on the areas of the brain that are affected, the progression of dementia is usually unpredictable and unique to each individual.

Dementia is a growing health problem in Australia, but one that can be managed with strategies for prevention, education, treatment and improved community and health services.

Respite for carers: Our organisation strives to provide a coordinated, flexible, reliable and quality respite service to clients and carers, supporting carers in maintaining their care recipient at home, preventing premature or inappropriate admission to a residential care facility.

Waratah Respite Centre focusses on best practice in dementia care. Waratah is committed to developing strategies for carers to utilise when coping with dementia or behaviours of concern.

Care for the clients: Waratah Respite Centre endeavours to provide a safe, secure, sensitive and  nondirective atmosphere where clients have freedom of choice.

Waratah is a secure unit with wandering paths, raised garden beds, sensory garden and outdoor settings

Staff training: Staff are trained and receive on going education on dementia, including appropriate care for people with dementia. Our organisation has an excellent partnership with Alzheimer’s Australia and we co-host community and carer education sessions to raise awareness of the disease process, available assistance, resources and services within community.

www.alzheimers.org.au 

The dementia helpline 1800639331

Sensory Garden

Secure pleasant walkways