Aussie way of life ideal for dementia-friendly communities
Via the Canberra Times:
Australia, with its weather, way of life and friendly people, has a unique advantage to produce “dementia-friendly” communities and help those affected lead fulfilling lives, according to a visiting British expert. Steve Milton, a director of Innovations in Dementia in Britain, was in Canberra this week to give a talk about dementia-friendly communities on behalf of Alzheimer’s Australia. There were sound economic reasons for supporting people with dementia at a community level, he said. “If you were able to prevent people with dementia going into care homes earlier than they needed to by 12 months, we’re looking at a saving of $2 billion, which is not an insignificant amount to do something that people want anyway.” Alzheimer’s Australia national president Graeme Samuel said it was important to help people with dementia sustain their independence, dignity and sense of community. Milton said access to public transport, ensuring environments were easily accessible to people with dementia and things such as Australia’s many sports clubs were important factors in helping those affected overcome barriers such as social isolation and stigma.