Almost half a million Australians live with dementia and more than 1.6 million Australians are involved in their care.
Delma, from the Sunshine Coast, is among those living with dementia.
She continues to have an independent life and enjoys craft and volunteering within the community thanks to the support of her family and home care services provider Be.
You will find Delma smiling as she volunteers at the local Op Shop every Wednesday, when she sorts through items, arranges displays and assists at the register.
“I look forward to my day volunteering at the op shop. It’s a lovely place to chat with other volunteers plus I like how it keeps my mind active,” she said.
Pauline, a volunteer driver with Be, picks up Delma from her home each Wednesday to transport her to and from the op shop.
Pauline and Delma have formed a beautiful friendship during the last two years and enjoy a good chat.
“Delma has a wonderful sense of humour and enjoys a chat and a laugh during our trips,” Pauline said.
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Be’s Community Coordinator Caroline understands the importance that – as someone living with dementia – Delma continues to enjoy doing things that are meaningful to her.
“Delma feels a wonderful sense of accomplishment and pride from her volunteering role with the Op Shop,” Caroline said.
“We can see that by supporting her to take part in this volunteering role we are empowering her to continue to live independently whilst having a range of supportive measures in place to help her be successful.”
Delma carries a large diary everywhere she goes – using it to record appointments and reminders as well as noting down interesting things and conversations.
“I always call Delma on Tuesday evening to confirm our Wednesday trip to the Op Shop and she immediately pops this in her diary, and she will often make notes from our chats to reflect on later,” Pauline said.
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Each person living with dementia is unique and research shows that maintaining relationships and interests can help people living with dementia to lead a better quality of life.
Linking dementia activities to everyday skills, hobbies and interests that a person enjoyed before their dementia diagnosis can offer many rewarding benefits.
With a little planning and preparation, you can help keep yourself or a loved one busy and actively engaged in meaningful activities.
Dementia Australia’s campaign, ‘A little support makes a big difference’, demonstrates that many people living with dementia can continue to live well for many years after their diagnosis.
About Be
Be has operated for 30 years and helps people live well in the community.
It provides home care packages, home support and transport services. As their needs change, clients can add more services that allow them to live independently in their own home for longer.
Be also provides social opportunities to help people stay connected to their community.
Information: wearebe.org.au
