Dr Sabrina Pit, Dr Louise Horstmanshof and Dr Robert G Lingard write about people living in the community with dementia, and their carers, in a recent article that suggests how to help during floods and other emergencies.
They are active members of Dementia Inclusive Ballina, which was officially founded in 2021 as a not-for profit organisation to create more dementia-inclusive rural communities.
“We can all do a little bit to help before, during and after floods and other emergencies as a community member, volunteer, neighbour, or emergency services or health care professional,” Dr Pit said.
She said the number of people on the North Coast living with dementia was set to rise.
“During emergencies we all get stressed but for people living with dementia, this can lead to extra stress and changed behaviours that may make it more difficult for carers as well,” Dr Pit said.
She suggested ways to help included preparing “when the sun is shining, not only when it is raining”.
People could also teach carers and their loved ones how to use digital tools, including apps that are helpful during an emergency. Dementia Inclusive Ballina organises local training for people specifically caring for people living with dementia and their loved ones in a safe caring environment. All skill levels are welcome. All carers of people living with dementia throughout the Northern Rivers are welcome to attend.
Another suggestion was to help create a social network for people you know who care for people living with dementia, or those with dementia who live alone.
“With preparation, online connections and a strong social network, we can show the strength of our community and caring, especially for people living with dementia, and their carers,” Dr Pit said.
Anyone interested in joining as a member, attending digital training or a social carers group, or simply helping a group of passionate locals create a dementia-inclusive community, can email [email protected].
Dementia Inclusive Ballina Alliance Inc. is a registered charity.