International Dementia Conference

September 25, 2024

Pictured above: left to right: Jingyao Wang, Clinical Care Coordinator - Marsfield; Alberto Barros, Clinical Governance Manager; Janelle Lozano, FM Sutherland; Erin Glanville, Regional Director; Abbie Dawson, Recreational Therapy Regional Advisor; Jacqueline Quirke, Engagement & Purposeful Living Manager.

Staff from across SCC recently gathered in Sydney for the International Dementia Conference, a pivotal event that addresses the profound impact of dementia on our communities. This biannual conference is a gathering of expertise, bringing together leading minds in complex dementia and palliative care. It offers invaluable opportunities for networking and sharing groundbreaking research. Discover the key insights and takeaways from Regional Director Erin Glanville from the two-day event.

Q. What were the most important insights or findings from the conference? 

A. The emphasis on the importance of early diagnosis and the development of new blood biomarkers that could help identify dementia at its earliest stages along with research into new drug therapies. The mental and emotional health of caregivers was insightful, with understandings into resources, training, and support systems to help those caring for those with dementia and how important it is for caregivers to engage in these services. Other topics addressed included cultural considerations in care approaches and the impact of ageing populations, the challenges once you or a loved one receives a diagnosis as well as how difficult it can be to navigate your way to help and services.

Q. What are the current challenges in dementia care, and what solutions were proposed at the conference? 

A. We heard how the media often portrays people living with dementia to be quite bleak, the depictions of dementia in mainstream media can often dehumanise individuals living with the condition, causing fear, misunderstanding, and even discrimination within the community. What was considered was the ability for us to hear how more accurate representations can foster more of an understanding among the public, illustrating that people with dementia can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives, which is something SCC is committed to.

Q. Were there any notable speakers or sessions that particularly resonated with you?

A. There were many amazing speakers both internationally and from Australia, and it was really enlightening to hear from so many people around the world who are committed to enhancing someone’s journey living with dementia.

Q. How can we enhance our person-centred care approach based on what you learned? 

A. Globally we can address not just physical health but also emotional, social, and spiritual needs. Recognising the whole person can lead to better outcomes and improved resident outcomes.

Q. What strategies were suggested for involving families more effectively in the care process?  
A. Co-designing our models and further developing our partnerships with our residents.

Q. Did you learn about any new or innovative practices in dementia care that could be implemented at SCC? 
A. Having a uniformed, evidenced based palliative care kit that comprises of documentation and resources. We have come away with some really useful insights and potentials for documentation and also practices that will benefit our residents and staff.

Q. How do you plan to share what you learned with your colleagues and implement new ideas? 
A. SCC is taking these highlights back to our dementia taskforce to develop and co-design new policies and procedures, action plans and education delivering best practise strategies to our residents.