Firstly, my sincere apologies to a friend and AADAC colleague, Maxine Thompson, who ran the pre conference workshop with me the day before the National Dementia Congress. When I reported on it here, I inadvertently left Maxine out from my précis. The feedback we both received from participants is they found it helpful, and we sincerely hope t is the beginning of change away from Prescribed Disengagement to support to live alongside our disabilities, as well as possible.
This is the information participants received prior to registering;
Pre-Conference Workshops
Wednesday 18th February 2015 | Time: 9.00am – 5.00pm
WORKSHOP A | 9:00AM-12:30PM (including 30 minute morning tea)
Diagnosed with Dementia: What Next?
- This workshop is aimed at health care professionals including medical practitioners as well as family, carers & service providers including people working for dementia advocacy or carer organisations, regarding the next steps for their patients or clients following the diagnosis of dementia
- It is focused more towards post diagnostic support for people with younger onset, but the models of care being reviewed are applicable to anyone in the early to mid-stages of dementia
- The side product of the push for earlier diagnosis will mean there will be greater numbers of people diagnosed earlier in the disease process,& who want support to live in their own homes as residential aged care is never a first choice
- Two models of care will be discussed, with the focus on changing the post diagnostic experience from Prescribed DisengagementTM to one of engagement & support for disabilities
- This workshop will allow you to work with your clients & patients to improve outcomes, wellbeing & quality of life
Workshop will be facilitated by:
Kate Swaffer, Consumer Advocate; MSc (Dementia Care 2014), BPsych, BA, Chef, Grad Dip Grief Counselling, Nurse
Maxine Thompson, Physiotherapist
These two women are living well with a diagnosis of younger onset dementia & have significant expertise in non-pharmacological & positive psychosocial interventions for people with dementia. Kate has a focus on changing the post diagnostic support from that of Prescribed DisengagementTM, a term she has developed & published on, to one of engagement, & on stigma & language. Maxine has a focus on encouraging people with dementia to remain fully engaged with society,& is keen to breakdown any institutional barriers discouraging them from doing so. She is involved with various Alzheimer’s committees, & also runs a movement class at a local Residential Care facility.
