Nillumbik Shire Council, in partnership with Holstep Health (formerly Merri Health), is launching a pilot dementia care program to introduce Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) to the local community.
With an ageing population in Nillumbik, dementia has emerged as a growing health challenge, impacting many local families, said Mayor, John Dumaresq,
The Mayor said Council was committed via its Health and Wellbeing Plan to work with the Nillumbik Dementia Alliance to support those living with dementia and their carers.
“We recognised the need for more local support,” he said.
“We hope this pilot will be the start of a long-lasting partnership with Holstep Health to address the impacts of dementia and that individuals with dementia and their families will benefit from a local and affordable option to support cognition, independence, and wellbeing.”
The program, which will kick off in July, consists of 14 sessions across seven weeks (two sessions per week) and will be facilitated by a Diversional Therapist and Council staff.
CST is a unique, well-established psychological therapy program for people with dementia. It is an evidence-based program that is stimulating, enjoyable, and cost-effective, the Council said in a statement.
Despite its proven success in the UK particularly, CST is not widely available in Australia. This pilot program is an important step in making CST more accessible to people with dementia in Nillumbik, said the Council.
Originally devised from research into effective dementia care, CST was evaluated in a study with participants reporting an increased quality of life, improved memory, and enhanced cognitive abilities.
While CST has many clinical benefits, its social impact is just as significant, providing a fun, engaging and supportive environment for participants, the Council said.
For more information or to express your interest contact Council’s Social Connection officer at social.connection@nillumbik.vic.gov.au or 9433 3295.
