INTHE QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER TOUCHOF ALZHEIMER’S AUSTRALIA NSW AUTUMN 2013. ISSUE 84

10WAYS WE SUPPORT PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA, CARERS & FAMILIES SPREAD THE LOVE HOW WE SHARED MIND OUR MESSAGE ON YOUNG VALENTINE’S DAY MINDS INSIDE THE NEW REPORT ON YOUNGER ONSET DEMENTIA NATIONAL RECOGNITION ALZHEIMER’S AUSTRALIA PRESIDENT ITA BUTTROSE NAMED AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR

NEWS • EDUCATION • FUNDRAISING • RESEARCH + IN TOUCH AUTUMN 2013 1

InTouch_ALZ17_Autumn_2013.indd 1 27/02/13 3:45 PM IN TOUCH CONTENTS The quarterly newsletter for members of Alzheimer’s Australia NSW 3 CHAIR’S AND CEO’S MESSAGES CEO The Hon. John Watkins 4 NEWS General Manager Services • DEMENTIA CAFE MEETINGS Robyn Faine • YOUNGER ONSET DEMENTIA REPORT RELEASED General Manager Policy, Research • 2013 MEMORY WALK AND JOG EVENTS and Information • HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY FROM Brendan Moore ALZHEIMER’S AUSTRALIA General Manager Human Resources • LIFE AFTER DRIVING and Volunteering • MORE ON FINANCIAL PLANNING Anneliese Coghlan General Manager Marketing 8 COVER STORY and Communications NATIONAL PRESIDENT ITA BUTTROSE NAMED Andrew Mills AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR General Manager Media Sarah Price 11 EDUCATION General Manager Fundraising • COURSES Simon Crowson General Manager Corporate Services 12 RESEARCH Chris Champ • DEMENTIA-SPECIFIC TRAINING Honorary Medical Advisors • ANAESTHESIA RISK Professor Henry Brodaty AO • EARLY DETECTION Director, Dementia Collaborative • BENZODIAZEPINES Research Centre • LIFESTYLE AND BRAIN HEALTH Dr Helen Creasey Senior Staff Specialist, Geriatric 13 SERVICES Medicine, Deputy Director of CERA • 10 WAYS ALZNSW CAN HELP Dr Michael Valenzuela • Q&A Research Fellow in Regenerative Neuroscience, School of Psychiatry, 14 FUNDRAISING University of NSW HOW YOU CAN HELP ALZNSW Editors Andrew Mills and Sarah Price 15 IN MEMORIAM T: (02) 9805 0100 E: [email protected] [email protected] 16 RESOURCES • IN THE LIBRARY Alzheimer’s Australia NSW • CROSSWORD PO Box 6042 North Ryde NSW 2113 Australia T: (02) 9805 0100 F: (02) 9805 1665 E: [email protected] W: www.fi ghtdementia.org.au

Registered as a Print Post Publication Number PP: 234077/00008 ISSN: 1038-7854

Articles in this publication provide a general summary only of the subject matter covered. Any person with dementia or a carer for a person with dementia should seek professional advice about their specifi c case. AlzNSW is not liable for any error or omission in this publication. Permission should be sought from the editor before reproducing articles. Once permission is given the source must be acknowledged. Products and services contained in paid advertisements or otherwise featured in this publication are not necessarily endorsed by AlzNSW. AlzNSW does not endorse any products or services of any description. The views expressed by contributors to this newsletter are not necessarily shared by AlzNSW.

Published on behalf of Alzheimer’s Australia NSW by Mahlab Media www.mahlabmedia.com.au

InTouch_ALZ17_Autumn_2013.indd 2 27/02/13 3:45 PM CEO’S MESSAGE NATIONAL HONOUR CHAIR’S MESSAGE The year has got off to a great start A GROWING with our National President Ita AWARENESS Buttrose named Australian of the Year. What a welcome and very I am honoured to have been accepted by the well-deserved Board to take over from Peter Baume AC as Chair. honour. In the two months I have been a member of The Award is a AlzNSW, I have been able to meet the senior wonderful recognition management, the Advisory Council, the National of all the work Ita Board of Alzheimer’s Australia, one of our founders has done for people with dementia during Professor Henry Brodaty, the Executive Director of her lengthy involvement with Alzheimer’s The Brain and Mind Research Institute Professor Ian Australia and the enormous contribution Hickie, and a number of people living with dementia she has made through her work in the and their carers. media and in championing other social and I have learnt from these meetings that we are health issues. blessed with a Board of skill and commitment, from Ita is not only National President of diverse backgrounds and with a clear dedication to the task. Alzheimer’s Australia, but would also be I am also most impressed with the team John Watkins has established well-known to members here in NSW — a great credit to John, Peter Baume and the Board. as an Ambassador for AlzNSW and as a I am embarrassed to say that I discovered my poor awareness of the member of our Advisory Committee. extent of the challenge in helping people who live with dementia in NSW She is a vocal and tireless advocate for and beyond. The combination of our relatively modest coverage and the people with dementia and we are very ageing population makes the growth in demand that we face, quite simply, pleased she has been so honoured. very daunting. Ita has helped raise awareness of In listening to John and his team, I am heartened in the belief that the the issues facing people living with chosen strategy can be successful. dementia, their carers and families to an That is, we will push the peak body quality boundaries so that we have unprecedented level. This has helped the the expert capacity to enable the development of a sufficient number of organisation achieve historic changes in well-trained counsellors and educators to meet this growing demand. dementia policy, including the designation I envision us as a relatively small, highly qualified group focused of dementia as Australia’s ninth National on ensuring maximum awareness in the community, maximising our Health Priority Area. independent funding sources, and staffed by high-quality personnel I have passed on our congratulations who deliver services and build programs and products for those many on members’ behalf and we look forward organisations providing support to carers and those living with dementia. to a very busy year as Ita continues To this end, we need wide community engagement, not only to help to advocate for us and raise important raise awareness and deliver training, but also to test constantly the issues, such as the lack of investment relevance and effectiveness of our work. in dementia research. I am delighted to be a member of the AlzNSW team and look forward We are also pleased to welcome our to working with the Board, management and community in encouraging new Chair Jerry Ellis AO, who has settled governments to allocate more resources to research the causes and into his new role quickly and is very keen possible cures, while doing everything we can to help those living with to learn about the organisation and the dementia have the best quality of life possible. issues facing our members. I would also like to offer my warm and sincere congratulations to Jerry has already visited our Port Alzheimer’s Australia’s National President Ita Buttrose, who has been Macquarie office to meet staff and named Australian of the Year. This is a wonderful recognition of Ita’s clients, and he speaks very highly of our many achievements and we are so pleased she is part of the Alzheimer’s people and our work. I know that he will Australia team. be a strong asset to our organisation.

Jerry Ellis AO, Chair, AlzNSW The Hon. John Watkins, CEO, AlzNSW

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HUNTER DEMENTIA CAFES BARBECUE People with dementia and carers meet monthly throughout the state to share information and ideas. Bookings are essential.

TORONTO When: Fourth Thursday of the month 10-noon Where: Toronto Workers Club YASS VALLEY Contact: Clare Coyle When: Third Monday of the month T: (02) 4962 7000 10-noon Where: Rollonin Cafe, Bowning The team from our Hunter NELSON BAY Contact: Robyn Rutherford office held their best-ever When: Second Thursday of the month T: (02) 6241 0881 fundraising barbecue over 9.30-11am the Christmas break. Where: Little Nel Cafe at The Nelson Resort SUTHERLAND Staff and volunteers Contact: Miriam Low When: Fourth Tuesday of the month helped raised more than T: (02) 4962 7000 9.30-11am $1100 in an awesome effort. Where: Camellia Gardens Teahouse Thanks to the team and WARNERS BAY Tea Room to Bunnings Kotara for the When: First Wednesday of the month Contact: Julie Sinnis opportunity to raise funds 10-11.30am T: 0418 815 041 and awareness. Where: Warners at the Bay Contact: Bev Watson ST GEORGE COUNSELLING T: (02) 4962 7000 A culturally and linguistically diverse program. VIA SKYPE When: Third Tuesday of the month BATEMAN’S BAY 10-11.30am The AlzNSW free When: First Wednesday of the month Where: Salt ‘n’ Pepper Cafe Brasserie, counselling service is now 10.30am-12pm Beverley Park Golf Club being offered via Skype Where: Bateman’s Bay Community Centre Contact: Julie Sinnis online video calling. Contact: Gaye Finch T: 0418 815 041 AlzNSW offers free face- T: (02) 4474 3843 to-face counselling for people COFFS HARBOUR with dementia, their families MERIMBULA When: Third Wednesday of the month and friends at our North When: Second Tuesday of the month 10-11.30am Ryde, Hunter, Liverpool, Mt 10-11.30am Where: Shearwater Restaurant, The Druitt, Coffs Harbour, Wagga Where: Club Sapphire Merimbula Promenade, 321 Harbour Drive Wagga and Orange offices. Contact: Samantha Joyce Contact: Marg Coutts For those not able to T: (02) 6492 6158 T: (02) 6651 7101 attend any of our offices in person, telephone counselling is available, and YOUNGER ONSET DEMENTIA REPORT RELEASED now Skype will further New research commissioned by the “People with YOD are often still working extend our reach into NSW State Government has outlined and caring for dependent children, and remote and regional areas the enormous differences in the needs many are planning for a retirement they of the state. of people with younger onset dementia will never experience,” John said. For more information (YOD) compared with those with “It is important that the different needs or to book a Skype dementia who are older than 65. of people with YOD are recognised and counselling session, phone Ageing, Disability and Home Care that service providers work to meet the National Dementia engaged AlzNSW, which partnered those needs.” Helpline: 1800 100 500. with the University of NSW’s Social It is estimated that in NSW there are Policy Research Centre (SPRC) and approximately 8000 people under the age JACK LAMONT UnitingCare Ageing to research the of 65 who have dementia. Jack Lamont, long-time support needed in NSW by people with People with YOD need easy access to volunteer and member YOD and their families. information relevant to their life stage. of the AlzNSW Speaker’s Service and Support Requirements of “Families need to make immediate Group, passed away in People with Younger Onset Dementia and adjustments after diagnoses to secure December. Jack cared their Families, released December 2012 by their wellbeing,” SPRC’s Associate for his wife Daphne, the NSW Minister for Ageing and Disability Professor Karen Fisher said. who had dementia, and Services, The Hon. Andrew Constance “Coordinating information and support became a very active MP, looks at the specialist needs of through organisations like Alzheimer’s volunteer with AlzNSW non-Aboriginal people aged 65 years and Australia was a relief to those people who to help other carers. younger, and Aboriginal people aged 50 had found that resources were scarce.” We are very grateful years and younger who have dementia. for the work Jack has The CEO of AlzNSW, The Hon. John A full copy of the report is available on done and pass on our Watkins, said the report will help service the ADHC website. W: adhc.nsw.gov. sympathies to his family. providers develop targeted and relevant au/__data/assets/file/0010/262396/ services for people with YOD. YOD_Report_WEB_2012.pdf

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InTouch_ALZ17_Autumn_2013.indd 4 27/02/13 3:45 PM WALK THE WALK NEW STAFF We welcome back Katy Following the Fitzgerald, who has returned success of last year’s Memory to AlzNSW as a Group Work Walk & Jog, Facilitator Early Intervention, we’re aiming for and introduce new staff who $500,000 in 2013. have joined us: • Rachel Peek: Corporate Partnerships and Events manager • Kiri Pedersen: Fundraising Events Assistant • Nina Catalano: Group Work Facilitator Early Intervention • Katie McGrath: Group Work Facilitator Early Intervention • Teresa Cane: Administration and Community Liaison Officer Mid North Coast • Maree Flemming: Administration The 2013 Memory Walk & Jog events will be even bigger than last year Assistant Hunter because AlzNSW aims to raise $500,000. Registrations are now open for: • Andrew Austin: Education • Sydney: Sunday 5 May at Leichhardt Oval #3 in Lilyfield Team Leader • Hunter: Sunday 8 September at Speers Point Park in Lake Macquarie • Libby Palmer: Educator • Illawarra: Sunday 13 October at Stuart Park in North Wollongong • Janna Taylor: Educator.

We are proud to launch three initiatives to take the events to the next level. DEMENTIA • The new Corporate Team Challenge will allow three participants from any CARE organisation to compete as a team in the 7.5 km run. Individual finishing times will be combined in a team time, with winners announced at day’s end. COURSE FOR • A new Memory Walk & Jog Facebook page with all the latest news, event ABORIGINAL information, hints and tips, fundraising leader-boards, race results, personal HEALTH stories and fun facts will spread the word further than before. WORKERS • Updated layout and functionality of our website to allow users to enter the race, create their own fundraising page, sponsor a friend or manage AlzNSW has delivered accredited dementia education a team. for Aboriginal health staff in We are again grateful for enthusiastic support from Bupa aged care in 2013. the Illawarra and Shoalhaven. After consultation with Aboriginal Health Service staff, training in a culturally AlzNSW ON TWEED appropriate context was recognised as an important COUNCIL COMMITTEE way to increase dementia awareness among local As part of AlzNSW’s ongoing effort to awareness of the issues faced by people Aboriginal people. increase dementia services and ensure living with dementia, their carers, families Fifteen staff participated in equity of access to them in the Tweed Shire, and friends. the five-day course. AlzNSW Project Officer Chris Vannucci has accepted The Equal Access Advisory Committee is anticipates delivering the an appointment to the Tweed Shire Council’s appointed to advise Tweed Shire Council of course elsewhere the state. Equal Access Advisory Committee. community and organisational perspectives With 22% of its population aged over 65 about access issues. – a figure set to increase to 25% by 2031 Membership includes eight community – and being part of the electorate with the representatives, including people with highest prevalence of dementia in NSW, disabilities, carers and/or representatives Tweed Shire has an obvious need for a of peak organisations, plus a Councillor and quality dementia care sector. senior Council officer. Since early 2011, AlzNSW’s Dementia The Equal Access Advisory Committee was Sector Development project has worked considered the most relevant to the aged with a growing network to improve the care, community and dementia sectors, and Aboriginal Health staff (left to right) coordination and integration of dementia Chris will use this opportunity to represent Beverley Crowther, Joy Steep, support services. the sector, raise specific issues and develop Shane Venables and Kay Stewart. Chris Vannucci’s position on the closer links to the wider community during completed the AlzNSW accredited Committee will further help raise the four-year term of her appointment. dementia education course.

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FINANCE IN LIFE AFTER AGED CARE The decision to move a loved one into aged care can be difficult. To talk LICENCES GRANT through the various issues involved The local Life after Licences team on the mid-north coast, comprised of in this decision, you can call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 representatives from Community Care Options, Community Transport, 100 500. A step-by-step approach can AlzNSW and an occupational therapist, has recently received an NRMA result in a good financial outcome Community Grant. for the carer and the person with The Grant will go towards developing materials and running workshops dementia. This could include: assisting people through the process of driving retirement. Giving up 1. A Centrelink assessment of current driving can be an emotional or difficult experience. Although it is virtually financial position. This may affect the fees charged by the aged care facility. inevitable that everyone will need to give up driving as they age, it should 2. An assessment of eligibility for not mean the end of leading a fulfilling and meaningful life. entrance to an aged care facility by The workshops will outline warning signs that people may need to the Aged Care Assessment Team, heed to give up driving, activities that seniors can undertake to safely which is funded by the government. extend their driving life as they age, tips on starting conversations with 3. An assessment of the cost of a people who may need to give up driving, and how to access support residential aged care facility. The Federal Government provides some and transport alternatives if you or a loved one has to cease driving. funding, and those who can afford to The first workshop will be held in Coffs Harbour in March, with more contribute to their care do so. following in Bellingen in April and Nambucca Heads in May. 4. Consider Social Security implications. A move into an aged care facility may For more information, contact Marg Coutts. affect entitlements 5. Consider tax implications, particularly E: [email protected] in relation to the principle place T: (02) 6651 6415 of residence of the person with dementia as well as the carer. 6. Consider estate implications. NEW COFFS MEMORY VAN Some of these considerations can be quite complex. The costs of HARBOUR OFFICE ROAD TRIP accommodation bonds and charges, daily fees, daily income-tested fees, The Coffs Harbour AlzNSW office has a new The Memory Vans and extra services fees require careful location in Lyster Street. AlzNSW staff continue to are hitting the road in consideration. Strategies can be share the office with Carers NSW, which has been March, tripping around beneficial to both staff and carers seeking support northern NSW with the implemented to reduce the impact of and advice. support of the Aussie some of these charges and fees. The Coffs Harbour office has a Dementia Advisor Farmers Foundation A financial planner with experience who provides information, support, counselling and to raise awareness of and expertise in aged care can assist referrals for people with dementia and their families, the importance of brain with these considerations, particularly friends and carers on the Coffs coast, and a Dementia health and dementia in relation to the various costs and Educator who covers the North Coast region. risk reduction. charges in residential care and the The new office is at 2/2 Lyster Street, Coffs You can visit the van strategies that can be implemented to Harbour, next door to Australian Hearing. and find out about brain reduce some of these costs. To contact the Coffs Harbour office, call Judy or Marg. health at the following Phillip Cormack FNIA; SF Fin, T: (02) 6651 7101 destinations during March: Financial Planning Specialist • Gloucester: 11 March Authorised Representative • Walcha: 12 March Godfrey Pembroke Limited • Glen Innes: 13 March T: 02 9231 5611 • Tenterfield: 14 March E: [email protected] • Bonalbo and Lismore: Phillip Cormack is a Financial Planning Specialist with Godfrey Pembroke Limited. Phillip has had a long 15 March association with AlzNSW as a voluntary member of its • Murwillumbah and Investment Advisory Committee. The views expressed in this column are those solely of the author. Readers should Byron Bay: 16 March consider their own personal situation before seeking • Grafton: 18 March financial planning advice. Any advice in this communication has been prepared without taking account of your • Coffs Harbour: 19 March objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of this you • Nambucca and should, before acting on any advice, consider whether it is appropriate to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Kempsey: 20 March Godfrey Pembroke Limited ABN 23 002 336 254, registered • Port Macquarie: office 105 - 153 Miller Street North Sydney NSW 2060, is an 21 March Australian Financial Services Licensee and member of the National Australia Bank group of companies. From time to • Forster: 22 March time Godfrey Pembroke, members of the National Australia Bank group of companies, associated employees or agents may have an interest in or receive pecuniary and non For more information, pecuniary benefits from the financial products and services contact Clare Coyle. mentioned herein. Marg Coutts and Judy Bartholomew in the new Coffs Harbour office. T: (02) 4962 7000

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InTouch_ALZ17_Autumn_2013.indd 6 27/02/13 3:45 PM Alzheimers 87 x 125mm 2013 0212 OL.pdf 1 12/02/2013 12:32:35 PM

LIFE AFTER VALENTINE’S DAY ACTION LICENCES GRANT

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Hundreds of people in NSW shared their favourite memories on Valentine’s Day to help call for investment in dementia research. AlzNSW staff and volunteers hit the streets on 14 February asking members of the public to plant memories that will last a lifetime, in support of a call for $200 million to be directed to dementia research over the next fi ve years. The event showcased a six-foot memory tree that came to life as people customised leaves with their favourite memories. Alzheimer’s Australia’s National President and 2013 Australian of the Year Ita Buttrose said the event was about raising awareness of the need for a much greater investment in dementia research. “Research into the causes and treatments for dementia, and better care for people living with the condition, are grossly underfunded,” Ms Buttrose said. “Australia has some of the world’s leading dementia researchers, but the sector lacks

the capacity of long-established health research areas, so vital ® research into new treatments and interventions is falling behind. “An investment of $200 million over fi ve years is the only way Australia will have a chance at working towards a world without dementia.” Peace of mind for medicines! In 2012-13, the National Health and Medical Research Medication Reminders Council allocated $21.5 million for dementia research, Automatic Pill Dispensers compared with $162.4 million for cancer research, $93.6 Vibrating Reminder Watches million for cardiovascular disease research, $63 million for Vibrating Clocks diabetes research and $55.1 million for mental health research.

· To learn more about the Fight Dementia campaign visit www.campaign.fi ghtdementia.org.au · For a copy of Alzheimer’s Australia’s pre-budget submission visit www.fi ghtdementia.org.au · ‘Like’ the Fight Dementia Facebook page at www.facebook.com/fi ghtdementia

MEN’S BRAINS MATTER Contact TabTimer™ and help AlzNSW Dementia Advisor Verity Jackson, who supports to keep medicines on-time. people living in the Cooma-Monaro, Snowy River and Bombala shires, was guest speaker at the recent Snowy River Men’s Group’s annual four-wheel-drive trip into the high country in www.TabTimer.com.au Kosciuszko National Park. Verity delivered a ‘Your Brain Matters’ presentation to more 1300 TAB TIMER (1300 822 846) For terms and conditions of sale see www.TabTimer.com.au . TabTimer™, ‘helps keep medications on time’™ than 50 men to raise awareness of how to maintain brain and the TabTimer™ logo are trademarks of TabTimer Pty Ltd © 2011 ABN: 99 137 415 948 health. Other presenters on the day included ambulance offi cers, police and the Rural Fire Service.

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ITA BUTTROSE: AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR

WINNERITA BUTTROSE, ALZHEIMER’S AUSTRALIA NATIONAL PRESIDENT, WAS NAMED AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR FOR HER WORK IN THE MEDIA AND AS A CHAMPION OF MEDICAL CAUSES.

lzheimer’s Australia’s National The CEO of AlzNSW, The Hon. John Watkins, said President has been named that joining such luminaries is a very well-deserved the 2013 Australian of honour for Ita. the Year. Ita Buttrose was “We are thrilled that Ita has been recognised so honoured in recognition of her appropriately for all she has done,” John said. “Ita has groundbreaking media career not only had a trailblazing media career, she has done an and the commitment she has enormous amount in the health and charity sector. made to championing medical “Ita has had a long association with us here at AlzNSW education and health care. as a member of our Advisory Council, a group of eminent “The men and women we supporters who kindly give their time and expertise to honour are our tall poppies, advise the organisation across a range of strategic issues. who have grown high in achievement and stature,” said Prime “Ita has also been an Ambassador for AlzNSW since AMinister Julia Gillard at the presentation. September 2010. Since taking on the role of President of “Through the Australian of the Year Awards, we don’t cut Alzheimer’s Australia, Ita’s leadership in the organisation’s them down, we lift them up, honouring in them all that is Fight Dementia Campaign contributed to the April 2012 best about our nation, our values and ourselves.” announcement of the ‘Living Longer. Living Better’ aged Ita is the first female to be named Australian of the Year care reform package by the Prime Minister Julia Gillard since Dr Fiona Wood was honoured in 2005, and joins the and the Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mark ranks of Dr Wood, plastic surgeon, ‘spray-on skin’ pioneer and Butler, and to dementia being named a National Health one of the main figures in disaster management following Priority Area.” the 2002 Bali bombings; Australian test cricket captains Ita has great compassion and dedication to the cause. Allan Border, Steve Waugh and Mark Taylor; Australia’s “Ita is a very worthy recipient of such an honour,” John first Indigenous senator Neville Bonner; opthamologist and said. “On behalf of all our members and people living with humanitarian Professor Fred Hollows; scientist and author dementia across NSW, I would like to congratulate Ita and Professor Tim Flannery; and winners of the Nobel Prize for thank her for ongoing commitment and devotion to Medicine, Professor Peter Doherty and Sir John Eccles. our organisation.” W

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As well as working in the spotlight to garner support for dementia research and care, Ita hits to street to talk to the public at AlzNSW events.

1976 1981 1942 Refused a bank loan despite being Becomes Editor-in-Chief of the Daily Born in Sydney’s Potts Point. one of the highest-paid women in and Sunday Telegraphs — first woman Australian media. to edit an Australian metro newspaper.

1949 1975 1980s Returns from New York, where her Becomes Editor of Women’s Weekly, Chairs the National Advisory father, former Daily Mirror editor which achieves the world’s highest Committee on HIV/AIDS, becoming Charles Buttrose, had been working. circulation per capita. the public face of AIDS education.

1957 1972 Leaves school to start working as a Cleo launches under Ita’s editorship, 1989 ‘copy girl’, aged 15, on The Australian when “women had to drink in a Launches Ita magazine. Women’s Weekly. separate area to men in a bar!”

1959 1966 2011 Covers the Australian tour of Princess Wins a ticket to the 1967 World After several years of involvement in Alexandra as a cadet, aged 17, for Expo in Montreal, prompting Alzheimer’s Australia, Ita becomes the Daily and Sunday Telegraphs. several years living overseas. National President.

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InTouch_ALZ17_Autumn_2013.indd 10 27/02/13 3:46 PM EDUCATION COURSES THE AlzNSW EDUCATION PROGRAM OFFERS COURSES FOR CARE WORKERS, FAMILY CARERS AND VOLUNTEERS.

SUPPORT GROUP CARE WORKER COURSES FAMILY CARER EDUCATION LEADERS’ WORKSHOP Person-Centred Care and Three-day carer course Introduction to Group Communicating with a Person Sylvania 20 and 27 Mar, 3 April Work Leadership Living with Dementia Camden 8, 15 and 22 April Coffs Harbour 25 and 26 March North Ryde 15 April Queanbeyan 3 and 4 June Sons & Daughters, Family & Friends Unlocking the Silent Prison – Using North Ryde 23 April Advanced Group Leadership visual cues to communicate with North Ryde 6 and 7 May persons with dementia Four-evening carer course North Ryde 18 April North Ryde 7, 14, 21 and 28 May Loss and Grief in a Carer Sylvania 13, 20 and 27 May, Support Group Elder Abuse and Dementia 3 June Coffs Harbour 20 and 21 May North Ryde 1 May Mt Druitt 8 and 9 July Living with Dementia Experiencing Dementia Forster 16 May Group Leaders’ Forum (for current, North Ryde 29 May experienced group leaders) VOLUNTEER COURSES Queanbeyan 9 April Palliative Care and Dementia for AINs Volunteer Education Mt Druitt 22 April North Ryde 20 June Coffs Harbour 23 April North Ryde 17 June North Ryde 24 April Meaningful Engagement in Port Macquarie 29 April For additional locations, more information Leisure Activities Banora Point 19 June or to register, contact Monica Cole. North Ryde 25 June E: groupdevelopmentnsw@ PHYSICAL DISABILITY alzheimers.org.au Palliative Care AND DEMENTIA T: (02) 8875 4682 Forster 18 April Wollongong April Armidale May CARER EDUCATION VOLUNTEER EDUCATION Central Coast June Family carers and friends are invited to If you are a volunteer supporting people attend a free course conducted by AlzNSW who are frail, aged or living with dementia Dates and locations may be subject to (excludes professional health care workers). you are invited to attend free interactive alteration. Fees apply for some courses. Workshops will be held in various locations. workshops in various locations. For more information or to register: E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] T: (02) 8875 4640 T: (02) 8875 4640 T: (02) 8875 4640 or (02) 8875 4651

WORKSHOP UNLOCKING THE SILENT PRISON: USING VISUAL CUES TO COMMUNICATE WITH PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA

AlzNSW is running a workshop to The workshop will be presented by For more information, visit the help professionals and family carers Professor Michelle Bourgeois from the Fight Dementia website. communicate more effectively with Department of Speech and Hearing W: fightdementia.org.au/new-south- people with dementia. Strategies Science at Ohio State University. wales/education--training-in-nsw.aspx using written and graphic cues will be described, including the use of memory When: 18 April, 9.30am – 4.00pm To register, download and complete a wallets, memory books, and reminder Where: North Ryde RSL Community Club, registration form, and email or fax it back. cards to modify problem behaviours cnr Magdala and Pittwater Rds, North Ryde E: [email protected] and to maintain conversation skills. Cost: $150 F: (02) 8875 4665

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InTouch_ALZ17_Autumn_2013.indd 11 27/02/13 3:46 PM RESEARCH RECENT STUDIES THE NEED FOR DEMENTIA-SPECIFIC TRAINING FOR HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS, AND GREATER FOCUS ON THE USE OF ANAESTHETICS AND BENZODIAZEPINES IN OLDER PEOPLE.

DEMENTIA-SPECIFIC TRAINING New Australian research from the Dementia Collaborative Research Centre – Carers and Consumers suggests that understanding of dementia among health care staff could be improved, particularly in relation to medical aspects such as risk reduction and the course of the disease. “The study clearly showed that those who had had dementia-specific training had better knowledge and understanding,” says study author Dr Elaine Fielding. “Our primary recommendation is making dementia- specific training a component of clinical practice.” Read more: goo.gl/R9wGO

ANAESTHESIA RISK Research led by Associate Professor David Scott from St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne has found healthy over-50s over the next three- The results emphasise the that older people who already have and-a-half years. importance of monitoring the use of mild cognitive impairment before “Our research aims to detect the anxiety and sleep treatments, says anaesthesia are more likely than earliest possible signs of dementia in UK Alzheimer’s Society Director of others to suffer increased cognitive otherwise healthy people even before Research Professor Clive Ballard. dysfunction after surgery. significant symptoms are noticed,” Read more: goo.gl/pHLdD More worryingly, some of these said project leader Associate Professor people do not return to their presurgery David Darby. BRAIN HEALTH STUDY level of cognitive function. If you are aged over 50 and healthy, Researchers from Alzheimer’s Australia “Patients with post-operative cognitive you can volunteer. and the Australian National University are dysfunction may experience a longer Find out more: tread.florey.edu.au working together to assess Australians’ stay in hospital, have a reduced quality commitment to improving brain health. of life and even have an increased BENZODIAZEPINES “The particular focus is on lifestyle mortality,” says Dr Scott. “We need to be AND DEMENTIA choices that impact the health of the able to identify patients susceptible to Recently published results of a 15- brain,” says project leader Dr postoperative cognitive dysfunction and year French study have found a 50 per Maree Farrow. modify how we treat them.” cent increase in the risk of developing The team is looking for participants who: dementia with prolonged use of • are over 18 EARLY DETECTION benzodiazepines in older people. • can read and write English More than 10,000 Australians are Benzodiazepines are commonly used • have daily access to email and internet participating in a study led by the to treat anxiety, insomnia, agitation • have a smartphone or tablet Florey Institute of Neuroscience and and, less commonly, seizures, muscle • undertake moderate physical exercise Mental Health in Melbourne. The spasms and alcohol withdrawal. Previous • can commit to four weeks of regular Trajectory-Related Early Alzheimer’s studies focusing on a link between participation and three surveys over Database (TREAD) project will assess dementia and benzodiazepine use have four months the memory and cognitive function of had conflicting results. Find out more: brainhealthstudy.org.au

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InTouch_ALZ17_Autumn_2013.indd 12 27/02/13 3:46 PM SERVICES 10 WAYS ALZNSW CAN HELP Q&A Q WE HAD CHRISTMAS WITH ALZNSW IS HERE TO SUPPORT MY GRANDFATHER WHO HAS PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA, DEMENTIA. UNUSUALLY FOR HIM, HE WAS VERY THEIR FAMILIES AND CARERS. WITHDRAWN AND GOT UPSET LET US COUNT THE WAYS! OFTEN. WHAT IS HAPPENING? A Every person’s experience of dementia Support at time of diagnosis helps you and your family to make sense is unique. Difficulties communicating 1 of the diagnosis and the next steps. thoughts and feelings are common, especially around Christmas. To make Practical advice helps you minimise the impact of dementia. 2 things easier for you and your grandfather, Living with Memory Loss programs for people in early-stage dementia contact a counsellor on the National 3 increase knowledge and confidence for managing memory loss. Dementia Helpline: 1800 100 500. 4 Individual and family consultations help you plan for the future.

5 Education programs help you understand and live well with dementia. Q MUM HAS ALZHEIMER’S AND LIVES INTERSTATE. Handy3161s.eps

Up-to-date information and resources about dementia and access to WHAT SHOULD I DO? 15C 6 the members’ lending library keeps you and your family informed. A Dementia does not automatically mean Connections with other people living with dementia enable you to 7 that a person cannot care for themselves. share information and experiences. Helping your mum stay for as long as Social and creative activities provide opportunities for possible in the familiar surrounds of her 8 meaningful participation. home is the ultimate goal. To support her independence, access our Helpsheets 9 Recommendations and advice about dementia support services in at www.fightdementia.org.au or call the your area ensure suitable care. National Dementia Helpline: 1800 100 500. The counsellor that you speak with can give 10 Our provision of information to GPs and other health care providers you a number to call to talk with someone

helps them improve their care and support for you. in the state your mother is living.

S D I K D E H C R A E S E R

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C R A F O A D A L I H C N Q Courses and special Q AlzNSW campaigns alzheimers.org.au E

events increase rally the public and F E N O N L A

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knowledge about lobby the government

D E K E D E T C E F F A N dementia risk reduction to improve dementia U

and treatments. funding and care. 16 PAGE CROSSWORD

TAPThe Tailored Activity Program We are currently recruiting for participants

This study being run from the University of Sydney is a trial to test a program aimed at improving the quality of life of people with dementia by providing meaningful activities tailored to their abilities. For more information, please contact: Tara-Lea McAleer Tel: (02) 9351 9594 or Email: [email protected]

Sydney Uni advert_Tailored Activity Program.indd 1 2/7/2013 12:23:51 PM

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InTouch_ALZ17_Autumn_2013.indd 13 27/02/13 3:46 PM FUNDRAISING LIFE SUPPORT DONATE, BEQUEATH A GIFT IN YOUR WILL OR FUNDRAISE THROUGH ACTIVITIES. NO MATTER HOW YOU DO IT, SUPPORTING ALZNSW FINANCIALLY WILL HELP THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE.

BEQUESTS service where friends and family can much-needed funds for Alzheimer’s As our population ages, we need to make a donation to AlzNSW. Australia. Bring it to the table will be extend our services to meet growing A receipt will be sent to the donor launched in April with events throughout demand. Leaving AlzNSW a gift in your and, with their permission, a letter will June. If you would like to know more will can give us the long-term financial be sent to the family to advise them about this great fundraising initiative confidence to maintain and extend our of the kind gift. The amount of the gift please contact Donor & Community vital support services, continue to educate will remain confidential and gifts $2 and Development Executive Megan Thomas. carers and health professionals, and invest higher are tax-deductible. E: [email protected] in research to stop this deadly disease. T: (02) 8875 4673 T: (02) 8875 4625 Make a will or update your existing will E: [email protected] and include a bequest to AlzNSW. COMMUNITY FUNDRAISING You should always seek the services of SEND US YOUR STORY Planning a fundraiser in your local a solicitor or trustee company to prepare Some members help our fundraising and community or workplace? We are your will to ensure that it is correctly awareness-raising efforts by sharing their revitalising our community fundraising drafted and is practical in meeting your stories of dementia, whether funny, tragic, program and are looking for support from wishes.To find out more about how you empowering, uplifting, inspirational or sad. passionate fundraisers. We can guide can help AlzNSW by leaving a gift in your If you would like to help our fundraising and support you in preparation for your will, contact Diana Waring. and awareness-raising efforts by telling event, from morning teas to gala balls. T: (02) 8875 4631 your story, please contact Karen. T: 02 8875 4625 E: [email protected] T: 1300 636 679 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] IN MEMORIAM DONATION By making a donation in memory of BRING IT TO THE TABLE STAY IN TOUCH a loved one, you ensure his or her We are bringing the fight against If you are not already on our email memory lives on by helping others. dementia to the nation’s tables with a database and would like updates You can also celebrate the life of a get-together with a difference. about all the news on our upcoming loved one by asking for a donation to Members of the community, carers and events, please contact Megan. AlzNSW in lieu of flowers. supporters will host events, such as high T: (02) 8875 4625 In memoriam envelopes can be made teas or board-game dinners, and raise the E: [email protected] available at a funeral, church, wake or conversation about dementia while raising

DEMENTIA AND DRIVING RESEARCH AlzNSW is participating in a dementia and driving project If you would like to learn more about joining this study with the University of Wollongong and the Illawarra please contact Dr John Carmody MRCPI FRACP, Staff Shoalhaven Local Health District. Specialist Neurologist, Wollongong Hospital. If you have dementia and drive a car, researchers at E: [email protected] the University of Wollongong would like to invite you to T: (02) 4253 4430 or 0427 468 544 participate in a telephone survey. Post: Neurology Department, All participants will be mailed a free information booklet on Level 4, Block C, driving and dementia. The aim of the study is to seek your Wollongong Hospital, feedback on this booklet. Wollongong NSW 2500

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InTouch_ALZ17_Autumn_2013.indd 14 27/02/13 3:46 PM IN MEMORIAM

WE OFFER OUR CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILIES WHO HAVE LOST THEIR LOVED ONES. WE ALSO THANK THEIR FRIENDS AND FAMILIES WHO HAVE DONATED TO ALZHEIMER’S AUSTRALIA NSW.

William ‘Bill’ Adamson James Arthur Holdaway Joseph Sciberras Angela Amendolia Doris Jean Irvine (nee Lane) Barbara June Severn Anthony Arapidis Luis Itzcovich Beryl Skyes John Balikouras Peter Jenkins Gladys Slater Hilda May Beaumont Mary Johnson Oliver Alfred Smart Wilbur Nash Bedford Neville Johnson Zvonko ‘Sam’ Sostaric Nola Grace Bennett Norma Joan Jordan Irene Barbara Spence Ailsa Brady Aina Maude King Kellett (Tommie) Stuart Staziker George Lawrence ‘Lawrie’ Bretnall Arthur Kurtis Max Edward Tapply Alice Ellen Brooks Antonio Leva Ida Taylor Marjorie Burns Norma Ellen Lewis Andrew Theos Ann Carol Carlisle Yvonne ‘Bonnie’ Lickerman James Harold ‘Jim’ Trimble John Chamberlain Edward St. Anslem ‘Eamon’/’Ted’ Lucey Nicholas Tsoukalas Ross Craig John William Macris Joy Vinson Patricia Joan Cristini (nee Cummings) Sonia Maghrahi Harold Ronald Volk Michael Crowley Graham Henry Neill Martin Thomas Wade Joe Cunningham Alexander John Mathieson Theresa Wainwright Alison Dalby Norman Thomas Matthews Stephanie Sybil Joy Waley John Desmond Dart Margaret Constance McIntyre Valerie Walker Laurie Davey Jean Kathleen McMaster Edith Watters William ‘Bill’ Davies Peter Robert Mead Janet Galbraith Webster (nee Constantine Drakos George Michael McCleary) Valerie Dumbrell Patricia Marion Milgrove Norman Charles Westbury John Eaton Florence Gertrude ‘Flo’ Miller Irene Phyllis Wheeler Margaret Ann ‘Maggie’ Eaton (formerly Sevester) Ernest Kelvin Whitfield Patricia Joan Edgington Arthur George Mison Allan Williams Heather Ellen Margaret Emery Leonard Morgan Betty Jean Yabsley Ronald Charles ‘Ron’ Evans Sante Murer Fay Evans Gaetano Natoli Alzheimer’s Australia would like to Betty Evans Bartolo Natoli acknowledge and thank the families Theresa Farrujia Antonia Nesci and executors of recently received Ian Gray Fell Eva Margaret Noble bequests from which people with Francis Patrick ‘Frank’ Fitzsimmons Richard Llewellyn Parker dementia, carers and their families William Charles Leonard Fletcher Marianna Passafaro have received lasting benefit. Josephine Flynn Edward Charles ‘Ted’ Pearce Benjamin Francis-Jones Robert Allan Pennock Gordon ‘Mick’ Freeman Rion Edward Phipps Emily Ruth Gallard Enny ‘Anne’ Raaymakers (nee Perery) Hazel Jean Gerrard Nellie Rae Antony Rodwell Green Maria Rapisarda Richard Hammond Carmela Raso Peter Stott Harrison Alfred Oliver Reardon Elizabeth Hatzimihalakis Wendy Ruth ap Rees (nee Holroyde) Margaret ‘Peggy’ Hedges Robert Reid Jean Murial Hewitt The Hon. Joseph Martin Riordan AO June Higgs Wilfred Harper ‘Bill’ Roberts Muriel May Hill (nee Strathen) Antonina Salvagio Eva ‘Eve’ Himes Desa Sardelic

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InTouch_ALZ17_Autumn_2013.indd 15 28/02/13 11:47 AM RESOURCES ALZNSW LIBRARY LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICES COORDINATOR MICHELLE DE MARI REVIEWS THE NEW ADDITIONS TO THE ALZNSW LIBRARY.

JOURNAL CROSSWORD

Counsellors and Psychotherapists Association of NSW Journal 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Issue 4: Dealing with Dementia 9

Several articles in this journal were written by AlzNSW staff, including 10 11 ‘Supporting people with younger onset dementia and their families’ by Kylie Sait and Lyndell Huskins, ‘Counselling the carer’ by Helen Carswell and ‘Working with dementia: the counselling needs of professional carers’ by 12 13 14 Georgene McNeil. 15 Other articles in this issue include ‘Conversations: Sinking slowly into 16 17 18 19 the darkness of dementia – an interview of Noel Hackett’ by Roberta SOLUTION PAGE 13 PAGE SOLUTION Parrott, ‘Hearing the voices of dementia: A person-centred approach’ by 20 21 22 Kirstin Robertson-Gillam and ‘Persons with dementia from other cultural

backgrounds and their carers’ by Lee-Fay Low. 23 24 25 26

27 BOOKS Learned optimism: How to change your mind and your life 28 29 30 By Martin E.P. Seligman PhD Offering many simple techniques, Dr Seligman explains how to experience 31 32 the benefi ts of a more positive interior dialogue. These skills can help fi ght depression, boost the immune system, better develop potential and make ACROSS DOWN you happier. Learned optimism is both profound and practical, and valuable 1. Unchanged 1. Alien spacecraft for every phase of life 6. Scraped (out a living) (1,1,2) 10. French heroine, 2. Battery size (1,1,1) Leisure in later life Joan ... (2,3) 3. Common-law By Michael J. Leitner and Sara F. Leitner 11. Tortilla with spouse, de ... This book covers topics such as senior day care centres, recreation in chilli sauce 4. Plainly facilities, nursing homes, leadership principles, program evaluation, leisure 12. Found repugnant 5. Puts into cipher counselling, intergenerational activities, exercise, dance, sexuality, global 14. Potter’s turning device 7. Rogue 16. Truth 8. Lethal quality perspectives and leisure in later life. 18. Biblical wise judge 9. Petroleum pits (3,5) 20. Experienced 13. Trademark Playfulness and dementia: A practical guide person (3,4) 15. Witch’s transport By John Killick 22. Scoundrels 17. Passive John Killick explores the nature of playfulness and the many ways in which 23. Barely suffi cient 19. Implied it can enrich the lives of people with dementia. Specifi c approaches already 25. Change premises 21. Made to last in existence are described, and personal accounts of playfulness offer fi rst- 28. Securely fi xed 22. Alleviate hand insights into its transformative potential. 29. Zigzag (through 24. Intended The importance of spontaneity and being in the present moment with traffi c) 26. Cringe the person with dementia is emphasised, and the reader is encouraged 31. Young children 27. Family war to develop a playful mindset. 32. Investigated 30. Cigar dust

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