Caring for carers is a top priority for the Palaszczuk Government

Dementia Awareness Month is a timely reminder of the need to support programs that care for people with dementia, and their families and carers.

The Minister for Health and Minister for Ambulance Services Cameron Dick said carers are an integral part of the Queensland health system.

“Carers are the unsung, everyday heroes of our community,” Mr Dick said.

“Respite care is an essential part of caring for people with dementia. It provides the carer with a break from their caring responsibilities and also provides valuable and meaningful activities for the person receiving care.”

Earlier this year the Palaszczuk Government delivered on an election commitment by awarding $20 million to seven community-based organisations that provide respite care for Queenslanders living with dementia or neurodegenerative conditions. 

The funding is designed to create more flexible hours for carers so that they can take time out from their caring duties.

The organisations were chosen because they have demonstrated their ability to deliver programs that are tailored to the needs of individual clients and are beyond the standard work day.

“The community organisations that are helping carers take time out from their duties are providing an amazing service and the Palaszczuk Government is only too happy to assist them in that regard. 

“The fulfilment of the election commitment is another example of Labor’s commitment to seniors and positive ageing.”

The Minister announced the funding for organisations to deliver their services from Brisbane to the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, West Moreton, Darling Downs, Wide Bay, Townsville and Cairns in May 2016.

The Palaszczuk Government is also committed to caring for people with dementia or neurodegenerative conditions with assessment, diagnosis and treatment services spread throughout the state.

The Department of Health also participates in research on the diagnosis and treatment of dementia at many hospitals.

Dementia is a collection of symptoms and signs that are caused by neurological degenerative conditions, the most common being Alzheimer’s disease. 

By 2019, there could be more than 75,000 Queenslanders living with dementia.

There is currently no cure or treatment to alter the progressive course of dementia. 

Although Dementia mainly affects elderly people, it is not a normal part of ageing and can affect anyone of any age.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:   Laura Gowdie 0413 492 117