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Dementia is the term used to describe the symptoms of a large group of illnesses, which cause a progressive decline in a person’s mental functioning. It is a broad term which describes a loss of memory, intellect, rationality, social skills and normal emotional reactions.*Nationally, we have seen a massive increase in the number of individuals diagnosed with dementia. According to statistics published by Alzheimer’s Australia:
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At least 60% of people in high care facilities and 30% of people in low care facilities have dementia.
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Research shows that there are currently more than 1000 new cases of dementia diagnosed each week - that is five new Jewish cases of dementia diagnosed each week in Australia
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More than 55% of Australians currently diagnosed with early stage dementia are still being cared for in their own homes. They will need additional supported care in the future.
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More than 50% of Montefiore's current Residents are diagnosed with dementia or cognitive impairment
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An estimated 200 000 Australians currently have dementia. An estimated 52 000 are new cases, diagnosed in 2005.
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The risk of dementia increases with age. Given the ageing of Australia’s population, we can expect an increase in the numbers of people affected by dementia.
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It is projected that over 730 000 people will have dementia by the year 2050 (unless there is a medical breakthrough).
To address the massive increase in demand for Dementia-specific facilities, Montefiore has implemented its Dementia Crisis Response [hyperlinked to a page entitled Dementia Crisis Response], an integrated strategy to provide dementia-specific infrastructure and preventative research.
The Montefiore Home has taken the lead in providing special care facilities to address the specific needs of our growing number of Residents suffering from dementia or other cognitive impairment.
In accordance with leading edge research and international best practice, the Home’s advanced, moderate and mild dementia units at Randwick and Hunters Hill have been designed to support the use of smaller spaces, maintaining a friendly and protected ‘home-like’ environment.
All lounges and dining areas located within the Special Care Units are smaller and more domestic in nature. The dining areas typically accommodate around 15 Residents each, providing for higher levels of support and enhancing Resident comfort and sense of security. Activity programs are specifically designed to meet the needs of Residents in either early or late stages of dementia.
*Source: Alzheimer’s Australia
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