Timely assessments for specialist dementia care across Australia

Caring for people with dementia can be difficult. Behavioral changes are common, with up to 95% of people with dementia experiencing them. These can include episodes of significant agitation or aggression which can be very difficult to manage.

The complexity and severity of these behaviors means some Australians with dementia cannot be cared for in mainstream nursing homes and need more support.

What to do when extra help is needed

Specialized dementia care programs (SDCP) are eight-bed specialist care units tailored to the needs of people with severe behaviors and psychological symptoms of dementia. SDCPs have a focus on reducing or stabilizing behaviors over time, with the ultimate goal of returning the person with dementia to traditional residential care. In 2023, ten new Specialized Dementia Care Programs (SDCPs) are expected to open in aged care facilities in New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, South Australia, Australia. Western Australia and Tasmania, alongside the nine units already in operation. .

SDCPs are a service without borders – you do not need to reside in a particular local health district or primary health network to be eligible for placement. The nearest SDP is Sir Moses Montefiore Jewish Home, Randwick Montefiore Home, which is scheduled to open in July 2023.

How does my patient or resident access a bed in a SDCP?

Eligibility assessment for specialist care units is carried out by Dementia Support AustraliaThe team of highly trained dementia consultants who work with the person with complex behaviors and their caregivers to understand the frequency, severity and impact of what is happening. These assessments are the pathway that helps SDCP providers make decisions about placement within their units if they meet the eligibility criteria. The DSA determines eligibility and the SDCP determines suitability for placement within their unit.

With more units going online, this creates more placement options, which is great news for helping people with complex behaviors and dementia. Want to know more – our Dementia Support Australia team would like to discuss the program referral and eligibility determination process with you. Our goal is to help elder care providers improve the quality of life of people with dementia when their behavior impacts their care. Contact us today to learn more or get help.