NEXT week the Greater Port Macquarie Dementia Friendly Community Alliance (DFCA) will hold a community seminar to explore what those living in the region can do to reduce their risk of dementia.
The DFCA is a not-for-profit organisation that is striving to ensure the Port Macquarie–Hastings region is more inclusive and supportive, for those with dementia, and their carers.
The seminar takes place on 15 September at the Westport Club. General admission tickets are $25 each.
The event is held during Dementia Awareness Month and falls just a week before Dementia Action Week from 21 to 27 September.
Leading dementia and aged care experts will gather to encourage brain health, promote awareness of modifiable risk factors associated with dementia and support people with dementia to live well.
Professor Susan Kurrle AO is the keynote speaker for the evening.
Her expertise in dementia involves rural and telehealth dementia clinics, the development of memory assessment services and leadership of a Dementia Clinical Drug Trials Unit.
She holds the Curran Chair in Health Care of Older People at the University of Sydney, and the Clinical Director of Aged Care and Rehabilitation for Northern Sydney Local Health District.
Dr Raju George will also speak at the seminar. He is a specialist in geriatric medicine with his expertise lying in dementia, fall prevention and the health challenges involved in ageing.
“It is important to help people understand that simple lifestyle changes—such as improving diet, exercising regularly and staying socially active—can help reduce dementia risk,” DFCA Vice President Karen Dubois said.
During the evening, the second edition of Unforgettable Voices will be launched. This book contains stories and poetry that capture the many experiences and perspectives of people living with dementia.
Bringing together leading experts, health professionals and those with lived experience of dementia, the evening will educate, inspire and empower members of the community to maintain cognitive wellbeing and reduce their risk of dementia.
By Shalise LEESFIELD
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