We fund Dementia Australia’s Dementia Care Navigator program to help people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds navigate the health system and access the right support services whilst seeking a dementia diagnosis or following a diagnosis. Western Sydney is home to over a million people, 53% of whom were born overseas, and 58% of whom speak a language other than English at home. The Dementia Care Navigator team provide information on how to connect to support for those living with dementia, their carers and family members.
With estimates that more than 400,000 Australians are living with dementia, and two-thirds of those living in community, it is crucial that people have access to free navigation tools to get the support they deserve. The Dementia Care Navigator service is free and available to people at all stages of a dementia journey living in Western Sydney. Between July 2022 and June 2023, the Dementia Care Navigator team provided individual support sessions to 871 people and group sessions for 388 attendees.
Each Dementia Care Navigator takes a consumer-centred approach to ensuring continuity of care for patients across the stages of dementia. By imparting knowledge, skills, and interventions to increase dementia and health literacy for clients and the sector as a whole, the navigators encourage self-management and respect to maximise wellbeing and positive outcomes.
What Support is Provided?
- Information sessions to help navigate My Aged Care, National Disability Insurance Scheme and other services
- Ongoing one-on-one support in person, via phone and online
- Advice on what services to choose and how to engage with providers
- Access to translated resources and interpretation services
Useful Resources
Dementia Australia offers a wide range of resources for health professionals and community members.
- Dementia Australia pack for GPs: This free printed kit includes information on services and resources, the BrainTrack app for early diagnosis and a script pad for direct referrals
- Dementia Guide: Comprehensive guide about the impact of dementia, planning for the future and caring for those with a diagnosis
- Dementia Help Sheets: Covering topics such as younger onset dementia, caring for carers, building a dementia-friendly environment and supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients
How to Refer
To refer patients or their carers, please complete the form on the Dementia Australia website.
You can also direct patients to call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, or, for language assistance, they can call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450.
Information correct as of 19 September 2023.