New way to maintain Indigenous dementia patients’ connection to country

Image:Photo courtesy of Dementia Support Australia

Dementia Support Australia has produced a set of picture cards aimed to support First Nations People experiencing dementia symptoms, specifically the loss of speech. The new initiative was created in collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait, including artist, and proud Dagoman woman, Samantha Campbell. Dementia is a significant health risk amongst  Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, with rates ‘among the highest in the world’ according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report Dementia in Australia. The loss of connection to country that many First Nations People suffering from dementia experience is an issue these cards aim to combat. 

To access a free online copy of the picture cards head to https://dementia.com.au/resources/news/picture-cards-for-first-nations-people-with-dementia-recognised-by-prestigious-award.html

Produced By: Isabella Michie

Featured In Story: Associate Professor Colm Cunningham, Director of the Dementia Centre at HammondCare

First aired on The Wire, Tuesday 30 November 2021