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COVID-19: Dementia and Anxiety in Aged Care

on Tuesday, May 26, 2020

If you work in a residential aged care home or provide in-home care for a person living with dementia, you may have noticed some clients reduced understanding of, or heightened anxiety about coronavirus (COVID-19). Dementia Australia have prepared some tips to help reduce these feelings of confusion or stress for your clients. Aged Care Online and Dementia Australia have partnered to provide support to you and the wonderful work you do.

Firstly, ensure all information provided is from an authoritative source such as the Australian Government Department of Health or the World Health Organisation (WHO). You may also find it helpful to minimise the flow of media information by suggesting switching off the 24-hour news cycle on TV.

Secondly, remember to ask your clients how they are feeling and whether they have any questions. Make sure you take the time to listen to their concerns, validate their feelings, and be reassuring. It is best to avoid talking about your own anxieties or concerns regarding the situation in front of your client.

During these unprecedented times, Dementia Australia are providing information, support and resources to people living with dementia and those caring for them. This information is designed to assist you to continue providing high-quality care to people living with dementia by keeping you connected to best practice principles.

For more tips, read Dementia Australia’s Help Sheet for residential aged care.

For further advice, contact Dementia Australia’s National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.

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