Join us for a free CPD-accredited evening exploring the latest developments in dementia care, with a focus on practical support.
Join us at Harrup Park for an informative and engaging evening. Suitable for all health professionals including doctors, paramedics, nurses, occupational therapists, social workers and allied health professionals.
Hear from a geriatrician, Dementia Australia and specialist Dementia Respite services on:
- Early identification and screening for cognitive change and MCI
- New and emerging treatments, plus post-diagnostic support pathways
- Technology and social prescribing to strengthen outcomes and connection
- Culturally responsive care for priority populations.
Discover how CatholicCare’s Dementia Together program is reimagining dementia care and providing essential evidence-based care to our most vulnerable populations.
A little about our program
Eligibility
Participants must be:
- a person with a confirmed dementia diagnosis, or currently working toward a diagnosis, and
- a carer (or carers) supporting the person living with dementia
Program overview
Educational Retreats
- Three-day local retreats held at a hotel or motel (two full days and a half day).
- Delivered by a multidisciplinary team including case managers, a dementia advisor, a clinical nurse, and trained support workers.
- Participants receive education about dementia, future planning, and practical tools for daily living.
- Carers receive tailored guidance to support their loved one live well and safely at home.
- Meaningful respite activities, catering, and social engagement are provided.
- Supports are developed through an in-depth care plan and a personalised “My Journey” diary.
- Retreats are grounded in evidence, clinical practice and lived experience.
- Accommodation may be accessed if needed.
Short courses
- We are aiming to provide multiple short courses through 2026 and beyond, for those who may not be able to attend our retreats. These short courses are typically spread over 1-2 days with our dementia advisor and guest speakers, much like the Retreat format, we provide group respite services for those living with dementia.
- Our Short Course program is going to take place in more regional areas, as well as Mackay. This is to bridge the gap for those who cannot make the drive to Mackay and make our program much more accessible. We are hoping to make our way to Longreach, Emerald, Blackwater etc. through the year, depending on expressions of interest in these areas.
Personalised and flexible respite
- Available to participants of the program.
- The in-home respite services may vary in duration from 3-4 hours per week to overnight stays and possibly ’emergency’ respite (within 5 business days) when available eventually.
- Delivered collaboratively and does not replace existing provider supports, but rather works to supplement support to the person living with dementia and their carer.
- Focused on maintaining goals, interests, and community engagement.
- Care plans are reviewed and adjusted as needed.
- Follow-up occurs every three weeks for up to six months, with additional education provided where required.
Dementia Together Program services also include community nursing for people living with dementia whose clinical condition has changed and support for carers to access free and subsidised counselling at CatholicCare CQ.
Funding
The program is fully federally funded and covers:
- Retreat education sessions, activities, and materials.
- Accommodation, catering, and (where applicable) travel.
- Short-term in-home respite services.
We believe this program offers a valuable opportunity for our organisation to collaborate with our partners in the community to support people living with dementia and their carers to better understand the condition, live well and remain at home safely.