Voices in DREAM

Did you know that in December 2024 the Australian Government launched a 10-year National Dementia Action Plan? This isn’t just a policy document, it’s a roadmap for improving diagnosis, care, support, research, and community understanding for people living with dementia and their carers.In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Yashi sits down with Distinguished Professor Emeritus James Vickers, Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, to unpack what’s new, why it’s so important, and how it could change the landscape of dementia care in Australia.Tune in to learn about:The purpose and vision of the National Dementia Action Plan 2024-2034The 8 high-level actions in the Plan and what they mean in practiceHow the Plan addresses stigma, equity, and human rightsThe role of workforce development and building capability in care servicesHow research and data will drive innovation and better policyWhat it means for people living with dementia, their families, and carersHow progress will be measured over the next decadeIf you work in aged care, health, research, or support someone with dementia, this episode matters.

Did you know that LGBTQ+ inclusive care isn’t just a nice-to-have, but a vital part of effective dementia services? Providing care that is affirming and respectful of sexuality, gender identity and gender expression, and understand and meets the needs of each person, improves comfort, trust, emotional wellbeing, and care outcomes for people living with dementia and their families.In this episode Pauline Crameri, coordinator of Val’s LGBTI Ageing & Aged Care, and Yashi explore what inclusive LGBTQ+ dementia care might look like. They discuss a range of aspects that may be experienced by LGBTQ+ people living with dementia and why understanding identity, history, lived experiences, and cultural safety makes a difference and how care providers can best support LGBTQ+ Australians living with dementia.Tune in to learn about:·         The key components of LGBTQ+ inclusive dementia care·         Why identity, respect, and psychological safety matter in aged care settings·         Common challenges LGBTQ+ older people face when accessing care·         Strategies to build trust and create safe, welcoming environments·         Practical tips for support workers and care teams·         How inclusive care benefits individuals, families, and the broader communityIf you work in aged care or support an LGBTQ+ older person, this episode is a must-listen. Suggested reading: Protecting the dignity of older LGBTQ+ Australians, Australian Ageing Agenda. We Are Still Gay: An evidence-based resource exploring the experiences and needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans Australians living with dementia (also available in the DREAM Resource Library) 

Did you know that access to nature isn’t just nice to have but is vital for all people, especially for those living with dementia? Nature can reduce agitation, improve mood, and encourage movement.   In this episode, Dr Pauline Marsh, Senior Lecturer in Dementia Studies, and Yashi discuss how outdoor design can creates therapeutic, dementia-friendly spaces.  Tune in to learn about·         The healing benefits of nature for people with dementia ·         Features of outdoor environments that have therapeutic impact for people living with dementia·         Designing safe and accessible outdoor spaces ·         Encouraging activity and social connection outdoors ·         Cultural and seasonal considerations in outdoor design  If you work in aged care, respite, or support someone living with dementia, this episode will give you fresh inspiration and practical ideas. Here you can find links to training, and general information about the Venture Out Living lab and Nature Hubs project. https://ventureout.dementia.utas.edu.au/  Recruiting people living in Tasmania for our research! If you live with dementia, or are a care-partner, and you love being in nature please get in touch: [email protected] you have a story to tell about connecting to nature, you might like to contribute to our sister project, the Nature Connection Storytelling Project: https://thenatureconnectionproject.com.au/

Did you know palliative care isn’t just for the final days of life? For people living with dementia, it plays a vital role throughout the condition, supporting comfort, dignity, communication, and quality of life.In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Yashi and Tiffany, an experienced nurse from Palliative Care Victoria, explore how dementia and palliative care are closely connected. We discuss when decision-making becomes difficult, how families cope when their loved one loses capacity, and the emotional stress and guilt that come with tough choices. We also look at how the aged care workforce can support families, guide conversations, and ensure care stays focused on what matters most to the person.Tune in to learn about:What palliative care really means in the context of dementiaWhy dementia is recognised as a life-limiting conditionThe emotional experience of families when making difficult decisionsHow care teams can support families through grief, guilt, and uncertaintyWhy early conversations create better outcomes for everyoneIf you work in aged care or support someone living with dementia, this episode is a must-listen. 

Did you know that many families don’t realise when palliative care begins for a loved one with dementia? Yet early, compassionate conversations can bring comfort, clarity, and peace to everyone involved.In this episode, Yashi, and Tiffany, an experienced Nurse from Palliative Care Victoria, explore how dementia and palliative care pathways connect, and how aged care workers, nurses, and support staff can better guide families through this emotional stage.Tune in to learn about:How dementia progresses over time and why palliative care is an important part of supporting people living with dementia and their families.How and when to start conversations about palliative care in dementia, including ways to approach these discussions with sensitivity and clarity.The role of empathy, honest communication, and shared understanding in helping families navigate difficult decisions and future care planning.How a palliative approach can support dignity, comfort, and meaningful connection throughout the different stages of dementia.Whether you work in aged care, respite, or support someone living with dementia, this heartfelt conversation offers warmth, understanding, and practical guidance.

Did you know that color and contrast can make or break how safe and welcoming a care environment feels? For people with dementia, high-contrast design supports depth perception, safety, and orientation.  In this episode, Dr Sun and Yashi explore how the thoughtful use of colour can transform dementia care spaces. Tune in to learn about·         Why contrast matters for people living with dementia  ·         Using colors to signal safety, comfort, and familiarity  ·         Practical examples from real care homes  ·         How small design tweaks can reduce falls and anxiety    If you work in aged care, respite, or support someone living with dementia, this episode will give you fresh inspiration and practical ideas.  Dr Joanna Sun is an environmental gerontologist and lecturer at the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre. She leads the DESIGN Project (Design and Dementia Global Knowledge Translation) and has over two decades of experience in design and dementia care across Singapore and Australia. Her work focuses on creating enabling, inclusive environments and understanding how culture, policy, and the built and natural environment shape dementia care. Dr Sun co-developed the Singapore Environmental Assessment Tool (SEAT), contributes to the global Dignity Manifesto of Design, and was recognised as a 2024 Fellow of the Australian Association of Gerontology. 

Did you know that tailored care approaches in residential care homes can significantly improve the quality of life for people living with dementia? When care teams understand their unique needs and preferences, residents feel safer, more engaged, and more respected.In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Annie shares her experience of working in dementia respite care. She talks about how she builds therapeutic relationships with people living with dementia and their families, and what has worked for her in practice.Please note that every person receiving respite care and type of services or care provided by every organisation is different. Services have their own policies and ways of working, so approaches to care can vary. The strategies shared in this episode reflect Annie’s experience.Tune in to hear about:·       How Annie builds trust and relationships in respite care·       Communication approaches that support understanding·       Supporting meaningful engagement and connection·       Providing person-centred care that respects individual needs and preferencesThis episode highlights how strong relationships and good communication can support positive experiences in respite care.

Did you know that a residential care home doesn’t have to feel institutional? Personal touches, familiar objects, and warm design can be used to transform rooms into comforting spaces that support memory and dignity.  In this episode, Dr Jo Sun and Yashi discuss the importance of creating personalised, familiar, and dementia-friendly spaces in aged care facilities.Tune in to learn about: ·         Why personalisation reduces anxiety and supports memory ·         Simple, affordable changes families and teams can make ·         Balancing safety with familiarity in design ·         How personal spaces strengthen identity and belonging  Dr Joanna Sun is an environmental gerontologist and lecturer at the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre. She leads the Design and Dementia Global Knowledge Translation (DESIGN) Project and has over two decades of experience across Singapore and Australia in design, aged care, and dementia care. Her work focuses on enabling environments, cultural influences in dementia care, and knowledge translation. Dr Sun co-developed the Singapore Environmental Assessment Tool (SEAT) and contributes to the global Dignity Manifesto of Design for people living with dementia. In 2024, she was recognised as a Fellow of the Australian Association of Gerontology.If you work in aged care, respite, or support someone living with dementia, this episode will give you fresh inspiration and practical ideas.   

Did you know that music has the power to awaken memories, reduce anxiety, and create meaningful moments for people living with dementia? Music therapy isn’t just entertainment; it’s a proven approach that improves well-being and strengthens relationships between individuals, families, and care providers.In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Dr. Brendan Lamb, a lecturer in Creative Arts and Health, and Yashi dive into the role of music therapy in dementia care. They explore how rhythm, melody, and familiar songs can reach parts of the brain untouched by dementia and why this therapeutic tool is so powerful in respite settings.Tune in to learn about:How music therapy supports memory, mood, and communicationWhy music is uniquely effective for people living with dementiaPractical strategies for integrating music into respite and aged care servicesReal-life examples of how music brings joy and connectionTips for families and care workers to use music meaningfully at home and in careIf you work in aged care, respite, or support someone living with dementia, this episode will give you fresh inspiration and practical ideas. Dr Brendan Lamb is a graduate from the University of Tasmania’s Conservatorium, having completed a PhD in Musicology, an Honours degree in Music Performance and a Grad Dip in Musicology. He has had more than 10 years of teaching experience coordinating, lecturing and tutoring for Creative Arts and Health, Music Theory and Sociohistorical context. His PhD thesis, ‘Old and New: How the Irish Folk Music Revival of the twentieth century revitalised and modified Irish music’, focused on the musical and cultural impact of the Irish folk music revival on Irish traditional music and the significance of key performers and ensembles in the progress of the Irish music tradition. His research interests include creative arts and neuroscience, Irish traditional music, jazz performance and history and ludo musicology. He has also published in Musicology Australia researching the use of music and varying stylistic elements to reinforce place and period in fantasy video games, and also Irish folk music of the mid-twentieth century.  

Did you know that supporting someone to do things for themselves instead of doing it for them can boost their confidence, maintain dignity, and improve their overall wellbeing? That’s the power of reablement.In this episode, Dr Claire O’Connor joins Yashi to explore how reablement supports older adults to maintain or regain their independence through meaningful, everyday tasks.Dr Claire O'Connor is a Senior Research Fellow in the School of Psychology, UNSW, a Conjoint Senior Research Fellow with NeuRA, Honorary Senior Research Fellow with HammondCare, and is also a registered occupational therapist. Claire leads a program of research focused on the translation and implementation of non-pharmacological interventions to improve dementia practice, focusing on reablement/rehabilitation, and maximising functioning, engagement and wellbeing in people living with dementia and their informal supporters. Combining her clinical training in occupational therapy and research skills, Claire is passionate about contributing to research that is meaningful to ageing populations and people impacted by dementia.Tune in to learn about:What reablement really means and how it differs from traditional careWhy promoting independence helps both physical and mental healthPractical, everyday strategies for carers, families, and teamsHow to balance safety, support, and autonomyThe long-term impact of reablement on confidence and quality of lifeWhether you work in aged care, home care, or support someone living with dementia or physical decline, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped.Click on the Links below to learn more about what we discussed in this episode ·         2025 World Alzheimer’s Report: https://www.alzint.org/resource/world-alzheimer-report-2025/·         Freely available evidence-informed dementia reablement resources: www.hammond.com.au/reablement  ·        DTA dementia rehabilitation e-course: https://dta.com.au/online-courses/introduction-to-dementia-rehabilitation/    

What is it really like to access overnight respite care for the first time?In this heartfelt episode of Voices in DREAM, we sit down with Sharon to hear her and her mother’s powerful story of experiencing overnight respite care for the very first time.Sharon’s mum, who was living with dementia, faced uncertainty and vulnerability during this major transition. Sharon shares her emotional journey, the fears, hopes, and lessons she and her mum both encountered.Tune in to explore:·         The emotional impact of accessing respite for the first time·         Sharon’s reflections on her mum’s experience and how care teams responded·         What made a difference and what could’ve been better·         Practical ways to support people living with dementia and their families during their first respite stay·         How we can create smoother, more supportive transitions into respite careWhether you’re a caregiver, aged care worker, or someone supporting a loved one with dementia, this episode offers invaluable insights into the real-life experience of respite and how we can do better.

Did you know that successful respite care for people living with dementia relies just as much on how we support the carers and support workers as it does on the care itself? Empowered, well-informed carers can make all the difference in creating a safe, calm, and enriching respite experience.In this episode of Voices in DREAM, we explore practical, person-centred strategies for both support workers and carers who are providing respite care for individuals living with dementia. Whether it’s preparing for a respite stay or responding to changes in behaviour, this episode offers helpful tips grounded in real-life care scenarios.Tune in to learn about:·         How to prepare for a dementia respite stay·         Communication strategies that promote trust and comfort·         Supporting carers during and after respite care·         Managing changes in routine and behaviours with empathy·         Promoting team-based care between families and support staffWhether you’re a family, carer, a community support worker, or part of an aged care team, this episode is filled with practical advice to help you deliver more successful and compassionate respite care.

Did you know that strong teamwork in aged care settings can lead to better outcomes for people living with dementia, especially during short-term respite stays? When staff support one another, care becomes more consistent, compassionate, and person-centred.In this episode of Voices in DREAM we’re joined by Emmanuel, an experienced aged care worker who shares practical strategies for building a supportive workplace culture. Together, we explore how collaboration, open communication, and simple daily actions between staff can make a powerful difference in the lives of residents and in the wellbeing of care teams.Tune in to learn about:The importance of workplace culture in dementia careHow to communicate effectively across shifts and rolesBuilding trust and psychological safety among team membersManaging stress and preventing burnout togetherDaily habits that help teams feel more connected and capableIf you work in residential aged care or support people living with dementia during respite stays, this episode is full of practical insights to help your team deliver the best care together.

Did you know that dementia care in respite settings requires a unique approach to help both the person living with dementia and their caregivers adjust, feel safe, and thrive during short stays? In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Michelle, a Dementia Nurse Consultant, shares her expert insights on how dementia care in respite settings differs from long-term care. She explains the challenges, the importance of quick trust-building, and how respite care not only supports people living with dementia but also provides crucial relief to their families.Tune in to learn about:The unique challenges of dementia care in respite settingsHow care teams adapt to short-term staysThe role of families in making respite successfulEmotional and medical support strategies during respiteAdvice for carers hesitant about using respite careIf you’re supporting someone with dementia or a caregiver in your life, this episode is made for you. 

Did you know that just a few days of respite care can help family caregivers feel more rested, less stressed, and more connected to the people they’re caring for?In this episode of Voices in DREAM Sharon shares her personal story of caring for her mum, Janet, who lived with vascular dementia. From the early signs and diagnosis to discovering respite care and the real impact it had on both their lives. This episode dives deep into how taking a break can truly make a difference.Tune in to hear about:The challenges Sharon faced as a carerHow she found and accessed respite careThe surprising ways respite helped both her and her mumAdvice for carers who feel guilty about taking time offIf you’re caring for someone or supporting a carer, this episode is for you. 

Did you know that thoughtfully designed environments can reduce anxiety, improve safety, and support independence for people living with dementia - especially in short-term respite care settings.In today’s episode of Voices in DREAM, Yashi welcomes Bridgette, an advocate for dementia friendly environmental design. Bridgette shares practical insights on how small but meaningful environmental changes in respite care can create calm, connection, and dignity for residents living with dementia.In today’s episode Bridgette and Yashi talk about:What makes a dementia-friendly environment in respite and residential careHow the environment impacts residents’ mood, orientation, and safetyThe important role of support workers in shaping and keeping dementia-friendly spacesPractical tips for small changes that make a big differenceEmphasis on creating calm, consistent, and familiar surroundingsReflection on how environmental design complements compassionate care

Did you know that support workers play a key role not just in providing care, but in helping residents living with dementia stay socially connected through shared activities. With the right support, these moments of connection can boost confidence, reduce isolation, and bring real joy to daily life. Listen now to John’s inspiring story, full of practical ideas and activities you can use or encourage in your aged care setting to help residents connect with others living with dementia. Hear firsthand what it’s like to live in a supportive community and take part in meaningful activities alongside residents and their partners.  In our final episode with John, he provides:·    Insight into the role of support workers, from his perspective ·    His experience of care and community support ·    Thoughts on the importance of person-centred care and teamwork in dementia support ·    Tips on overcoming challenges with empathy and communication ·    The impact of positive, joyful environments on wellbeing Listen now for insights on how care staff empower residents every day. 

Did you know that support workers are often the quiet heroes behind positive dementia care, helping residents feel safe, understood, and truly connected to their community.In today’s episode of Voices in DREAM, we meet Sarah, a passionate and experienced support worker who plays a vital role in both respite and residential dementia care. From tailored activities to team collaboration and deep empathy, Sarah brings heart and purpose to everything she does.Sarah shares how understanding each resident as an individual helps build trust, comfort, and joy. You’ll hear how teamwork, communication, and small daily actions can make a big difference to wellbeing both for those living with dementia and the staff supporting them.In this episode, Sarah and Yashi discuss: • Sarah's role and passion for dementia care • Why personalised care matters in dementia settings • How teamwork supports residents and families • The importance of social connections and meaningful engagement • Practical tips for support workers: empathy, observation, and patience • How support workers create a sense of belonging and purpose

Did you know that meaningful activities and social connections are essential for people living with dementia. They help support independence, boost mood, and reduce feelings of isolation. Support workers play a crucial role in creating these opportunities every day. Yashi speaks with John again today, and continues his inspiring story full of practical ideas and activities you can use in your aged care setting to help residents connect with their fellow residents living with dementia. Hear firsthand what it’s like to live in a supportive community and take part in meaningful activities alongside people living with dementia and their family. In this episode you will: ·         Discover the types of activities residents enjoy and how these support people living with dementia. ·         Learn about the vital role support workers play in organising and encouraging participation in activities. ·         Explore practical tips for fostering social connection between residents. ·         Understand why social connection is key to wellbeing and happiness. ·         Hear some tips for support workers and family members on enhancing engagement and connection. ·         Reflect on ways to foster meaningful activities in your own care setting this week. 

Did you know that community respite care is essential for supporting the wellbeing of people living with dementia by helping them stay connected, engaged, and comfortable during short stays away from home?In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Emmanuel, an experienced support worker in community respite, shares practical insights on providing effective dementia support. He discusses what quality community respite care looks like, how support workers can better assist people living with dementia, and the value of strong support networks within the aged care workforce.Tune in to learn about:·         What community respite care really means and why it matters·         How support workers can enhance care for people living with dementia during respite·         The role of support workers’ networks in improving respite care quality·         Key considerations for caring during respite periodsIf you’re a support worker, caregiver, or community member committed to compassionate dementia care, including during respite stay, this episode is for you.

Did you know that many residents living independently in retirement communities actively support their neighbours with dementia? Building friendships, sharing knowledge, and creating joyful connections every day.   Listen now to John’s inspiring story, full of practical ideas and activities you can use or encourage in your aged care setting to help residents connect with others living with dementia. Hear firsthand what it’s like to live in a supportive community and take part in meaningful activities alongside residents and their partners. Join Yashi and John as they continue their conversation about living and learning together in a supportive retirement community.In this episode Meet John, a long-term resident of The Landings in Sydney, who has spent over a decade supporting neighbours living with dementia.Hear how John and a small group of residents deepened their understanding through the Wicking Dementia Centre education courses.Learn how his involvement in DREAM provided practical tools and confidence to support others.Discover how community programs and dementia-friendly initiatives foster health, engagement, and social connection.See how small acts of kindness and lifelong learning help build a caring, inclusive community.Be inspired by John’s insights and advice for supporting people living with dementia in retirement and aged care settings.

Did you know that meaningful activities aren’t just fun—they can bring comfort, confidence, and connection to people living with dementia, especially in respite care settings where time is short, but impact can be deep.In today’s episode of Voices in DREAM, we’re joined by Sarah, an experienced support worker in respite care, who shares how activities play a vital role in creating joyful, person-centred experiences for residents. From teamwork with activity coordinators to creative, simple ways to build connection, Sarah talks about what really works in short-stay care. Her stories offer practical advice and heartfelt insight for support workers, families, and care teams alike.In this episode, Yashi and Sarah discuss: • Why activities matter, even during short stays • Types of engaging and dementia-friendly activities • How teamwork with activity coordinators enhances care • The positive impact on mood, connection, and family trust • Tips for tailoring activities in fast-paced care environments 

Did you know that many people living independently alongside friends with dementia find that they can play a role in creating a welcoming, connected community.Over four episodes you will meet John, an inspiring 89-year-old resident of The Landings in Sydney who has turned community care into a way of life. After completing the Understanding Dementia and Preventing Dementia MOOCs, John now leads by example, creating connections and promoting dementia-friendly activities through LDK’s Supported Lifestyle Program. Listen now to John’s inspiring story, full of practical ideas and activities you can use or encourage in your aged care setting to help residents connect with others living with dementia. Hear firsthand what it’s like to live in a supportive community and take part in meaningful activities alongside residents and their partners.In this episode John and Yashi talk about:Life in a shared community with people living with dementiaJohn’s experience of engagement and supporting neighboursThe vital role of support workers in daily life and activitiesImportance of social connections and meaningful activities for wellbeingEncouragement to foster community and inclusion

Did you know that in some cultures, dementia is seen as a spiritual issue, or that language barriers and stigma can delay diagnosis and support?If you're an aged care worker, this episode is for you. Because understanding culture isn't just a "nice to have" it's essential to delivering safe, respectful, and person-centred dementia care. Join host Yashi and Phoebe, a Care Manager and Dementia Lead, as they unpack the cultural beliefs and barriers that aged care workers face daily and share practical tips to help you provide more respectful, person-centred, and culturally sensitive care. In this eye-opening episode of Voices in DREAM we explore how culture shapes the understanding of dementia and impacts the delivery of care in aged care settings, both in home care settings and residential care homes. Whether you’re a frontline care worker, nurse, or manager, this episode offers essential insights to help you better support older person from diverse backgrounds.

What if I told you that one word, just one, could either uplift or isolate someone living with dementia? The language we use shapes how we think and how others feel.That one word could be: “Still”, “Yet”, “Stillness”, “enough” etcOne word used with care can change how we see, treat, and connect with someone living with dementia. Choosing uplifting, respectful, person-first language helps build a more compassionate, inclusive world.In this episode of Voices in DREAM, we explore how respectful, inclusive, and empowering language can reduce stigma and promote dignity for people living with dementia. Based on the Dementia Language Guidelines developed by Dementia Australia, this 10-minute episode is a must-listen for carers, professionals, advocates, and anyone who wants to better understand how to talk about dementia with compassion and clarity.

In this episode of Voices in DREAM, we explore the reality that dementia is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Join Yashi and Dementia Nurse Consultant Michelle Clarke as they break down the different types of dementia, how symptoms can vary, and why aged care workers need to tailor their communication and care to each individual.Whether you're new to aged care or a seasoned professional, this episode offers practical insights to improve your confidence, compassion, and care approach.What to Expect in this Episode:An overview of the main types of dementia commonly encountered in aged careHow symptoms differ across various dementia typesThe impact of different symptoms on communication and behaviourPractical strategies for adapting care approaches to each dementia typeThe importance of person-centred care tailored to individual needsInsights from Michelle, an experienced dementia nurse consultantTips to help aged care workers build empathy, confidence, and better connections

Are you supporting someone living with dementia in a respite care setting?Whether you're new to the role or have years of experience, this episode is your go-to guide (or a helpful refresher) on the dementia basics that matter most in short-stay care.Join your host Yashi as she walks you through:·   Care strategies that make respite easier·   Practical care tips tailored for respite care·   Managing changing behaviours with calmness and empathy·   Simple ways to support brain health in everyday routinesListen now on wherever you get your podcasts and feel more confident supporting people living with dementia during their respite stay.Resources & Links:Alzheimer's Association | Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia HelpDementia information for nurses and their patients | Dementia AustraliaAbout Wicking Dementia Centre - Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre | University of TasmaniaNationwide, 24-hour dementia carer support | Dementia Support Australia

Did you know that over 57 million people worldwide are living with dementia today?If you supporting someone living with dementia — in a home, respite, or aged care setting, then this episode is your go-to introduction (or refresher!) on dementia. Join your host Yashi as she walks you through key aspects of dementia. Whether you're just starting out in aged care or have years of experience, this episode offers valuable knowledge to help you provide confident, compassionate support.In this episode, you'll learn about:·       What dementia is.·       Common symptoms.·       What treatment looks like.·       And our care goalsListen now on whatever podcast app you have and take the next step in your dementia care journey!

“If you are someone supporting people living with dementia at home, in the community or at a residential care facility and struggle to navigate changing behaviours, then you are not alone. And you don’t have to do it alone.”This week on Voices in DREAM, we’re diving into the DREAM program a powerful, practical resource created to help aged care workers like you feel more confident and supported when supporting people living with dementia, especially in respite settings.Join host Yashi and Dr. Kathleen Doherty from the Wicking Dementia Centre as they explore real stories, real learning, and the vision behind DREAM.Episode summary In this episode, Yashi and Dr. Kathleen Doherty discuss the challenges and opportunities of supporting people living with dementia and how education and mentoring can better equip carers.·       Learn about the rising numbers of people living with dementia in Australia and the growing need for skilled support.·       Discover the work of the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, including how it empowers carers through accessible education.·       Explore the DREAM Program, designed to build the confidence and capabilities of those supporting people living with dementia, especially during respite care.·       Understand why respite care matters or both the person living with dementia and their caregivers.·       Hear about the Equip Aged Care Learning initiative, which provides free, practical training to aged care workers across the country.·       Get insight into the vision behind the Voices in DREAM podcast, why it was created, and who it’s for.Listen now on wherever you get your podcasts from.

Introducing “Voices in DREAM (Dementia Respite Education and Mentoring)” - supporting you to support people living with dementia.Are you an aged care worker supporting people with dementia during permanent or respite care? Then welcome to Voices in DREAM - connecting you to the aged care workforce to support you to support people living with dementia. This podcast is for you.Each episode, we share practical tips, real stories, and compassionate strategies to help you provide person-centred and culturally safe care that truly makes a difference.I'm Yashi (BNurs(Hons), MNursPrac, PhD in Dementia Studies), your host. I'm a registered nurse, dementia researcher, and Academic Learning and Development Officer at the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania. I've worked in aged care, hospitals, and research, always with a focus on improving the care we deliver. This podcast is also a chance for me to learn from our guests and you and apply those insights in my academia and nursing practice.This podcast connects voices from across the aged care workforce, including support workers, nurses, families, and dementia coaches, to share experiences and advice for delivering the best care possible.Throughout the series, you’ll hear from a diverse range of voices, including:·       Nurses and support workers from community and aged care settings·       Dementia experts, coaches, and educators·       A resident with lived experience of living alongside people with dementia·       Real stories from the frontline of respite and aged careEach episode is packed with: ·       Practical care tips you can use right away·       Culturally safe, compassionate care strategies·       Tools to help you navigate changing behaviours·       Real-life scenarios to help you unpack challenges·       Insights into the DREAM program, designed to support aged care workers, especially during respite careWhether you’re a carer, health worker, or someone passionate about dementia care, this podcast is here to support you in making a meaningful difference.Don't forget to subscribe, follow the Wicking Dementia Centre on social media, and send in your questions. Together, we’ll learn and improve dementia care one story at a time.