Funding boost for Specialist Dementia Centre in Wollongong

ANGLICARE Chesalon’s Day Centre in Wollongong is set to expand with a $1.65 million funding boost from the Federal and NSW Governments through the Home and Community Care (HACC) Program.

Jenny Godin, Manager of the Chesalon Day Centre, says the new funding will assist ANGLICARE to better cater for more people in the area.

“It means that we will be able to provide more for our clients and find additional places for people on our extensive waiting list,” says Mrs Godin.

“At the moment we have plans for a memory sensory garden, better kitchen access and separate recreational areas that can all assist our clients retain more of their skills for longer.

“The new centre will also mean we can cater to the needs of diverse groups who come to the centre.”

Stressing how important human touch and happiness was to the wellbeing of those living with dementia, Mrs Godin says the Chesalon program is all about making people feel good.

“We give them an opportunity to be here for the day to participate in activities and socialise. The program provides their carers with a short break from their role also.”

The Federal Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot visited the ANGLICARE Chesalon centre this week with Sharon Bird, Federal Member for Cunningham and Jennie George, Federal Member for Throsby.

Thanking ANGLICARE for their contribution to the development of the new dementia day-care centre, Mrs Elliot said that the funding is part of a $11 million plan to build, extend or renovate HACC day care centres throughout NSW.

“The rising prevalence of dementia in Australia requires a greater response from governments at all levels, and the Rudd Government is committed to doing more to support people living with dementia, as well as their families and carers,” said Mrs Elliot.

“As well as investing in the development of new dementia support centres, the Australian Government has also committed $320 million over five years for the Dementia Initiative which supports new dementia research, early intervention and support programs and training for the aged care workforce,” Mrs Elliot said.

Currently, more than 73,000 people living with dementia in NSW alone, and the number is expected to double over the next 20 years.