Hornsby Shire Council invites people living with dementia and their carers to enjoy a free cruise with lunch on the Hawkesbury River, on board the Riverboat Postman, to mark Dementia Action Week on, Monday 19 September.
Dementia impacts close to half a million Australians and almost 1.6 million Australians are involved in their care. The theme for this year's Dementia Action Week, from 19 – 25 September, is 'A little support makes a big difference'. It demonstrates that many people living with dementia can continue to live well for many years after their diagnosis.
Part of Council's Hello Hornsby initiative, promoting social inclusion for seniors in the Shire, the special cruise is specifically programmed to cater for the accessibility needs of people with dementia, a group that can be under catered for.
"We know that people living with dementia don't always get the chance to have a fun day out. This Dementia Action Week, we want to 'give them a little support' to get out and about and enjoy our beautiful Bushland Shire," said Hornsby Shire Mayor Philip Ruddock.
"We also hope that this cruise 'gives a little support' to the carers who, providing some respite and the chance to chat to like minded people who share their challenges.
"Our recently endorsed Disability Inclusion Action Plan sets out to ensure that Hornsby Shire is a welcoming community whose members care for and look after each other by connecting and participating in community life. Events like these brings the plan to life, making a real impact to the people living with disability."
Council resolved to become a Dementia Friendly Community, recognising that is has an ageing community – with statistically higher population than the Sydney average in every age category over 40 years of age. Many of our older population are living with or caring for someone with dementia. Council will soon finalise its draft Healthy Ageing Strategy and will ask the community for feedback on the draft plan.
