Council, in partnership with Holstep Health (formerly Merri Health), is launching a pilot program to introduce Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) to the local community.
With an aging population in Nillumbik, dementia has emerged as a growing health challenge, impacting many local families.
Mayor John Dumaresq said Council is committed via its Health and Wellbeing Plan to work with the Nillumbik Dementia Alliance to support those living with dementia and their carers.
"We recognised the need for more local support," Cr Dumaresq said.
"We hope this pilot will be the start of a long-lasting partnership with Holstep Health to address the impacts of dementia and that individuals with dementia and their families will benefit from a local and affordable option to support cognition, independence, and wellbeing."
The program, which kicks off in July, consists of 14 sessions across seven weeks (two sessions per week) and is facilitated by a Diversional Therapist and Council staff.
CST is a unique, well-established psychological therapy program for people with dementia. It is an evidence-based program that is stimulating, enjoyable, and cost-effective.
Despite its proven success in the UK particularly, CST is not widely available in Australia. This pilot program is an important step in making CST more accessible to people with dementia in Nillumbik.
Originally devised from research into effective dementia care, CST was evaluated in a study with participants reporting an increased quality of life, improved memory, and enhanced cognitive abilities.1
While CST has many clinical benefits, its social impact is just as significant, providing a fun, engaging and supportive environment for participants.
Who can participate?
Nillumbik residents with mild to moderate dementia.
What participants say
From a client: "It helped me with loneliness and getting out of home. It's like going to a club with friends... I look forward to coming every week."
From a carer: "I see him coming out of the group every week with a big smile - it's obvious he loves it."
Program details
This free seven-week program will run every Tuesday and Thursday.
Tuesday 22 July – Thursday 4 September, 9.30am – 10.30am.
Diamond Valley Library, 34 Civic Drive, Greensborough.
