“So supportive in every way”: The aged care employees going above and beyond for people living with dementia

On Aged Care Employee Day (7 August), Dementia Australia acknowledged the hundreds of thousands of people working in the industry across Australia, particularly those making a difference in the lives of people living with dementia, their families and carers.

To mark the day, Dementia Australia Dementia Advocate Jason van Genderen shared with us his message to the aged care team who go above and beyond looking after his mum, Oma, the star of Oma’s Applesauce.

"Oma's cat Hailey was her constant companion,” Jason said.

"When she moved into her care community she really missed those passive comfort moments a family pet gives. Deanna and Michelle have been so supportive in every way.

“It's been a great comfort to our family to know that Oma's happiness is as important to them as it is to us. When they suggested Hailey could come visit Oma, Michelle always made time to integrate Hailey's visit into Oma's day. Then when Deanna suggested adopting Hailey, that was the icing on the cake. For them to be such strong advocates for residents' happiness is just a blessing."

In 2021, there are almost half a million Australians living with dementia, with many supported by aged care employees in residential care and in their homes through community care.

On Aged Care Employee Day, and every day, we thank and appreciate aged care staff for their professionalism, compassion, empathy and the care they provide.

Individuals and employers wishing to find out more can visit the Aged Care Employee Day website: www.agedcareday.com.au.