"Dear Dr Macfarlane, my question to you is: I am thinking about attending a Staying at Home program and wondered if medical specialists are involved."
Thanks, Grace, for your great question
Staying at Home programs are run over three days and two nights in a ‘residential retreat’ format for both people living with dementia and their family carers. They provide a valuable opportunity for carers to learn more about dementia and how to manage certain behavioural changes that may arise during the illness.
We understand that many patients and carers have limited opportunities to ask medical specialists important questions about dementia. This might be because their diagnosing doctor is no longer involved in their care, or the cost associated with appointments that enable such discussions might not be manageable. or their general practitioner may not have the expertise to provide in-depth answers.
To address this, the Staying At Home program includes a dedicated session where participants can speak with an independent medical specialist from Dementia Support Australia (DSA). During this session—which I like to call “Everything You Wanted to Know About Dementia But Were Afraid to Ask Your Doctor”—a DSA medical specialist joins the program in person or via video link. They offer one-on-one discussions tailored to participants’ concerns, covering topics such as medical issues, medication, and treatment or support options. And there is no time limit!
These one-on-one interactions are highly valued by participants, offering them practical advice and clarity on medical aspects of dementia care.
If you would like to ask Steve a question, please send to dsanews@dementia.com.au