Support for older people to plan transport under CDC

A new resource developed by Alzheimer’s Australia NSW is encouraging consumers to consider the role of transport when making decisions about self-directed care packages.

The information booklet, Planning for Transport in Self-Directed Care, along with the accompanying one-page information sheet, sets out transport options available for people with dementia and aims to help people to understand the value of transport in staying connected and socially engaged.

Research funded by the NSW Department of Family and Community Services into dementia and transport, carried out by Alzheimer’s Australia NSW, found that many people were unaware of the move towards individual funding and self-directed care and didn’t understand how to plan for and make choices about service options, including transport, under this new model.

Alzheimer’s Australia NSW CEO John Watkins said the new resources were a reminder for people not to overlook transport when making decisions about care.

“People tend to think about personal care and domestic care that can help them, but we don’t want them to forget the benefits they’ll get from transport, especially in the early stages of dementia. Transport is particularly important in maintaining social connections.

Mr Watkins said the information would help equip people with dementia to make more informed choices and use their package funding wisely.

For a copy of Planning for Transport in Self-Directed Care phone the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 or visit fightdementia.org.au.

To subscribe to CCR please visit http://www.australianageingagenda.com.au/subscribe-to-ccr/