A new smartphone app aims to equip aged care workers with information and advice to meet the cultural needs of people with dementia.
Cultura is an initiative of Alzheimer’s Australia SA and allows easy access to a range of resources to support the delivery of culturally appropriate care.
The app focuses on 21 different cultures, and details general information, cultural and dementia care tips, and resources covering a broad range of topics including religion, communication style, food and diet.
The tool provides information that can be used in discussion with the person with dementia and their informal carers to best determine their distinct cultural needs.
Kathryn Quintel, chief executive officer of Alzheimer’s Australia SA, said it was vital care workers and allied health staff had a thorough understanding of the support needs of older people from diverse backgrounds.
The Cultura Care Model highlights examples of best practice in the provision of person-centred dementia care.
The app was created in partnership with app development company The Distillery, following research, testing and feedback from community members and professionals.
The project was funded by an Aged Care and Service Improvement and Healthy Ageing Grant from the Department of Health.
Cultura is suitable for use on Android and iPhone mobile phones, as well as for use on tablets and computers, and is available in the App Store and on Google Play.
For more information visit the Cultura website.
