TWO Boandik Lodge employees are among just a handful of Limestone Coast residents to have completed a Bachelor in Dementia Care.
Theresa Connor and Merrilyn McGregor studied six years part time to gain the degree through the University of Tasmania, heightening the aged care facility’s focus on being a regional leader in dementia care.
Now working in a full time role working as Boandik’s dementia specialist, Ms Connor said she looked forward to further developing the organisation’s philosophy and resources surrounding the neurological condition.
“With a diagnosis of dementia life does change, but it does not mean you still cannot have a quality life,” Ms Connor said.
“Boandik has specialised dementia resources and facilities to meet the needs of residents and I aim to build upon relationships and services to create meaningful engagement, further mentoring Boandik dementia champions on staff and provide greater support to families adjusting to dementia of a loved one.”
The Dementia Care Program is Australia’s first degree specifically focused on dementia.
With the rise in prevalence in dementia and the need to provide quality care in the community, health care centres and hospitals and in residential care, the program aims to help health care workers develop specialised knowledge to make a difference to the lives of people living with dementia.
