Information and support: Dementia workshop in the Health & Vital Center Rassach

Von WOM

In Rassach, an important information evening on dementia was recently held. In cooperation with the “Healthy Community of Stainz”, the Gesund & Vital Center, which has existed for almost a year, has created a platform that offers both relatives and affected people insights and answers to essential questions about dementia. This event was very well received and illustrated the growing interest of the community in this important topic.

representatives of nursing associations were also present at the workshop, including the home aid of the Red Cross and the Germany's care wheel. Brigitte Kürschner took over the moderation from the healthy community and Manuela Künstner from the health center, which, in addition to informative content, also enabled the exchange between those affected and nursing staff.

Understand the challenges of dementia

The topic of debates led to discussion about various challenges with which relatives are confronted. It has been addressed that many relatives, as it became clear in a personal statement, have difficulty accepting external help. This led to an emotional examination of the question of how important it is not to reject support. On this occasion, those affected found that it was difficult to find a balance and to maintain the needs of the sick towards their own. Dementia sufferers often try to cling to a familiar person, which of course is additional stressful for relatives.

The experts artists and furriers used the conversation to offer solutions and promote a change of perspective. They recommended that you keep a diary in order to better track changes in the patient's behavior. This could help to improve communication with nursing staff and to provide information about the development of the patient.

practical help and support in everyday life

Another central topic was the question of 24-hour aid. This option could be relieved for many families, especially if personal support is no longer sufficient. Artier pointed out that perseverance was necessary to ensure the best possible support. The budget for such support is around 3,000 euros per month, which is a hurdle for many families.

As part of the discussion, the problem was also mentioned that nursing staff often work under great time pressure, which makes it difficult to provide individual care. This illustrates the need to check alternative care models. The offers for palliative accompaniment in particular were an important topic that is available and can offer support.

Another important topic was the application for care allowance and how it is determined whether someone is considered neglected or not. This is important to find out correctly and to check legal steps if necessary.

The evening ended with a thank you from Kürschner and artist who appreciated the open discussion and did not exclude to plan further information events. This type of exchange is invaluable for many who are faced with dementia. Such formats not only offer necessary information, but also an opportunity to support each other and share experiences. For more information on this topic, www.meinbezirk.at .