Carers invited to Dementia-Friendly & Carer Gateway information sessions

Published: 4 February 2025

Local carers of someone living with dementia, a chronic condition, or a diagnosed disease are invited to four new Dementia-Friendly and Carer Gateway information sessions happening in March and May!

Cardinia Shire Council has partnered with Alfred Health Carers, Dementia Services Australia and Dementia Australia, to bring these sessions to our community.

This series of sessions provides crucial and valuable information to help carers better support their loved ones by addressing their own needs through a personalised approach.

Attendees will gain valuable insights, practical strategies, and a sense of community for carers and individuals living with dementia. The sessions cover:

  • Alfred Health Carers’ Carer Gateway.
  • Carer support and services.
  • Forget Me Not – dementia-friendly café social groups.
  • Carers Social Support Groups.

Come and learn, share, and connect with others who are navigating similar challenges. Bookings open now online at: www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/carersessions2025

All sessions will be held at Outlook Community Centre, 24 Toomuc Valley Rd, Pakenham, are free to attend, and will include refreshments.

Event details

Tuesday 4 March sessions

Attendees are not required to be registered with Carer Gateway to attend the March sessions.

These sessions also provide an opportunity to learn how to become a registered carer on Tuesday 4 March so that you are eligible to attend a session on Tuesday 6 May.

Session 1: Understanding Dementia - You’re Not Alone

Session 2: An Introduction to the Carer Gateway and Registration Process

  • 11am–12.30pm
  • Light lunch available 12.30–1pm

Learn what dementia looks like and how to assist those you care about. Find out about the Forget Me Not – dementia friendly cafe social groups in Cardinia Shire. Be introduced to Carer Gateway, the registration process and the many benefits of becoming a registered carer.

  • 1–2pm
  •  Afternoon tea included

The Alfred Health Carer team explains the Carer Gateway registration process and the many benefits of becoming a registered carer. Experts can connect you with a range of supports and programs tailored to your needs.

Tuesday 6 May sessions

These sessions are for those already registered with Carer Gateway and eager to learn more.

Session 1: Carer Gateway ‘101’ Learning the Basics

Session 2: Practical Matters in Dementia Care, Tips and Strategies

  • 11am–12.15pm
  • Morning tea included

Alfred Health Carers explains the services available to you as a registered member of Carer Gateway, a free service that offers a range of programs to support carers. Hear about the carers social support group which meets monthly in Pakenham.

  • 1–3pm
  • Afternoon tea included

Come and explore practical matters in dementia care, with useful tips and strategies, Q & A. Hear from carers who attend the Forget Me Not café and the Carers social support group which meets monthly in Cardinia Shire.

Cardinia Shire Council is committed to supporting our local carers and older community members. Through this partnership, we aim to provide comprehensive resources and support for carers and those affected by dementia and other chronic conditions and diagnosed diseases.

These events are part of Council’s ongoing efforts to ensure that our community members age well and receive the support they need.

For bookings and enquiries, please contact Alfred Health on 5940 4728 or complete the online booking form at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/carersessions2025

For more information about these sessions and other Ageing Well events and activities supported by Council, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/AgeingWellEvents

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