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Dementia Friendly Central Coast

Welcome to Dementia Friendly Central Coast, a heartfelt initiative by the Central Coast Council to create a warm and supportive environment for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. Guided by our collaborative Framework developed with local consultant EJ Shu, we’re embracing the Alzheimer’s Australia definition of a dementia-friendly community. Our goal is to ensure that every individual, regardless of their cognitive abilities, feels valued, respected, and included in our community. Download our Framework below to discover how you can join us on this meaningful journey.

Framework

Our Dementia-Friendly Central Coast Framework is a labour of love, reflecting our unwavering commitment to creating a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Developed in partnership with local consultant EJ Shu, this framework embraces the spirit of inclusivity, compassion, and collaboration with the community as a whole. By addressing key dimensions for change, we’re paving the way for a brighter, more supportive future on the Central Coast for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.

The six themes or key dimensions for change in our Framework that address local priorities of the Central Coast community are:

  1. increasing knowledge about dementia;
  2. improving attitudes and interactions;
  3. enhancing access to services;
  4. facilitating social integration
  5. improving spaces and places; and
  6. supporting carers.

Action Plan

Our Action Plan, crafted with love and dedication by a passionate Working Group, embodies our commitment to making Central Coast a place where individuals living with dementia can thrive. With principles centred around respect, inclusivity, and community responsibility, this plan outlines specific strategies to foster awareness, accessibility, and support. Together, we’re embarking on a journey of continuous improvement, guided by the voices and needs of our community.

You can download the Action Plan here:

Connect Café

Join us at the Connect Café every Tuesday for a shared community experience filled with laughter, conversation, and connection. Hosted at the Gnomon Room in the Wharf Precinct, the café provides a welcoming space for people living with dementia and their carers to socialise and enjoy refreshments. All community members are welcome. Donations are appreciated, as the café is supported by the Ulverstone Lions Club.

When: Tuesdays 10am to 12pm
Where: Gnomon Room, Wharf Precinct, Ulverstone

Email: [email protected] for more information.

Impacts and Benefits

Beyond cognitive challenges, dementia can have profound impacts on an individuals’ sense of belonging and well-being within their community. Through our efforts to reduce stigma and increase awareness, we’re creating a ripple effect of positivity that extends to individuals living with dementia, caregivers, businesses, tourism, and the wider community.

As part of the work being done by putting together this Framework, we’re building a more compassionate and understanding society where everyone has a place to belong.

Our Framework looked at global case studies and benefits experienced by creating dementia-friendly communities. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, benefits in Australia include:

  • Benefit to people living with dementia and their carers, as attitude changes in the community, active participation and enabling policies to help diminish the impacts of stigma and social isolation.
  • Economic benefit to business, as improved accessibility and more inclusive service behaviours make business more desirable in the eyes of customers seeking a more supportive and welcoming experience.
  • Economic benefit to tourism, as older and more affluent travellers actively seek out destinations with a commitment to inclusivity and accessible physical environments.
  • Benefit to the health budget, as increased ability for people with dementia to live at home reduces pressure on aged care facilities.
  • Benefits to the wider population, as improved levels of inclusivity and accessibility in a community can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.

Dementia-Friendly Inclusion Training

Empathy, understanding, and education are at the heart of our Dementia-Friendly Inclusion Training initiative. By empowering businesses and community groups with the knowledge and tools to support individuals living with dementia, we’re fostering a culture of inclusivity and kindness. Through these efforts, we’re not just raising awareness – we’re building a community where everyone feels valued and respected.

Keep your eyes out for information on upcoming training opportunities.

Directional Signage

Navigate Central Coast with ease and confidence thanks to our dementia-friendly directional signage project. By incorporating principles of colour contrast, legibility, and visibility, we’re creating environments that are welcoming and accessible for individuals living with dementia. With support from Dementia Australia and the Tasmanian Health Service, we’re ensuring that everyone can find their way with ease and peace of mind.

Research

Behind every statistic is a story, and our research into dementia prevalence rates is no exception. By understanding the evolving impact of dementia on our community, we’re better equipped to develop targeted interventions and initiatives that meet the unique needs of individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future where everyone feels supported and understood.

Dementia is one of the fastest growing conditions in Australia. In Australia, an estimated 400,833 people have dementia, including 25,938 people living with younger onset dementia.

Nationally, the dementia prevalence rate is growing at a rate of 3.8% for males and 2.5% for females, meaning around 244 people in Australia are diagnosed with dementia every day. Statewide, Tasmania’s dementia population is expected to grow to more than 20,600 by 2056, with the fastest growth predicted over the next two decades.

Dementia can be estimated by applying dementia prevalence rates to population data. In 2011, there was an estimated 332 residents in the Central Coast living with dementia. Based on population forecasts for 2027, the population with dementia is projected to be 579. By the year 2037, this number is projected to be 795.

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Easter Closures & Bin Changes

Please be aware that Council Offices, Services, and Kerbside Collections for Penguin, will be impacted by the Easter Holidays.

Christmas Closures

Please be aware that Council Offices, Services and Kerbside Collections for West Ulverstone, Forth & Leith will be impacted by the 2025-2026 Christmas season.