Winter 2014

The Premier attends launch of Dementia Learning OnlineThe hon Dr Denis napthine, Premier of Victoria, attended the fourth biannual Victorian Parliamentary Friends of Dementia meeting held by Alzheimer’s Australia Vic at Parliament house on 29 May.

Dementia Learning online, an innovative and interactive learning environment, was launched at the meeting. The resource aims to achieve practice improvement in the workplace among residential and community carers who play a key role in the lives of people living with dementia. Dr Denis napthine congratulated all present on the launch of the new resource and the importance of the work of Alzheimer’s Australia Vic.

Maree McCabe, Alzheimer’s Australia Vic Ceo, said that Dementia Learning

online is an innovative and accessible education resource that will go a long way to supporting and enhancing the quality of care provided to the estimated 320,000 people with dementia in Australia.

“This is a significant step by Alzheimer’s Australia Vic to ensure the increasing numbers of carers in Australia are well trained, better informed and best equipped to provide all people living with dementia the highest quality of care that they deserve,” Ms McCabe said.

The launch of Dementia Learning online was co-convened by Georgie Crozier MP, Parliamentary Secretary for health and Jenny Mikakos MP, Shadow Minister for Seniors and Ageing.

Bring it to the Table

A Night to Remember

Memory Walk & Jog

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4

8

Cont on Page 3

ABOVE: The Hon Dr Denis Napthine, Premier of Victoria, at Victorian Parliamentary Friends of Dementia. Photo: Arsineh Houspian

newsletter of Alzheimer’s AustrAliA Vic

The MeMoRy MATTeRs

Issue 113 WINTeR 2014

AT ALzheiMer’S AuSTrALiA Vic we rely on people within our community to support and fund our work, and community fundraising is essential to this achievement. it is largely through the effort of our tireless fundraisers that Alzheimer’s Australia Vic continues to provide essential support services and programs for the growing number of people impacted by dementia in our community. Testament to this is the outstanding increase of just under 60 per cent in the contribution from our community fundraisers during the last financial year alone.

June saw the continuance of this support with a hugely successful month of fundraising efforts, which would not have been possible without the contribution of those in the community who took part. our fundraising dinner, A night To remember, was an overwhelming success, raising over $80,000, which will be used to develop an educational and support program for children who have a parent or grandparent with dementia.

Throughout June, we also celebrated our national fundraising campaign, Bring

it to the Table, which saw community members across the country gather their friends and families together to host an event in support of people with dementia, their families and carers.

This year we’re hosting a Family Fun Day in July, which will treat children to some fun while acknowledging the role they play in supporting their loved one living with dementia. We’re also excited to be hosting our very first Memory Walk & Jog fundraising event in Geelong in September as part of Dementia Awareness Month.

Be assured that by organising or participating in a community fundraising event, you will be raising much needed funds to support Alzheimer’s Australia Vic and our work with people impacted by dementia, their families and carers, enabling us to continue to provide leading services and programs in support of people living with all forms of dementia.

in addition to contributing to our community fundraising initiatives, there are other, countless opportunities to get involved with Alzheimer’s Australia Vic. Making a donation, providing a bequest or purchasing

Launch of Dementia Learning Online...

ThrouGhouT June, community members across the country perfected their entertaining skills to Bring it to the Table in support of people with dementia, their families and carers.

Alzheimer’s Australia national President, ita Buttrose, said funds raised by the initiative will enable Alzheimer’s Australia to continue to provide crucial support services for the

increasing number of people living with dementia and those that support them.

Joining the fight against dementia for Bring it to the Table in Melbourne were siblings izzy and Tom with their grandma Joy, along with harley and siblings Matilda and Dulcie, who took part in a tea party high in the sky aboard the Melbourne Star observation Wheel. Proving

it’s not just about who can cook the most delicious meal, the group got together to talk about dementia and support those who are touched by the condition while indulging in cupcakes and spectacular 360-degree views of Melbourne.

Thank you to all those people who hosted and participated in ‘Bring it to the Table’ events throughout June.

Ms McCabe said that as the number of people with dementia is set to rapidly rise as Australia’s population ages, improving the quality of care through best practice training is imperative.

“The intention of launching the online learning resource in Parliament house is to demonstrate to Members the importance of aged care providers in their electorates to aim for best practice dementia care for all staff levels in the care system,” she said.

“We congratulate Alzheimer’s Australia Vic on their development

of this innovative online dementia education program that will make a difference to the lives of all Victorians living with dementia, their families and carers, and encourage aged care providers to adopt the training tool in their professional development program for all staff members,” said Ms Crozier and Jenny Mikakos in a joint statement.

The online education resource features four modules that are designed to be user friendly, practical and can be completed in less than one hour.

Themes focused on throughout the modules range from an introduction to dementia to expectations for service delivery, and enhancing communication skills to adopting effective strategies to help prevent or minimise the impact of behaviour.

For more information on Dementia Learning online, go to www.dementialearning.org.au Photos from the event can be viewed via Alzheimer’s Australia Vic’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/AlzheimersAustraliaVic

merchandise in support of Alzheimer’s Australia Vic provides valuable funds while enabling us to continue delivering policy and advocacy initiatives for the hundreds of thousands of Australians living with dementia and their carers.

Sponsorship also plays an important role in our ability to deliver events, allowing us to establish mutually beneficial relationships with organisations, businesses and individuals, while volunteering can open up numerous opportunities to become involved in the activities and services we provide all year round.

our next issue will share all the details about our Dementia Awareness Month activities that will run throughout September, focusing on the theme of creating a dementia-friendly Australia.

Thank you again for your partnership and support and the difference this makes to people impacted by dementia.

Maree McCabe, CEO

...continued from page 1

ABOVE: L-R Matilda, Tom, Joy, Izzy, Harley and Dulcie enjoy a tea party in the sky aboard the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel.

The fight against dementia takes a culinary turn as people Bring it to the Table

To find out more about Bring it to the Table, email

Kristin.Marshall@alzheimers.org.au or call (03) 9816 5746.

Picture Darren Jam

es

national Dementia helpline 1800 100 500 fightdementia.org.au/vic 3 2 The MeMoRy MATTeRs iSSue 113 WINTeR 2014

Editorialteamchristine Bolt General Manager, Communicationsfleur Jacobs Media and Communications Officer

notes from the editor The next edition of The Memory Matters will be published in August 2014. if you would like to suggest a story idea, submit a letter or feedback please contact Christine Bolt on 03 9816 5772, Christine.bolt@alzheimers.org.au or now via… Twitter: @AlzheimersVic Facebook: Alzheimer’s Australia Vic YouTube: AlzheimersVicSign up for our monthly e-news: newsvic@alzheimers.org.au

ThANk you To ouR suppoRTeRs AlzheIMeR’s AusTRAlIA VIc Is gRATeful foR oNgoINg suppoRT fRoM:

Printed on fsc and iso 14001 accredited paper using environmentally friendly inks

WELCOME

AboutusAlzheimer’s Australia Vic is the charity andpeak body providing education, support,advocacy and information for thethousands of Victorians living withdementia and their families.

Our vision is for a society committed to the prevention of dementia, while valuing and supporting people living with dementia.

To find out more about us and the services we provide visit fightdementia.org.au/vic or call the national Dementia helpline on 1800 100 500

DisclaimerArticles in this publication provide a general summary only of the subject matter covered. Any person with dementia should seek professional advice about their specific case. Alzheimer’s Australia Vic is not liable for any error or omission in this publication. Permission should be sought from the editor before reproducing articles. once permission is given the source must be acknowledged. Alzheimer’s Australia Vic does not endorse any products, opinions or services of any description.

T: 03 9815 7800 F: 03 9815 7801

Postal Address Alzheimer’s Australia Vic Locked Bag 3001 hawthorn ViC 3122

BoardofDirectors

executiveChair mr Graeme samuel AcVice Chair mr neil h. samuelTreasurer mr ian KnightSecretary ms frauke tyrrell

membersms lyn Allisonmr Jerome fahrermr ian hicksProfessor fran mcinerneymr Geoff sladeAssoc Prof michael woodward

chief medical AdvisorAssoc Prof michael woodward

Patronthe honourable Alex chernov Ac Qc Governor of Victoria

Trading as Alzheimer’s Australia Vic inc.Contactdetails

Family Services98–107 riversdale road, hawthorn ViC 3122Learning Services 155 oak St, Parkville ViC 3052ABn 14 671 840 186

A Night tO RemembeR

ThAnK You to the five fantastic chefs – Chef De Cuisine Jeffrey Tan, iPF Culinary Consultancy Services; executive Chef Mark normoyle, rACV City Club, Melbourne; executive Chef raymond Capaldi, hare and Grace; executive Chef Dale Lyman, William Angliss institute and executive Pastry Chef Pierrick Boyer, rACV City Club and Le Petit Gateau.

These five Melbourne chefs generously joined forces with legendary sportsman Max Walker AM as Master of Ceremonies at the glamorous 2014 A night To remember fundraising dinner on 17 May at the rACV City Club.

Alzheimer’s Australia Vic in partnership with the rotary Club of Manningham presented the 2014 A night to remember fundraising

dinner, helping to raise more than $80,000 to develop an educational and support program for children who have a parent or grandparent with dementia.

Bringing together 330 guests, the event featured five delicious courses with matching wine, each prepared by each of the five world-renowned chefs who generously supported the night. The night was a unique culinary experience and a celebration of Melbourne’s reputation as the culinary capital of Australia

“The generosity of people getting behind our A night To remember is so important to making a difference to the lives of all

A Night to Remember a huge success

ABOVE: L-R Max Walker AM, Meigan Lefebure, General Manager, Opal Aged Care (formerly Domain Principal Group), Katie Bentley, CEO, Trident Computer Services, Maree McCabe, CEO, Alzheimer’s Australia Vic,Nicholas Oates, Wacker Neuson

people living with dementia, their families and carers and in this case for their children,” said evan Gordon, General Manager, Fundraising, Alzheimer’s Australia Vic.

The event featured an auction of several exclusive holiday packages to exotic destinations, priceless experiences and other premium items. You can see all the images capturing the night via our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/AlzheimersAustraliaVic or visit www.antr.org.au

Thank you to our major sponsors

Trident Computer Services, Wacker

Neuson and Opal Aged Care

(formerly Domain Principal Group).

ABOVE: L-R Chefs Raymond Capaldi, Mark Normoyle, Pierrick Boyer, Dale Lyman and Jeffrey Tan

L-R Breanna, Kahrynn and

Hannah share the experience

of their mother who is living with dementia

national Dementia helpline 1800 100 500 fightdementia.org.au/vic 5 4 The MeMoRy MATTeRs iSSue 113 WINTeR 2014

ValuingPeopleALzheiMer’S AuSTrALiA launched an innovative, online organisational self-assessment tool at the national Gallery of Victoria on Thursday 12 June. The tool is available, free of charge, for organisations seeking to achieve excellence in person-centred care, which is an approach that enables an individual as well as their carer to become involved in the decision making regarding their own care.

The easy-to-use online resource, Valuing People has been developed in collaboration with community aged care providers who have found it to be an invaluable resource in establishing person-centred care. The organisational resource is available online for any community aged care provider regardless of size, service mix, cultural context or location.

Dr David Sykes, General Manager of Learning and Development at Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, said the national online resource demonstrates innovation in the delivery of care for people living with dementia in Australia and their carers by providing organisations with the opportunity to review their current approach in a wholistic way.

“The tool enables aged care providers to achieve excellence in dementia practice by providing a person-centred framework to strengthen the flexibility of their services and maximise consumer outcomes,” Dr Sykes said.

Valuing People has been developed with funding from Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, the national Quality Dementia Care initiative and the Federal Government’s encouraging Best Practice in Aged Care (eBPAC) program. For more information on Valuing People, go to www.valuingpeople.org.au

keepiNg yOu iNfORmeDkeepiNg yOu iNfORmeD

ABOVE: L-R Alzheimer’s Australia National CEO, Glenn Rees (right) joins Dr David Sykes, General Manager Learning and Development and Christine Pappon, Project Manager, Quality Dementia Care of Alzheimer’s Australia Vic at the launch of Valuing People

A ForMer PSYChoLoGiST and journalist, Trish’s interest in research and the brain led her to the Alzheimer’s Australia Vic newsletter The Memory Matters.

Trish discovered Pick’s disease, commonly confused with Alzheimer’s disease, was a rare disorder that causes the frontal temporal lobes of the brain, which control speech and personality, to slowly atrophy.

So impressed was Trish with the content of The Memory Matters that she became a member of Alzheimer’s Australia Vic just to receive the newsletters.

Sadly, her friend’s husband Jack died last year.

“Pick’s disease is a horrible one,” said Trish, of Black rock.

“The great tragedy was that his family wouldn’t acknowledge he had a problem. he’d put on a great act when his son was visiting, so his son was convinced there was nothing wrong with him. But as soon as his son left, his personality changed.”

But it wasn’t just Jack’s disease that prompted her journey of discovery into dementia - or her decision to leave a legacy in her Will to Alzheimer’s Australia Vic.

“i was very interested in dementia for more than 10 years,” said Trish. “Some years ago i was in my 70s. The fact that my husband and i were aging and we had a number of friends who were losing their memory prompted me to do something more.

“i really wanted to make a difference to the lives of people living with dementia, so i not only became a volunteer in a nursing home, i also decided to leave a bequest in my Will to Alzheimer’s Australia Vic.”

“hopefully my bequest may help research scientists to make a breakthrough in the ultimate quest for

the prevention of Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.”

Trish’s determination to improve the quality of life of

people with dementia also sparked her interest in the Alzheimer’s Australia Vic virtual Forest Project – a world-first sensory therapy application using cutting-edge video gaming technology. using smart TV’s it aims to turn a living room at home or in an aged care centre into an enchanted space that stimulates the senses and engages through interactivity.

“The virtual reality means that they can be in a safe environment,” she said.

“it’s obvious a lot of research has gone into this and i love how it can be extended to include different environments whether summer or winter, Christmas or a beach.

“it means people with dementia can be taken into different environments, and mentally go back to their childhood. ultimately it stimulates their brain.

“A lot can be done to improve the quality of life for people with dementia and hopefully to slow the progression of the disease and for this reason, apart from my bequest, i will also donate during my lifetime to help Alzheimer’s Australia Vic with their work.”

the power of trish’s will When her friend’s husband was diagnosed with Pick’s disease - a very rare form of dementia that causes a slow shrinking of brain cells due to excess protein build-up - Trish Petch embarked on a passionate journey to make a difference to the lives of those affected by dementia.

“HopefullymybequestmayhelpresearchscientiststomakeabreakthroughintheultimatequestforthepreventionofAlzheimer’sandothertypesofdementia.”

ALzheiMer’S AuSTrALiA Vic will be holding a special event for children who have a family member or friend living with dementia. The event will be held on Sunday 20 July from 1.30 – 4.30pm at the newport Substation. The main purpose of the event will be to simply treat these children to some fun and acknowledge the role they play in supporting their loved one living with dementia. Do you know any primary-school aged children, along with their families who would be interested in attending?

To request an invitation or further details, contact Brighid & Lynda, Family Clinicians, Alzheimer’s Australia Vic,

FAmilyFunDAy

Sunday 20 Julysave the date

Don’t miss out on your chance to

meet Afl hawthorn champion,

sam Mitchell, who will be

attending the event!

For a confidential discussion on leaving a bequest please call natalie Sikora, Planned Giving manager, on (03) 9816 5776.

To support The Forest Project please visit http://givealzheimers australiavic.org.au/event/theforestproject or contact evan Gordon, General Manager Fundraising on (03) 9816 5743.

Trish Petch at home with an issue of The Memory Matters

national Dementia helpline 1800 100 500 fightdementia.org.au/vic 7 6 The MeMoRy MATTeRs iSSue 103 suMMeR 2011

keepiNg yOu iNfORmeDkeepiNg yOu iNfORmeD

ThiS YeAr, Alzheimer’s Australia Vic is hosting the inaugural Geelong Memory Walk & Jog on Sunday 14 September. Memory Walk & Jog started as a small community event in Homebush NSW. The first Memory Walk was held in 2008 and brought together 986 people whose lives had been touched by dementia. This year Alzheimer’s Australia Vic is pleased to host its first Memory Walk & Jog to raise funds for people affected by dementia.

With more than 332,000 Australians living with dementia and 78,000 of those in our state alone, it’s a fatal condition that will almost certainly affect us or someone we love in our lifetime. All funds raised increase Alzheimer’s Australia Vic’s ability to provide vital support services, such as counselling, support groups, education to help family carers, and professional training across Victoria. These services reduce feelings of isolation and empower people living with dementia and those caring for them. With your help, we can make sure that our support is always available to those who need it.

For more details or to register, visit www.memorywalk.com.au

Jointhewalktoenddementia

Are you interested in expressing your voice on dementia issues? We are currently recruiting for membership of the Alzheimer’s Australia Vic Consumer Advisory Committee. This dynamic group meets every second month to identify dementia issues of concern; to review policy; to have dialogue with service providers; and to advocate on behalf of Victorians living with all forms of dementia.

if you are interested in membership, further details can be found at http://www.fightdementia.org.au/victoria/consumer-advisory-committee.aspx where you can view the Terms of reference. Jack Sach at Alzheimer’s Australia Vic would welcome your call on 03 9815 7800.

PeoPLe LiVinG with dementia, their families and carers will have access to more services in the Gippsland region as a result of a new Alzheimer’s Australia Vic office opened in Drouin on 17 April, funded by the State and Federal Governments.

Gary Blackwood, MP, State Member for Narracan, officially opened the new office and Enid Telford, who cared for her husband Kelvin who lived with dementia, shared her story with guests. Alzheimer’s Australia

Vic’s Ceo Maree McCabe was also present to officially acknowledge the government’s financial contribution and the importance of expanding dementia support services in the region.

In addition to existing offices at Lakes entrance and Cowes, this new office will enable Alzheimer’s Australia Vic to expand and increase the information, support, counselling and education services to people in the region living with dementia and their families and carers.

ABOVE: L-R; Sisters Georgia and Bonnie Sharp join (L-R) Gary Blackwood, MP, State Member for Narracan, Maree McCabe, CEO, Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, Barbara Potter AM and Consumer Enid Telford at the cutting of the ribbon

Drouinofficeopening

Alzheimer’sAustraliaawinneratTheVictorianiAwardsALzheiMer’S AuSTrALiA Vic has been acknowledged at The Victorian iAwards for the Virtual Dementia experience, which recognises the achievements of home-grown Australian innovators at the cutting edge of technology.

Alzheimer’s Australia Vic won the education category award, which recognises the most successful and innovative application of information and Communications Technology (iCT) to the delivery of education and training.

The Virtual Dementia experience is an interactive environment providing an experiential learning exercise for professional carers to lead them into changing their attitudes and interactions with people living with dementia thereby transforming their approach to caring. Training courses using the experience have been delivered since March this year at our Parkville site. For more information call 03 9815 7800.

iAwardsWinner

hAVe you lIkeD us oN fAceBook?

www.facebook.com/AlzheimersAustraliaVic

Become a member today from as little as $15. call Rebecca to find out more on 9816 5783

BeingaDementiaVoice

A taste of what’s to come – 2013 Sydney Memory Walk & Jog, Leichhardt Oval

national Dementia helpline 1800 100 500 fightdementia.org.au/vic 9 8 The MeMoRy MATTeRs iSSue 103 suMMeR 2011

keepiNg yOu iNfORmeD keepiNg yOu iNfORmeD

Driving&DementiaWhile people in the early stages of dementia can remain safe and competent drivers, the condition involves a progressive decline in functioning, which causes changes in driving ability.

Changed Conditions Ahead is a dementia and driving resource kit that was launched earlier this year by well-known Australian actor Terence Donovan. The kit, developed through a partnership between Alzheimer’s Australia Vic and rACV, supports people living with dementia along with their families and friends when it comes to the challenges associated with driving.

resources include the Dementia and Driving Guide for Families and Carers and two short videos, available on DVD and YouTube, which focus on starting conversations about driving and staying active, mobile and connected.

The project is also rolling out community information sessions on dementia and driving. To date these have been carried out in hawthorn, Preston, Ballarat and Geelong. Further sessions will be delivered in Traralgon,

Shepparton, Bendigo, narre Warren, Caroline Springs and Mildura over coming months.

Topics covered in the sessions: • recognising changes in driving

ability• responding to changes in driving

ability• legal and licensing requirements

for drivers• starting conversations about

driving• working with health

professionals, and how to stay mobile, active and connected.

Sessions will be interactive and provide opportunities for questions and discussion. refreshments will also be provided. For a copy of the Changed Conditions Ahead kit, contact the national Dementia helpline on 1800 100 500, or you can download the resources from the kit at www.fightdementia.org.au/dementiaanddriving

For more information about a dementia and driving community information session near you, or to make a booking, phone 03 9815 7822.

The neW 2014/2015 Melbourne and Geelong, Surf Coast and Ballarat entertainment™ Memberships are available and contain thousands of valuable up to 50 per cent off and ‘2-for-1’ offers from many of the best restaurants, cafés, arts, attractions, hotel accommodation, travel and much more! From every entertainment™ Membership we sell, 20 per cent goes towards Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, enabling us to support people living with dementia, their families and carers.

To order your copy of the 2014/2015 entertainment Book, phone us on 03 9815 7800, email vic.fundraising@alzheimers.org.au or visit www.entertainmentbook.com.au/orderbooks/1868y55 to order online.

memberships

DementiaCareEssentialsThrouGh AuSTrALiAn Government funding, Alzheimer’s Australia Vic has been delivering the accredited Dementia Care essentials (DCe) program to aged care workers employed in residential, community and flexible aged care services across the state of Victoria.

Aiming to provide dementia specific training, the objectives of the program are to: • Increase the dementia care skills among aged care workers utilising

principles of person-centred care• Provide training and assessment, including workplace assessment, for

aged care workers in the units of competency from the Certificate III in Aged Care and the unit from the Certificate IV in Aged Care.

The current DCe project (December 2010-April 2014) been delivered to 6167 aged care workers. each program consists of three day face-to-face training either held at a central location or on-site at an aged care facility.

The aim of each program is to engage and encourage collaboration between aged care workers in the learning process and to use this training as an opportunity to instigate cultural change to enhance the quality of aged care.

over 90 per cent of participants who have undertaken the DCe training felt that it has had a positive impact on their workplace behaviour and 96 per cent of participants would recommend it to others.

DCe is available for those who are currently working in Commonwealth funded aged care settings.

For further information visit http://www.fightdementia.org.au/victoria/accredited-programs_vic.aspx or please contact Sarah Bartlett on (03) 9816 5749 or via Sarah.Bartlett@alzheimers.org.au

AlzheimerAustraliaVic’s

DementiaAwarenessmonthSTeVe MiLTon, one of three directors of innovations in Dementia, a not-for-profit Community Interest Company in the uK, will deliver a public lecture on creating dementia-friendly communities at Melbourne City Conference Centre, 333 Swanston Street, Melbourne, on Thursday 18 September at 10.30am, as part of Dementia Awareness Month.

The lecture will discuss the dementia-friendly concept as well as present practical examples from the uK experience of creating dementia-friendly communities.

innovations in Dementia work with people with dementia, partner organisations and professionals to develop and test projects that enhance the lives of people with dementia. Steve Milton’s role in Dementia-Friendly Communities has been highly influential in the UK, leading to dementia-friendly communities as a priority of the Prime Ministers Dementia Challenge in 2012.

Steve Milton has worked in the dementia field since 1995. In 1996 he set up the uK Alzheimer’s Society helpline, which he ran until 2002. During this time the helpline provided support and information to over 150,000 people. he has been involved in training since 1994, and became an associate trainer for Dementia Voice uK in 2003.

To register your interest, email rsvp.vic@ alzheimers.org.au or call (03) 9816 5799

The free Entertainment™ Book Companion App is now available to download on your iPhone and Android smartphone

Project developed in the DCE Support Planning course based on the life story of an individual, which can be used as a method in supporting a person living with dementia

Steve Milton, Director,

Innovations in Dementia

national Dementia helpline 1800 100 500 fightdementia.org.au/vic 11 10 The MeMoRy MATTeRs iSSue 113 WINTeR 2014

yOuR bRAiN mAtteRsReseARch News

An update from the Australian imaging, biomarkers and Lifestyle (AibL) flagship study of AgeingThe AuSTrALiAn imaging, Biomarkers and Lifestyle (AiBL) study is a longitudinal study of over 1000 volunteers from Melbourne and Perth. Some are healthy older people, some have mild cognitive impairment, and some have Alzheimer’s disease. Participants are assessed every 18 months to enable long-term research into ageing and the development of Alzheimer’s disease. AiBL assessments include testing of clinical factors and cognitive function, collection of blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples for biomarker discovery, brain imaging, and obtaining information on diet and physical activity.

now in its seventh year, AiBL is part of a substantial international effort to study the relationships between clinical characteristics and Alzheimer’s biomarkers in groups who carry different risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. This research is critical to the development of approaches to prevent dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is characterised by the accumulation of beta amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain, for which there is currently no disease modifying therapy. Biomarker research has revealed that these brain changes begin 20 to 30 years before the emergence of the clinical symptoms that result in a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease dementia. This preclinical phase provides an exciting opportunity for therapeutic intervention to prevent or delay cognitive decline.

imaging findingsThe accumulation of beta amyloid plaques can now be detected in the living brain with positron emission tomography (PeT) imaging. The AiBL study is using this and other brain imaging techniques to discover how the brain changes as Alzheimer’s develops. This could lead to earlier

diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, better differential diagnosis of different types of dementia, and better prediction of progression from mild cognitive impairment to dementia. in healthy older people in the AiBL study, older age was associated with higher beta amyloid burden, consistent with age being the biggest risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. Beta amyloid burden was found to increase over time, taking about twenty years to go from the threshold of abnormal beta amyloid burden to the levels observed in Alzheimer’s disease dementia. These findings confirm that brain changes in Alzheimer’s disease begin decades before clinical symptoms emerge.

biomarker findingsimaging of beta amyloid has provided significant insight into the development of Alzheimer’s disease. however, due to its high cost and the requirement for non-standard PeT technology, it has limited use as a general population screening tool for Alzheimer’s disease. The identification of blood biomarkers that track with the changes in brain beta amyloid burden could provide a cost-effective and accessible way to identify those at risk of Alzheimer’s disease, to monitor disease progression, and to test the effects of new therapies. Analysis of AiBL data has revealed a combination of blood biomarkers which is predictive of brain beta amyloid burden. however, a lot more work is required before this technique could be used as a reliable screening or diagnostic method.

Lifestyle findingsThe primary aim of the lifestyle programme of AiBL is to examine physical activity and diet factors associated with healthy aging and with Alzheimer’s disease. Previous research shows that regular physical activity is associated with lower dementia risk. Data from the AiBL study indicates that intensity of physical activity is also an important aspect, with higher intensity activity associated with better cognitive

function in healthy older participants. Analysis of AiBL participants’ dietary patterns revealed differences between a Western diet (characterised by red and processed meats, refined grains, potatoes, sweets and condiments) and a Prudent diet (characterised by higher consumption of vegetables, fruits and nuts). higher prudent diet adherence was associated with better cognitive functioning, whilst higher adherence to the ‘unhealthy’ western diet was associated with poorer cognitive performance and greater cognitive decline over 36 months.

AiBL has made substantial contributions to our understanding of the cognitive and biological changes associated with ageing in general and Alzheimer’s disease in particular, and contributed to the international effort in establishing standards for early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. it is important that this vital research continues. To find out more, including how you might be able to help, visit aibl.csiro.au

Source: ellis KA et al. enabling a multidisciplinary approach to the study of ageing and Alzheimer’s disease: an update from the Australian imaging Biomarkers and Lifestyle (AiBL) study. int rev Psychiatry. 2013; 25(6):699-710.

Do you know someone who may

be interested in participating in

dementia research?A list of dementia research trials currently recruiting participants is available on our website http://dementiaresearchfoundation.org.au/get-involved-dementia-research or by calling the national Dementia helpline on 1800 100 500. Studies range from surveys to clinical drug trials and may be for people with dementia, their carers or healthy older people. Please share this information with anyone you feel may be interested in supporting dementia research.

Your BrAin iS your most valuable health asset, and it’s never too early or too late to start protecting it. The Your Brain Matters program is based on scientific research which suggests that leading a brain healthy life may reduce a person’s risk of developing dementia. Mentally challenging your brain is one of the 5 Simple Steps To Maximise Your Brain health.

higher levels of mental activity throughout life are consistently associated better brain function and reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia. however, it is important to choose activities that are challenging to you. rather than only doing activities that you are good at, try something different.

Starting a new ‘challenging’ activity might sound difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. You just need to find an activity you enjoy doing, but that also makes you think and learn new skills. There might be something you have always wanted to try, such as learning to play a musical instrument. You can also build on or learn new things about an activity you already enjoy. if you grow beautiful roses, you might like to try growing a

vegetable patch or worm farming.

You can also combine mental, physical and social activities for an even greater benefit. Dancing is an excellent example of an activity which combines all three components for a boost to your brain health. Learning the steps challenges your brain, moving around keeps you active, and dancing is always more fun in a group. The best part is that there are many different types of dance, which caters for different abilities and interests.

For more information on Your Brain Matters, and to download a range of resources, visit www. yourbrainmatters.org.au Your Brain Matters is supported by funding from the Australian Government under the Chronic Disease Prevention and Service improvement Fund.

You can also get some great ideas for mentally challenging activities from the Your Brain Matters social media sites. Blog www.yourbrainmatters.org.au/blog Facebook www.facebook.com/YourBrainMatters Twitter www.twitter.com/urBrainMatters

mentally challenge your brain simple steps to maximise brain health Ready to try

something new? Sign up for the 21 Day Challenge at www.yourbrainmatters.org.au/challenge.

We are asking you to pledge a commitment to your brain health and spend the next 21 days enjoying your new experience. If you need ideas, the 21 Day Challenge website lists over 50 activities to keep your brain active. Some examples which are mentally challenging as well as physical or social include:

• Volunteerataschooloryourfavourite charity

• StartaDIYproject

• Teachafriendorrelativehowto play chess

• InviteyourfriendstoaweeklyDVDMovieClub

• Readabookorlistentoapodcast while exercising

• Tryamentallydemandingsport like archery, sailing or orienteering.

national Dementia helpline 1800 100 500 fightdementia.org.au/vic 13 12 The MeMoRy MATTeRs iSSue 113 WINTeR 2014

WhAT’s oN

whAt’s New iN the LibRARyour library is at 100 riversdale road, hawthorn. it’s packed with books, videos, DVDs and journal articles. here are a few of our newest items. Why not pay us a visit?

DementiaBlogAs an alternate way to promote

the wonderful resources and tools we have available in the library we have created a blog.

Dementia resources Blog will showcase items from our collection, material published

by Alzheimer’s Australia as well as other resources from around the world. The blog is theme based and some of our recent

topics have included; Dementia in prison communities,

Driving and dementia, the Montessori approach method and Brain health. Visit www.

dementiaresources.wordpress.com to subscribe and you’ll be updated on our online missives

as they are posted.

memoryweaving:ananthologyofdementiajourneysEdited by Carolyn Vimpani (2014)

Memory Weaving is an anthology of poetry about loss and love, the gradual loss of the person as dementia progresses and the loyalty and love that endures. The person remains - mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, spouse, friend... They have a history and if they cannot hold their memories then we must do so for them, to weave anew the fabric of lived experience.

memoryandcommunicationaidsforpeoplewithdementiaMichelle S. Bourgeois (2014)

Based on years of research with people with memory impairments, this practical book describes how to create memory aids such as memory books, memory wallets, planners, memory boards, and reminder cards that use simple words and pictures to stimulate communication, support memory, and improve the quality of life of people with dementia and related memory impairments. For further resources for younger readers visit our library blog Dementia resources - http://dementiaresources.wordpress.com/

isitdementiaoroldage?GettinganassessmentanddiagnosisAs they age, some people become concerned about the changes they experience to their memory. Join us for a free community seminar on Tuesday 12 August in Swan hill, to learn what’s involved, where to go and how you can encourage a person to have a diagnosis.

For more information or to register, phone 03 9816 5708 or email vic.education@alzheimers.org.au

July to september 2014 Alzheimer’s Australia Vic is a registered Training organisation.

Bookings are essential: Call 03 9816 5708 or email to vic.education@alzheimers.org.au

registration forms and details: fightdementia.org.au/vic registration: 15 minutes prior to course commencement

wORkshOps & tRAiNiNg - bOOk NOw

free sessionsWorriedaboutyourmemory?Many people as they grow older become worried that changes they are experiencing to their memory may be the beginnings of dementia. it is important to have these changes investigated, so that they can either be treated, or the person can access appropriate support and services that will assist in planning for their future. This seminar covers what’s involved, where to go and how you can encourage a person to have a diagnosis. Tue 15 July 10.30am – 12.00noonVenue: Portland Golf Club, Madeira Packet road, Portland VicCost: Free. Cne points: 1.5

Dementia care programsSensoryandimmersivetherapiesefterpi Soropos of human rooms has developed workshops designed to teach staff how to incorporate more sensory elements into the framework of daily care, from the use of simple easy to access ingre-dients and options on how to re-develop and use of sensory rooms. Thurs 3 July9.30am – 12.30pmVenue: Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, 155 oak Street, Parkville Cost: $160 $150 Members Cne points: 3

Depressionanddementiaunderstand the impact of depression on people with dementia, how to identify ‘at risk’ individuals and appropriate strategies and interventions.

Tue 22July9:30am – 12:30pmVenue: Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, 155 oak Street, Parkville Cost: $160 $150 Members. Cne points: 3

youngeronsetdementia(yOD)This workshop is designed to provide a partici-pant with a better understanding of the impact dementia has on the younger person and their family, as well as their distinctive care needs.Tue 5 August9:30am – 12:30pmVenue: Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, 155 oak Street, Parkville Cost: $160 $150 Members. Cne points: 3

Lifestyle & LeisureActivityprogramsbasedonthemontessorimethodThis is an introduction to the Montessori approach demonstrating the creation and presentation of meaningful activities for people living with dementia. You will better appreciate the importance of creating successful activities that are meaningful for the person living with dementia, that will assist families to restore meaningful engagement when visiting someone living with dementia.Wed 23 July Venue: Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, 155 oak Street, ParkvilleTue 12 AugustVenue: Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, 98-104 riversdale road, hawthorn 9.30am – 4.00pmCost: $240 $225 Members. Cne points: 6

Beyondbingo–livingwellwithipads®fordementiaAs our Baby Boomer population hits the aged care sector, learn about the positive aspects of using an iPad to help interact and engage with a person with dementia in a modern, meaningful way. This course will cover dementia and its impact on the brain, the uses of an iPad and applications and you will gain an understanding of how engagement in iPad activities can lead to increased interactions with families and staff and bridge the gap between older and younger generations.

Thurs 31 July9:30am – 12:30pm Venue: Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, 155 oak Street, Parkville Cost: Free. Cne points: 3

improvisationalstorytellingforpeoplelivingwithdementiaThis is a program designed to support the use of imagination, creativity and identity in people living with dementia. improvisational storytelling is a method that makes it possible for everyone to join in without the fear of failing while encouraging the use of imagination. Wed 27 August9:30am – 12:30pm Venue: Alzheimer’s Australia Vic, 155 oak Street, ParkvilleCost: Free. Cne points: 3

ultimateTreadmillChallengeFollowing on from the huge success of last year’s event, Fitness energy Studio in Park orchards is again hosting the ultimate Treadmill Challenge in September to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Australia Vic. The studio will have 20 treadmills running for 24 hours from 12pm on Friday 5 September.

To find out more, visit www.fitnessenergy.com.au or call Fitness energy on (03) 9876 6800

Howdementiafriendlyisyourhome?Join us at the Lilydale Bowling Club on Thursday 11 September for a free community seminar to examine some simple and practical design solutions you can implement in your own home to create a dementia-friendly environment.

For more information or to register, phone 03 9816 5708, email vic.education@alzheimers.org.au or visit www.fightdementia.org.au/vic

national Dementia helpline 1800 100 500 fightdementia.org.au/vic 15 14 The MeMoRy MATTeRs iSSue 113 WINTeR 2014

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I would like to find out more about making a bequest to Alzheimer’s Australia Vic I have already included a gift to Alzheimer’s Australia Vic in my Will

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Donations of $2 or more to Alzheimer’s Australia Vic are tax deductible.

Please send your donation to: For more information contact:Locked Bag 3001, Telephone 03 9815 7800 Hawthorn 3122 Facsimile 03 9815 7801

Improving the lives of people with dementia is important to me.

if you are interested in raising funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s Australia Vic visit www.everydayhero.com.au/event/communityfundraiseAlzVic

16 The MeMoRy MATTeRs iSSue 113 WINTeR 2014

For a confidential discussion or more information, please call Natalie on 03 9815 5776.

A bequest can change her future.