Supporting people living with Dementia, families and caregivers
If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with Dementia.
This website offers easy-to-follow information for each stage of the journey - from understanding the diagnosis to finding local supports, planning ahead and living well.
Click on the topic links below for more information
Dementia Australia
The Dementia Australia website offers a wide range of information, resources, support services, educational materials and support for people living with Dementia, their families and carers.
Phone: 1800 100 500
For language assistance phone 131 450
Click here for more information from Dementia Australia
Dementia Australia in your language
Click here for other languages |Dementia Australia
Dementia Support Australia (understanding changed behaviours)
Provides 24hr free, nationwide support for people living with dementia and their carers.
- Helping understand and manage changed behaviours.
- Connect with support services.
- Providing information and resources.
Phone: 1800 699 799
Click here for more information from Dementia Support Australia
Dementia Friendly Communities
GET INVOLVED. Help your community become Dementia Friendly.
Click here to get involved Dementia-Friendly Communities | Dementia Australia
Resources
Hold the Moment Podcast: Where to from here and dealing with a Dementia Diagnosis. Listen to others who have been diagnosed with Dementia.
Click here for Hold the Moment Podcast Where to from here? Dementia Australia
The Dementia Guide by Dementia Australia is a comprehensive resource designed to support people living with dementia, their carers and families. It provides detailed information and practical advice across various stages of the dementia journey.
Online Version
Click here for The Dementia Guide | Dementia Australia (Online PDF Version)
Audio Version
Click here for The Dementia Guide | Dementia Australia (Audio Version)
Order Printed copy
Click here for The Dementia Guide | Dementia Australia (Order Printed Copy)
New Guide to support Australians impacted by younger onset dementia
Click here for The Younger Onset Dementia Guide | Dementia Australia
Both people living with dementia and their carers face challenges that can affect physical, emotional and mental well-being.
For people with Dementia
Stay Independent: Daily routine helps maintain dignity and control.
Increase well-being: Activities, social time and rest.
Stay Healthy: Good nutrition, hydration and exercise is essential.
For Carers
Avoid burnout: regular breaks and supports are crucial.
Look after yourself: eat well, stay active and rest.
Stay Connected: Talk to others, join support groups and don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed.
RESOURCES
To help you look after yourself
MindCare Collective
MindCare Collective has launched a new animation series, Your Brain Health Matters: 5 Ways to Lower Dementia Risk, now available in 10 Languages. The short animation share five simple and practical ways people can support their brain health and help lower their risk of Dementia.
Languages: Arabic, Cantonese, English, Greek, Hindi, Italian, Mandarin, Spanish, Tamil and Vietnamese.
Click here for mindcare.org.au/preventing-dementia/watch-animated-stories
NSW Health – free phone and online health coaching.
Click here for Get Healthy NSW
Active and Heathy - find exercise programs near you, learn about falls prevention and nutritional tips.
Click here for NSW Health - Active and Healthy
Black Dog Institute – an online easy read tool for building good mental health.
Click here for Black Dog Institute healthymind.org.au
Smiling Mind – Lifelong mental fitness for everyone.
Click here for Smiling Mind
Liveup - your path to Healthy Ageing | expert tips and guides.
Click here for Your Path to Healthy Ageing | Expert Tips and Guides | LiveUp
Books for Carers
Dementia Australia Library
Click here for Dementia Australia Library | Dementia Australia
Sutherland Shire Library - How to care for someone with dementia, prevention and some resources to help one engage with those living with dementia.
Click here for “Dementia support" | Sutherland Library Catalogue
“Staying active and on your feet” (NSW Health)
Free PDF guide promoting fall prevention, strength, and balance for older people.
Click here for Staying active and on your feet
There are many known types of dementia, each with distinctive characteristics and causes.
The most common types are:
Alzheimer’s Disease
Click here for Alzheimer's disease: everything you need to know | Dementia Australia
Vascular Dementia
Click here for Vascular dementia | Dementia Australia
Frontotemporal Dementia
Click here for Frontotemporal dementia | Dementia Australia
Lewy Body Disease
Click here for Lewy body dementias | Dementia Australia
Telling your family and friends about your dementia diagnosis can be difficult. You might need some time to come to terms with the news yourself before you talk to anyone.
The better that people around you understand what you’re experiencing, the better support they can give you.
Click here for telling people about your diagnosis | Dementia Australia
Resources for family and friends
Click here for Dementia in my family | Dementia Australia
Click here for talking to someone with dementia | Dementia Australia
Click here for Carer Handbook for Understanding Changed Behaviours
Inform your Employer
Informing your employer about your Dementia diagnosis can be difficult. It is natural to feel anxious and uncertain about how to approach this conversation.
By being honest and transparent, you can help your employer understand your situation and provide the support you need during this time.
Click here to tell your employer about your diagnosis of dementia
Click here for sharing the dementia diagnosis with your employer(s)
For family members and carers
There are employment laws in Australia to support carers in the workforce. These laws include the requirement for employers to provide flexible working arrangements, as well as carers and compassionate leave.
There are also federal anti-discrimination laws that protect carers against discrimination based on caring responsibilities.
Click here for your rights at work | Carer Gateway
Legal planning and Financial Planning are crucial for individuals with Dementia and their families. Legal systems have measures to protect individuals with dementia from exploitation.
Here are some key points to consider:
Legal Capacity
It is important for you to assess your ability to understand and appreciate the consequence of your actions when signing legal documents. This often requires a professional evaluation. (Neurologist, Geriatrician, Legal professional)
Consult a lawyer who specialises in elder law or estate planning to get personal advice.
General Power of Attorney or Enduring Power of Attorney
Is a legal document that allows you to appoint one or more persons to make legal and financial decisions on your behalf.
A General Power of Attorney allows the appointed parties to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf for a specific period or under certain circumstances.
Typically used for short-term needs.
It ceases to be effective if you lose the ability to make decisions on your own.
An Enduring Power of Attorney remains in effect even if you lose the ability to make decisions.
It provides trusted person (s) with the authority to manage your legal and financial affairs indefinitely.
Resources
Further information and steps to creating a Power of Attorney.
NSW Trustee and Guardian Wills
Phone: 1300 109 290
Monday to Friday from 9am – 5pm
Click here for making a Power of Attorney | NSW Government
Guardianship or Enduring Guardianship
Is a legal document that allows you to appoint one or more persons to make decisions about your health, living arrangements and personal matters.
Guardianship is typically established by a court when someone has not arranged an enduring guardianship and no longer has the ability to make decisions.
Enduring Guardianship is set up by you while you still have the capacity to do so. It enables you to make decisions on your health care, living arrangements and personal matters.
For more detailed information on Enduring Guardianship, you can:
Click here for Enduring Guardianship for end of life planning | NSW Government
Click here for NSW Trustee and Guardian | NSW Government
In home services play a vital role in the care of individuals living with dementia. These services not only enhance quality of life but also provide safety, comfort and dignity in familiar surroundings.
Below you will find information and services for person diagnosed with Dementia for over 65, under 65 and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
My Aged Care Services for over 65
My Aged Care is an Australian Government Service to help you find out what aged care services may be available to help you.
If you are getting older and need help at home, or if you are caring for someone who does, My Aged Care provides information you need to know to start planning and talking about aged care.
My Aged Care provides information you need to know to start planning and talking about aged care.
My aged care provides information on services , assessments, fees and referrals to access local services.
Click here to access Australian aged care information and services | My Aged Care
How to Navigate Aged Care Services for Dementia Support
My Aged Care is an Australian Government’s hub for aged care services.
You can access services via:
Phone: 1800 200 422
Or Online
Click here to apply for an aged care assessment online | My Aged Care
Or you can arrange a face-to-face appointment with an Aged Care Specialist Officer at Service Australia.
Phone: 1800 227 475 to book an appointment
This is a free service available at the Sutherland Service Australia office.
- Providing in-depth information supporting you to navigate My Aged Care journey.
- Appointing a representative for My Aged Care and Centrelink.
- Checking your eligibility for government funded service.
- Making referral for an aged care assessment or review.
- Providing financial information about aged care services.
- Connect you with local support services.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for under 65
If you have been diagnosed with dementia before the age of 65, you may be eligible for support through NDIS. Dementia is recognised as a disability under the NDIS and the program provides funding to help individuals maintain independence, achieve personal goals and stay connected to their communities.
Click here for more information on National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
How to Navigate NDIS for Dementia Support
You can apply in several ways:
Phone: 1800 800 110
Or Online
Click here for instructions on how to apply | NDIS
Or you can arrange a face-to-face appointment with a Local Area Coordinator (LAC)
Click here for local area coordination partners | NDIS
Support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people for over 50
If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person, 50 years or older you may be eligible to apply for My Aged Care.
Click here for more information on Support for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders | My Aged Care
How to Navigate Aged Care Services for Dementia Support
My Aged Care is an Australian Government’s hub for aged care services.
You can access services via:
Phone: 1800 200 422
Or Online
Click here to apply for an aged care assessment online | My Aged Care
Or you can arrange a face-to-face appointment with an Aged Care Specialist Officer at Service Australia.
Phone: 1800 227 475 to book an appointment
Support group and services are essential for individuals affected by dementia, including persons with diagnosis of dementia, families and their caregivers. These resources promote emotional and social well-being by encouraging connection, reduce feelings of isolation and offering practical support. By providing a safe space to share experience and access guidance to help improve quality of life and foster resilience for everyone involved.
Local Health Support
Geriatrician
Phone: (02) 9540 7109
Email: SESLHD-Geris@health.nsw.gov.au
Address: 125 Kareena Rd, Miranda
Click here for Southcare Geriatricians Outpatients | South Eastern Sydney Local Health District
Neurologist
Neurology Outpatient Clinic
Phone: (02) 9540 7067
Email: SESLHD-TSH-Outpatients@health.nsw.gov.au
Address: The Sutherland Hospital Cnr Kingsway & Kareena Rd Level 2 Outpatient Department.
Click here for Neurology Outpatient Clinic | South Eastern Sydney Local Health District
Find a Neurologist
Click here for Neurologists in Sutherland NSW 2232 | HealthShare
Find a GP
Click here for GP (General practice) in Sutherland, NSW 2232 | healthdirect
Local Support Services
Sutherland Shire Seniors Directory
We want all people in Sutherland Shire to live vibrant, healthy, active, and happy lives as they age. This directory ensures people can access information to help them remain independent, engaged, and included.
For Home Care Program Packages click the Directory Link below – Go to pages 7 to 19
For Nursing Homes click the Directory Link below – go to page 52
Click here to view Seniors Services Directory
Commonwealth Home Support Programs (CHSP)
Anglicare Dementia Advisory
Phone: 1300 111 227
Baptist Care
Phone: 1300 275 227
The Salvation Army Aged Care
Phone: 1300 111 227
Support Groups
Sutherland Shire Council Carer Cafés (Sutherland)
Meeting in-person on the first Monday of each month, Connection Café helps to connect people living with dementia and memory concerns. Whether you're swapping stories over a cuppa or playing a game of cards, Connection Café gives those living with dementia and their care partners the opportunity to socialise and share experiences in a safe space.
Sutherland Library 30 – 36 Belmont St Sutherland NSW 2232
First Monday of the monthly 10.30am – 12pm
Phone: (02) 0710 0351
Orana's Dementia Carers Friendship Group (Sutherland)
A free support group for carers every 2nd Tuesday of the month. Come and talk or listen with others over a cuppa, in a safe space.
Orana Sutherland - 3a Stapleton Ave Sutherland NSW 2232
Second Tuesday of the Month 10am – 12pm
Phone: (02) 9521 8280
Anglicare Connections Café (Gymea)
Are you a person living with dementia, or you are someone experiencing cognitive changes and not sure what to do? Or you are a family carer or friend of a person living with dementia and you need some assistance? If you are looking to connect with other people in similar circumstances or need information and advice from our Dementia Advisor, then please join our Connections Café at Gymea Miranda Bowling & Sports Club.
My Aged Care referral is needed and booking is required.
Venue: Gymea Miranda Bowling & Sports Club, Kingsway, Gymea NSW, Australia
For more information contact:
Phone: 1300 111 278
Jannali Carer Connect
A monthly group for carers of people living with Dementia aiming to provide information and support to carers.
Phone: 1300 111 278
Memory Lane Cafe - Gymea Bay
Meet with others who can provide friendship and support while enjoying some entertainment and light refreshments.
You will also have the opportunity to chat with our trained staff and volunteers from Dementia Australia.
Suitable for people living with a diagnosis of dementia, their family and friends.
Gymea Bay Community & Recreation Centre. 2 Avenel Rd, Gymea Bay NSW 2227
Tuesday October 6 & Tuesday November 24
For more information and bookings call Simone on 0482 186 517 or email NSW.memorylanecafe@dementia.org.au
Dementia Group Homes
Videri Australia
At Videri Australia, we do dementia differently. We create small household environments within local communities, where residents can cherish life's moments and live well with Dementia.
We offer 24/7 care with flexible respite, long-term stays and end of life care.
Videri Australia Retreats
Our 5-day government funded retreat provides people in the early stages of dementia and their support partner hope beyond diagnosis.
Phone: 1300 015 406
Caring for someone with dementia can be a meaningful journey, but it often comes with emotional and physical demands. You may occasionally need a break or some time to yourself, or with friends and family.
When you do there are supports available:
Carer Gateway is an Australian government initiative that provides free services and support for carers, including those caring for someone with dementia.
Carer Gateway offers tailored services to support carers of people with dementia.
You can call to check eligibility
Phone: 1800 422 737
Or Online
Click here for services and support through Carer Gateway
REMIplay
Game-based Learning for Dementia Care
- Dementia Training Australia -REMIplay™, is a free, interactive online training game designed to help carers build confidence and practical skills in supporting people living with dementia.
- Accessible anytime, anywhere on devices, REMIplay™ uses short, real-life scenarios that allow learners to safely practise their skills alongside Remi the Wombat, who provides guidance and best-practice dementia care tips throughout the experience.
- This free resource may be a useful addition to workforce training and professional development activities.
Click here for REMIplay™| Dementia Training Australia (DTA)
Local Carer Support Groups
Sutherland Shire Council Carer Cafés (Sutherland)
Meeting in-person on the first Monday of each month, Connection Café helps to connect people living with dementia and memory concerns. Whether you're swapping stories over a cuppa or playing a game of cards, Connection Café gives those living with dementia and their care partners the opportunity to socialise and share experiences in a safe space.
Sutherland Library 30 – 36 Belmont St Sutherland NSW 2232
First Monday of the monthly 10.30am – 12pm
Phone: (02) 9710 0351
Orana's Dementia Carers Friendship Group (Sutherland)
A free support group for carers every 2nd Tuesday of the month. Come and talk or listen with others over a cuppa, in a safe space.
Orana Sutherland - 3a Stapleton Ave Sutherland NSW 2232
Second Tuesday of the Month 10am – 12pm
Phone: (02) 9521 8280
Memory Lane Cafe - Gymea Bay
Meet with others who can provide friendship and support while enjoying some entertainment and light refreshments.
You will also have the opportunity to chat with our trained staff and volunteers from Dementia Australia.
Suitable for people living with a diagnosis of dementia, their family and friends.
Gymea Bay Community & Recreation Centre. 2 Avenel Rd, Gymea Bay NSW 2227
Tuesday October 6 & Tuesday November 24
For more information and bookings call Simone on 0482 186 517 or email NSW.memorylanecafe@dementia.org.au
Anglicare Connections Café (Gymea)
Are you a person living with dementia, or you are someone experiencing cognitive changes and not sure what to do? Or you are a family carer or friend of a person living with dementia and you need some assistance? If you are looking to connect with other people in similar circumstances or need information and advice from our Dementia Advisor.
Please join our Connections Café at Gymea Miranda Bowling & Sports Club.
My Aged Care referral is needed and booking is required.
Venue: Gymea Miranda Bowling & Sports Club, Kingsway, Gymea NSW, Australia
For more information contact:
Phone: 1300 111 278
Baptist Care Refresh Retreats
Retreats offer an opportunity for person living with dementia and their carer to participate in a shared respite experience that promotes health and wellbeing.
Phone: 1300 275 227
Jannali Carer Connect
A monthly group for carers of people living with Dementia aiming to provide information and support to carers.
Phone: 1300 111 278
Dementia Advisory Services
HammondCare Dementia Advisory Service – Sutherland/St George
Free support and advice for families living with dementia.
Phone: 1800 826 166
Your Side St George & Sutherland Dementia Advisory
One-on-one help navigated dementia Support Options
Phone: 1300 134 332
Supporting a person with dementia means designing an environment that feels safe, supportive and empowering.
A Safer Home
- Keep furniture and layouts consistent to reduce confusion
- Remove hazards like loose rugs and sharp tools
- Use clear labels on doors and cabinets for easy navigation
- Add night lights and safety gadgets live stove shut offs and smoke detectors
Prevent Wandering
- Use ID bracelets with key details
- Install door chimes or sensors
- Personal Alarms -consider a GPS device for added peace of mind
Enhance Comfort
- Equip bathrooms with non-slip mats, handrails and shower seats
- Choose sturdy, easy-to-use chairs
Support emotional wellbeing
- Stick to familiar routines and display treasured objects for familiarity
- Provide memory aids like large clocks and calendars
- Include calming activities – music, photos or gardening
Dementia Shops
The Dementia Shop Australia
Click here for Dementia Shop Australia | Products, Activities & Toys
The Independence Shop
Click here for Dementia Memory Aids | Keeping the mind active | Aids for dementia – The Independence Shop
Personal Alarms
VitalCall
Click here for VitalCALL - Personal Emergency Response
Live Life Alarms
Click here for Live Life Alarm Mobile Personal Medical Alarm Pendant
Free Next of Kin Program
The Next of Kin program helps people living alone to have contact details of their nominated person recorded at the local police station. This person will be contact n case of an emergency.
Click here for Next of Kin Form
You can contact your local police station and ask to speak with the Crime Prevention Officer about the Next of Kin Program.
When people are diagnosed with dementia, they do not automatically lose their licence.
Driving with dementia in Australia is subject to strict regulations aimed at balancing road safety with individual independence.
Key Considerations:
- Memory
- Attention
- Visuospatial Awareness
- Insight and Judgement
Because of these impairments, individuals diagnosed with dementia may struggle with task like navigating, reacting quickly, and making safe decisions on the road.
As of August 2025, Australia is implementing nationwide rules for senior drivers, including those with dementia.
Mandatory Medical Assessment
At age 70 Medical fitness test every 2 years
From age 75 Annual medical reviews
Dementia Diagnosis - Assessments must be conducted by a GP or specialist
Seniors MUST report a new diagnosis of Dementia.
A fitness to drive assessment will need to be completed.
Click here for getting a medical assessment for Fitness to Drive | NSW Government
Click here for Dementia and driving as part of National Road Safety Week
Car insurance you may still be covered for car insurance even if you have been diagnosed with dementia, however, it is important to contact your insurer to determine if there are any conditions and responsibilities to be aware of.
Alternate Transport
For many giving up a licence feels like you are giving up your independence, however, there are several options to get out and about.
Taxi Subsidy Schemes
This is a government funded taxi subsidy for people who cannot drive due to medical conditions like dementia.
Phone: 131 500
Click here to apply for the Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme | Service NSW
Community Transport Services
Partly funded by federal and state government, these services use cars or small buses to help with:
Medical Appointments – Social Outings – Shopping – Exercise Classes
They are part of the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP).
Sutherland Local Community Transport Service:
Activus Transport
Phone: (02) 8555 8000
Or online
Click here for Activus Transport | Door to door with care
NDIS or My Aged Care Packages
If you’re receiving support through
- National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
- Home Care Package (My Aged Care)
You may be eligible for:
- Cabcharge Card
- Transport Vouchers
Long term care planning is important for ensuring that you receive the necessary support and services as hey aged or face health challenges. Knowing that a plan is in place for future care needs provides peace of mind for both yourself and your family and carers.
Health Planning
Advanced Care Directive
Advance care planning involves planning for your future health care. It enables you to make some decisions now about the health care you would or would not like to receive when you are unable to communicate your preferences or make treatment decisions.
You can call the National Advanced Care Planning Support Service on:
Phone: 1300 208 582 Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm (AEST)
Phone: 13 14 50 Interpreter Services
or email acpa@advancedcareplanning.org.au
Resources on Advance Care Planning
Click here for more information on advance care planning
Click here for making an advanced care directive - form and information booklet
Voting and Dementia
Click here for information on voting with dementia in Australia | Dementia Australia
Respite and Residential Care
Planning for respite and permanent care is essential to ensure your well-being and for the well-being of carers.
Respite can provide short-term/temporary relief for caregivers, reducing stress and preventing burnout, while offering structured activities and social interactions for the person with dementia.
Emergency Respite
Permanent Care offers a stable environment with specialised care that may become necessary as dementia progresses. Early planning and discussions helps respect your wishes and allows for exploring options and manage financial aspects.
Resources
Click here for more information on respite and residential care | Dementia Australia
You can also visit My Aged Care Find a Provider tool that helps you find more aged care service
Click her to find a provider | My Aged Care
Insurances
Diseases related to dementia are often associated with older people and, for this reason, are not commonly thought of as conditions that lead to TPD (Total & Permanent Disability) income protection or trauma insurance claims. However, the reality is that many people suffer from dementia symptoms, most commonly due to Alzheimer’s disease, whilst they are still working. These people are almost always entitled to claim insurance entitlements such as TPD benefits, income protection, and even trauma insurance benefits due to dementia (no matter what the actual cause) if they are forced to cease work.
Check with your Insurance Companies to be sure of what your policy entitles you to. Check all forms of insurance including:
- Life Insurance
- Disability Insurance
- Car Insurance
End of life planning involves making decisions and documenting your preferences for medical care, financial care and personal wishes for your final days. This planning ensures that your desires are respected and reduces the burden on your loved ones during difficult times.
Click for planning for end of life | NSW Government
Palliative Care
Palliative Care is a specialised form of medical care focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of serious illnesses. Its primary goal is to improve the quality of life for both the patient and their family.
Palliative Care can be provided in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, at home, and in residential care facilities.
Click here for information on palliative care NSW
Click here for Sutherlands supportive and palliative care Service | South Eastern Sydney Local Health District
Bereavement Support
Bereavement support is important because losing someone you love can be very hard. Talking to someone or joinging a support group can help you feel less alone. It gives you a safe space to share your feelings and find comfort.
Click here for bereavement support | South Eastern Sydney Local Health District
Digital Legacy
Just like you plan for your belongings after death, you can plan your online presence – this is your “digital legacy”
Click here for what happens to your digital accounts after you die | eSafety Commissioner
Disclaimer
Every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information at the time of publishing. However, all information is subject to change without notice. Sutherland Shire Council does not endorse or recommend any of the services and guides listed in this directory. The material within this directory is made available for general use and information purposes only. Users should use their own skill and care with respect to the use of material.
Whilst Sutherland Council attempts to ensure the accuracy and currency of all information within this directory, it is not verified information, and Council does not guarantee the accuracy and currency of the information.
Designed by the St George and Sutherland Shire Dementia Alliance and published by Sutherland Shire Council.