Voices in DREAM

In today’s episode, Inge-Marie, a DREAM Dementia Support Coach, talks with Yashi about a scenario where an older person living with dementia suddenly becomes tearful or angry without a clear cause. This episode is part of our navigating changing behaviours in people living with dementia series, where we dive into real-life behavioural shifts and share practical strategies to help caregivers respon...

In today’s episode, Julie, one of our past DREAM Dementia Support Coaches, talks with Yashi about a scenario where a usually easy-going older person living with dementia begins showing subtle signs of confusion and agitation. This episode is part of our navigating changing behaviours in people living with dementia series, where we dive into real-life behavioural shifts and share practical strategi...

Welcome to Season 2 of Voices in DREAM, where we explore real-life case scenarios involving changing behaviours in people living with dementia. Guided by experienced Dementia Support Coaches, this series offers practical strategies, reassurance, and compassionate support to help care providers navigate the challenges of dementia care with confidence and empathy.  Together with DREAM Coaches, we un...

Did you know that every piece of progress we make in dementia care, from understanding risk factors to improving support for families, is shaped by research, and often by people living with dementia and the community? In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Yashi speaks with Distinguished Professor Emeritus James Vickers, recent past Director of the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre (2018...

What role do volunteers play in aged care in Australia? According to the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, volunteers are an essential part of the aged care system, contributing to positive outcomes such as increases in health and wellness and social connectedness . In this special episode of the Voices in DREAM podcast, recognising National Volunteer Week, volunteer Patricia shares her...

Did you know that in December 2024 the Australian Government launched a 10-year National Dementia Action Plan? This isn’t just a policy document, it’s a roadmap for improving diagnosis, care, support, research, and community understanding for people living with dementia and their carers. In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Yashi sits down with Distinguished Professor Emeritus James Vickers, Wickin...

Did you know that LGBTQ+ inclusive care isn’t just a nice-to-have, but a vital part of effective dementia services? Providing care that is affirming and respectful of sexuality, gender identity and gender expression, and understand and meets the needs of each person, improves comfort, trust, emotional wellbeing, and care outcomes for people living with dementia and their families. In this episode...

Did you know that access to nature isn’t just nice to have but is vital for all people, especially for those living with dementia? Nature can reduce agitation, improve mood, and encourage movement.    In this episode, Dr Pauline Marsh, Senior Lecturer in Dementia Studies, and Yashi discuss how outdoor design can creates therapeutic, dementia-friendly spaces.   Tune in to learn about ·         The...

Did you know palliative care isn’t just for the final days of life? For people living with dementia, it plays a vital role throughout the condition, supporting comfort, dignity, communication, and quality of life. In this episode of Voices in DREAM , Yashi and Tiffany, an experienced nurse from Palliative Care Victoria, explore how dementia and palliative care are closely connected. We discuss whe...

Did you know that many families don’t realise when palliative care begins for a loved one with dementia? Yet early, compassionate conversations can bring comfort, clarity, and peace to everyone involved. In this episode, Yashi, and Tiffany , an experienced Nurse from Palliative Care Victoria, explore how dementia and palliative care pathways connect, and how aged care workers, nurses, and support...

Did you know that color and contrast can make or break how safe and welcoming a care environment feels? For people with dementia, high-contrast design supports depth perception, safety, and orientation.   In this episode, Dr Sun and Yashi explore how the thoughtful use of colour can transform dementia care spaces.  Tune in to learn about ·         Why contrast matters for people living with dement...

Did you know that tailored care approaches in residential care homes can significantly improve the quality of life for people living with dementia? When care teams understand their unique needs and preferences, residents feel safer, more engaged, and more respected. In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Annie shares her experience of working in dementia respite care. She talks about how she builds t...

Did you know that a residential care home doesn’t have to feel institutional? Personal touches, familiar objects, and warm design can be used to transform rooms into comforting spaces that support memory and dignity.   In this episode, Dr Jo Sun and Yashi discuss the importance of creating personalised, familiar, and dementia-friendly spaces in aged care facilities. Tune in to learn about:   ·   ...

Did you know that music has the power to awaken memories, reduce anxiety, and create meaningful moments for people living with dementia? Music therapy isn’t just entertainment; it’s a proven approach that improves well-being and strengthens relationships between individuals, families, and care providers. In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Dr. Brendan Lamb, a lecturer in Creative Arts and Health,...

Did you know that supporting someone to do things for themselves instead of doing it for them can boost their confidence, maintain dignity, and improve their overall wellbeing? That’s the power of reablement. In this episode, Dr Claire O’Connor joins Yashi to explore how reablement supports older adults to maintain or regain their independence through meaningful, everyday tasks. Dr Claire O'C...

What is it really like to access overnight respite care for the first time? In this heartfelt episode of Voices in DREAM, we sit down with Sharon to hear her and her mother’s powerful story of experiencing overnight respite care for the very first time. Sharon’s mum, who was living with dementia, faced uncertainty and vulnerability during this major transition. Sharon shares her emotional journey,...

Did you know that successful respite care for people living with dementia relies just as much on how we support the carers and support workers as it does on the care itself? Empowered, well-informed carers can make all the difference in creating a safe, calm, and enriching respite experience. In this episode of Voices in DREAM , we explore practical, person-centred strategies for both support work...

Did you know that strong teamwork in aged care settings can lead to better outcomes for people living with dementia, especially during short-term respite stays? When staff support one another, care becomes more consistent, compassionate, and person-centred. In this episode of Voices in DREAM we’re joined by Emmanuel, an experienced aged care worker who shares practical strategies for building a su...

Did you know that dementia care in respite settings requires a unique approach to help both the person living with dementia and their caregivers adjust, feel safe, and thrive during short stays?  In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Michelle, a Dementia Nurse Consultant, shares her expert insights on how dementia care in respite settings differs from long-term care. She explains the challenges, the...

Did you know that just a few days of respite care can help family caregivers feel more rested, less stressed, and more connected to the people they’re caring for? In this episode of Voices in DREAM Sharon shares her personal story of caring for her mum, Janet, who lived with vascular dementia. From the early signs and diagnosis to discovering respite care and the real impact it had on both their l...

Did you know that thoughtfully designed environments can reduce anxiety, improve safety, and support independence for people living with dementia - especially in short-term respite care settings. In today’s episode of Voices in DREAM , Yashi welcomes Bridgette, an advocate for dementia friendly environmental design. Bridgette shares practical insights on how small but meaningful environmental chan...

Did you know that support workers play a key role not just in providing care, but in helping residents living with dementia stay socially connected through shared activities. With the right support, these moments of connection can boost confidence, reduce isolation, and bring real joy to daily life.  Listen now to John’s inspiring story, full of practical ideas and activities you can use or encour...

Did you know that support workers are often the quiet heroes behind positive dementia care, helping residents feel safe, understood, and truly connected to their community. In today’s episode of Voices in DREAM , we meet Sarah, a passionate and experienced support worker who plays a vital role in both respite and residential dementia care. From tailored activities to team collaboration and deep em...

Did you know that meaningful activities and social connections are essential for people living with dementia. They help support independence, boost mood, and reduce feelings of isolation. Support workers play a crucial role in creating these opportunities every day.  Yashi speaks with John again today, and continues his inspiring story full of practical ideas and activities you can use in your age...

Did you know that community respite care is essential for supporting the wellbeing of people living with dementia by helping them stay connected, engaged, and comfortable during short stays away from home? In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Emmanuel, an experienced support worker in community respite, shares practical insights on providing effective dementia support. He discusses what quality com...