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, Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, to unpack what’s new, why it’s so important, and how it could change the landscape of dementia care in Australia.

Tune in to learn about:

• The purpose and vision of the National Dementia Action Plan 2024-2034
• The 8 high-level actions in the Plan and what they mean in practice
• How the Plan addresses stigma, equity, and human rights
• The role of workforce development and building capability in care services
• How research and data will drive innovation and better policy
• What it means for people living with dementia, their families, and carers
• How progress will be measured over the next decade

If you work in aged care, health, research, or support someone with dementia, this episode matters.

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 Pauline Crameri, coordinator of Val’s LGBTI Ageing & Aged Care, and Yashi explore what inclusive LGBTQ+ dementia care might look like. They discuss a range of aspects that may be experienced by LGBTQ+ people living with dementia and why understanding identity, history, lived experiences, and cultural safety makes a difference and how care providers can best support LGBTQ+ Australians living with dementia.

Tune in to learn about:

· The key components of LGBTQ+ inclusive dementia care

· Why identity, respect, and psychological safety matter in aged care settings

· Common challenges LGBTQ+ older people face when accessing care

· Strategies to build trust and create safe, welcoming environments

· Practical tips for support workers and care teams

· How inclusive care benefits individuals, families, and the broader community

If you work in aged care or support an LGBTQ+ older person, this episode is a must-listen.

Suggested reading: Protecting the dignity of older LGBTQ+ Australians, Australian Ageing Agenda. We Are Still Gay: An evidence-based resource exploring the experiences and needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans Australians living with dementia (also available in the DREAM Resource Library)

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 healing benefits of nature for people with dementia

· Features of outdoor environments that have therapeutic impact for people living with dementia

· Designing safe and accessible outdoor spaces

· Encouraging activity and social connection outdoors

· Cultural and seasonal considerations in outdoor design

If you work in aged care, respite, or support someone living with dementia, this episode will give you fresh inspiration and practical ideas.

Here you can find links to training, and general information about the Venture Out Living lab and Nature Hubs project.

https://ventureout.dementia.utas.edu.au/

Recruiting people living in Tasmania for our research! If you live with dementia, or are a care-partner, and you love being in nature please get in touch: Venture.Out@utas.edu.au

If you have a story to tell about connecting to nature, you might like to contribute to our sister project, the Nature Connection Storytelling Project: https://thenatureconnectionproject.com.au/