The need for high-quality respite care has never been greater. Close to 150,000 Australians care for a family member living with dementia at home and as our population ages this number will only increase.  

The Dementia Respite Education and Mentoring (DREAM) program is specifically designed to equip the aged care workforce with the latest skills and knowledge needed to provide expert respite care, tailored to the individual needs of people living with dementia and carers. 

Across the sector there’s been an increase in the number of providers offering dementia respite care through programs like the Staying At Home program. With DREAM, we’re partnering with the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, to offer targeted learning and development opportunities to the aged care workforce.  

Known globally for advancing understanding of all dementias, including rarer dementias such as Frontotemporal Dementia and Lewy Body Dementia, Wicking is an ideal partner for delivering an educational program for the aged care workforce on respite care.  

DREAM is a free online portal that provides: 

• integrated online learning and professional development of aged care workers in respite settings; 

• additional learning support materials and opportunities for extended learning; 

• engagement in an online community of practice; 

• on-the-ground mentoring; and 

• rapid response and tailored support to teams providing respite care. 

By empowering aged care workers with the tools and knowledge they need, DREAM enhances the capability of providers to deliver quality respite care, including smooth transitions in and out of respite. This not only improves the overall respite care experience but fosters a culture of shared insights and continuous improvement among colleagues. 

Learn more here.