News

Almost twelve months on from opening, the Specialist Dementia Care Program at Simpkin House is making a meaningful difference for people living with dementia and their families. 

Rose’s father, Georg, who is living with dementia and is nonverbal, was referred to Simpkin House due to complex behavioural and care needs that could not be supported in his previous aged care home. 

Georg was the first person to transition out of the program, returning home to Albury within six months - earlier than the expected 12. 

Rose said the care he received was unlike anything he had experienced before. 

"There he had more one-on-one care. He was always attended to," she said. "Having the same nurses made a big difference." 

The team focused on understanding Georg as a person, not just managing symptoms - identifying triggers and adapting care to suit his needs. 

"It was more about understanding him. They didn’t just assume he needed more medication - sometimes it was just changing how things were done. 

"We knew he was safe and in good hands." 

Director of Nursing at the Gibson Street Complex, Suzie McNamara, said the model of care is built on strong, consistent relationships. 

"This model supports staff to get to know each person, set goals, and work towards these together. Strong, trusting relationships develop between residents and staff," she said. 

The program provides a dedicated, specialist environment for people who can’t be supported in mainstream aged care due to the severity of their symptoms. In its first year, 12 people and their families have used the program, many of whom would otherwise have had to travel to Melbourne or interstate to access specialist care. 

Two residents have transitioned to their preferred aged care home, and three have received palliative care during their stay. 

Staff, residents and families recently celebrated the 1st birthday of the program.