The Margaret River Dementia Friendly Community project marked the launch of a new collection of books at the Margaret River Library last month.
Dementia Friendly Communities are places where people living with dementia are supported to live a high quality life with meaning, purpose and value.
The books are just one aspect of the project, which is gathering momentum within the Shire.
Funding for the project was provided by the Margaret River Rotary Club and the Margaret River Lions Club.
Local coordinator Joan Hutchings thanked the clubs, and other supporters, for their efforts.
"Our Shire, represented by Katie Taylor, has also been enthusiastic and supportive of the initiative," Mrs Hutchings said.
"AlzheimersWA has been responsible for all of the education sessions that have already been held and are still to happen.
"I would like to acknowledge Layla Riley, who is the Alzheimers WA project manager. Layla has held it all together and kept it moving forward so efficiently.
"Since the project began, two education lectures have been held at the Margaret River Recreation Centre with 30 people in attendance.
"The Shire has had several sessions relevant to areas such as planning and customer service.
"Pamphlets have been distributed to businesses in town to highlight how their staff can provide help to people needing their services.
"Four primary schools in Margaret River, as well as the high school, have received books for their libraries."
Mrs Hutchings said the Margaret River Hospital reached out for support in caring for people living with dementia.
"Two days of education are planned for all clinical staff at the hospital as well as the ancillary staff in September," she said.
"The next step is to develop a community space where people living with dementia and their families can find support and socialise in a suitable environment."
"Anyone who would like to be supported or offer support is welcome. The meeting will give the community a chance to let us know what they need, and for us to try and make it happen."
The first meeting is to be held at the Margaret River District Club on Tuesday August 13 at 9.30am, refreshments provided.
Nicky Lefebvre
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
