ACTs Dementia Health Experts Network was established early 2024 with the purpose of co-designing an evidence-based health system for people experiencing Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD).
ACT’s population is ageing and growing with dementia being the leading cause of death (ABS). Almost 6,100 people are living with dementia with forecasts doubling this number over 3 decades (Dementia Australia). The 2022-23 funding impact for admitted hospital care is estimated at $23.3 million, increasing to between $32.5 to $38.0 million by 2040-41. Dementia behaviours such as agitation, aggression, delusions, hallucinations, and paranoia, can lead to crises, hospital emergency department visits, and long stays in hospital. The objective of this work is to:
- reduce unnecessary emergency presentations
- reduce prolonged hospital stays
- identify alternative care settings that promote independence and quality of life.
In addition to activity data analysis, interviews with health professionals and a scoping study, the lived experiences were captured through a carer-led, human-centered design methodology. This approach included co-design workshops, interviews, surveys, and stakeholder engagement to capture the dementia care journey from the carer’s perspective. This highlighted four key priorities personalised navigation service, BPSD specific respite on-demand, crisis support on-demand, and a hub for specialist dementia care, research, and innovation, providing support for the most complex cases.
This project lays the foundation for a future where dementia care is compassionate, inclusive and effective, meeting the needs of patients and carers while reducing pressure on hospital systems. This approach represents a transformative step forward in dementia care.
