Dementia Friendly Woollahra

Dementia Friendly Woollahra Working together to make Woollahra more dementia inclusive.

Follow us for local dementia-friendly news, carer tips, inspiring stories and community events that support people living with dementia and their carers. Dementia Friendly Woollahra (DFW) is a local initiative led by Holdsworth in partnership with Woollahra Council and community members. Our goal is to build a more informed, compassionate and inclusive community for people living with dementia and their carers.

New research: Sleep and dementia riskA large-scale study from Monash University studied almost 90,000 people to identify...
15/06/2026

New research: Sleep and dementia risk

A large-scale study from Monash University studied almost 90,000 people to identify the best combination of sleep and physical activity for lowering dementia risk.

Key findings:
- People who sleep less than six hours a night face a higher risk of developing dementia
- For people with short sleep, adding just 30 extra minutes of sleep reduced that risk significantly
- For those already sleeping enough, increasing moderate exercise further lowered risk

Both sleep and movement matter, and both can be improved with small, practical changes.

👉 Read more: https://ap1.hubs.ly/y0ZwX90

Dementia Friendly Woollahra is proudly supported by Woollahra Council and facilitated by Holdsworth.

Type 2 diabetes is a recognised risk factor for dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. High b...
15/06/2026

Type 2 diabetes is a recognised risk factor for dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia.

High blood sugar levels over time can affect blood vessels and nerves throughout the body, including the brain. Research from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare confirms that diabetes management is an important part of reducing dementia risk.

If you have diabetes or are at risk, working with your GP to manage your blood sugar through diet, exercise and medication where needed protects both your physical and cognitive health.

Key lifestyle steps that can help:
- Reduce sugar and refined carbohydrates
- Stay physically active
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Get regular check-ups

Dementia Friendly Woollahra is proudly supported by Woollahra Council and facilitated by Holdsworth.

Dementia Friendly Woollahra is a local initiative working to make our community more inclusive for people living with de...
15/06/2026

Dementia Friendly Woollahra is a local initiative working to make our community more inclusive for people living with dementia and the people who support them.

Formed in January 2019, we bring together local businesses, community organisations, health professionals, family members and Woollahra residents to build a community where everyone feels welcome and valued.

We hold bi-monthly meetings, run campaigns and events, and work to raise awareness of dementia across the Woollahra area.

Follow this page for local events, brain health tips, research news and ways to get involved.

Dementia Friendly Woollahra is proudly supported by Woollahra Council and facilitated by Holdsworth.

Dementia care can feel overwhelming, but support is closer than you think. At Carers Network, we bring together carers, ...
10/06/2026

Dementia care can feel overwhelming, but support is closer than you think.

At Carers Network, we bring together carers, families and professionals for connection, learning, and mutual support. Here’s what you’ll experience:
- A chance to meet and bond with local carers.
- Relaxed morning tea with meaningful chats.
- Expert advice from Michelle Beaumont, Dementia Consultant and member of Dementia Friendly Woollahra.

Who is this for?
- Carers: Discover practical tips and a safe space to recharge.
- Friends/Family: Learn how to better support your loved ones.
- Health Professionals: Engage with the community and share your knowledge.

Event details:
📆 Thursday 18 June
⏲️ 10:45am - 12pm
📍 Gaden Community Centre, 334 Edgecliff Road, Woollahra
☕ FREE - Morning tea provided

RSVP: 1300 882 962
Let us support you while you support them.

Proudly supported by .

09/06/2026

Occupational Therapist Jane Corlett from War Memorial Hospital shared powerful insights about maintaining independence at home for people with dementia.

Key takeaways:
Visual perception matters:
- Use contrasting colours for handrails, toilet seats, and kitchenware
- Ensure rooms are well-lit to help the brain interpret spaces
- Declutter and remove unnecessary items

Falls prevention:
- Strength and balance exercises are crucial
- Keep pathways clear and wide

Planning ahead:
- Set up your home to manage on your "worst days"
- Habits and routines are crucial for people living with dementia
- Use assistive gadgets: calendar clocks, personal alarms, medication reminders

Jane's wisdom: "Small changes at home can make a big difference in maintaining independence and quality of life."

👉Read more: https://ap1.hubs.ly/y0GT8d0

Dementia Friendly Woollahra is proudly supported by Woollahra Council and facilitated by Holdsworth.

Nutritionists Lil Potter and Sophia Zhang shared essential guidance on eating for brain health and preventing malnutriti...
04/06/2026

Nutritionists Lil Potter and Sophia Zhang shared essential guidance on eating for brain health and preventing malnutrition in older adults.

Why nutrition matters:
As we age, metabolism slows, muscle mass decreases and nutrient needs change. For people living with dementia, malnutrition is a major risk that can worsen cognitive function.

The 5 food groups for brain health:
🥬 Fruits & Vegetables: 5 serves veggies, 2 serves fruit daily
🍞 Whole Grains: For energy and fibre
🍗 Protein: 2-3 serves daily (meat, fish, eggs, tofu, legumes)
🥛 Dairy: 3-4 serves for women, 2.5-3.5 for men (calcium & bone health)
🥑 Healthy Fats: Olive oil, nuts, avocado support brain function

Expert reminder: "Good nutrition is not just about eating, it's about eating the right foods in the right way to support brain and body health."

Dementia Friendly Woollahra is proudly supported by Woollahra Council and facilitated by Holdsworth.

One of the most encouraging messages from our Brain Health session? Falls and muscle loss aren't inevitable!Jane Corlett...
04/06/2026

One of the most encouraging messages from our Brain Health session? Falls and muscle loss aren't inevitable!
Jane Corlett's key insights:

💚 Strength & balance matter:
- Loss of muscle mass and balance can be reversed or slowed
- Consistent strength training maintains independence
- Confidence is crucial, fear of falling can increase fall risk

Simple exercises to try:
🏃‍♀️ Regular walking
🪑 Chair sit-to-stands
🧘 Balance exercises (heel-to-toe walking, tandem standing)
🎯 Resistance band work
🌳 Tai Chi or gentle yoga

Start small:
- Calf raises while brushing teeth
- Balance on one foot while waiting for the kettle
- Take the stairs when possible
- Join a local strength & balance class

Dementia Friendly Woollahra is proudly supported by Woollahra Council and facilitated by Holdsworth.

One simple but crucial tip from our nutritionists: Hydration is essential for brain function!Why it matters:- Dehydratio...
30/05/2026

One simple but crucial tip from our nutritionists: Hydration is essential for brain function!

Why it matters:
- Dehydration can mimic or worsen dementia symptoms
- Causes confusion, fatigue, and reduced cognitive function
- Older adults have reduced thirst sensation
- Many medications increase dehydration risk

Daily goal:
🥤 Aim for 6 glasses of fluid daily
🥤 More if hot weather or exercising
🥤 Water, herbal tea, diluted juice all count
🥤 Water-rich foods help too: soup, fruit and vegetables

Dementia Friendly Woollahra is proudly supported by Woollahra Council and facilitated by Holdsworth.

Stay connected, protect your brainSocial isolation was highlighted as a key modifiable risk factor.The research:- Social...
27/05/2026

Stay connected, protect your brain
Social isolation was highlighted as a key modifiable risk factor.

The research:
- Social isolation increases dementia risk by 26%
- Loneliness is linked to approximately 60% increased risk
- People who are lonely often develop dementia 5 years earlier

Why connection matters for brain health:
- Stimulates multiple brain areas
- Reduces stress and inflammation
- Builds cognitive reserve
- Provides emotional support and purpose
- Keeps you mentally engaged

Ways to stay connected:
☕ Regular coffee dates with friends
📞 Weekly phone calls with family
🎵 Join a choir, book club, or community group
🎨 Attend local events and workshops
🚶‍♀️ Walking groups in Woollahra
💙 Our Carers Network for dementia carers

Take action:
Reach out to one person this week. Whether it's a phone call, a text, or a meeting for tea, connection is powerful medicine for your brain!

👉Read more: https://ap1.hubs.ly/y0GSKn0

Dementia Friendly Woollahra is proudly supported by Woollahra Council and facilitated by Holdsworth.

Our OT expert Jane Corlett shared practical assistive technology that can help people living with dementia manage daily ...
22/05/2026

Our OT expert Jane Corlett shared practical assistive technology that can help people living with dementia manage daily life:

Helpful devices:
📅 Calendar clocks
Display day, date, and time clearly
Help with orientation and routine
Reduce anxiety about forgetting

⏰ Medication reminders
Automated pill dispensers
Alarm systems for medication times
Reduce missed doses

🚨 Personal alarms
Wearable emergency buttons
GPS tracking for safety
24/7 monitoring services
Peace of mind for families

🔦 Automatic sensor lights
Motion-activated for nighttime safety
Reduce fall risk
No need to find switches

📱 Simple mobile phones
Large buttons and display
Pre-programmed contacts
Emergency call features

The key: Choose technology that supports the person's abilities without being overwhelming. Start simple and add as needed.
Have you found an assistive device that's been a game-changer? Tell us about it! 👇

Dementia Friendly Woollahra is proudly supported by Woollahra Council and facilitated by Holdsworth.

Image from Jadco Time.

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Woollahra
Sydney, NSW
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