Kuba Natha, a remote aged care home on Mornington Island in the Gulf of Carpentaria, has seen transformation through tailored interventions for First Nations Elders living with dementia.
The collaboration between the facility operator selectability and Dementia Support Australia (DSA) has created significant improvements, including turning an unused courtyard into a communal space for yarning and socialising around a firepit. Personalised strategies for managing behaviours and psychological symptoms of dementia have led to better resident engagement and reduced incidents of distress. Weekly barbecues with family members have fostered stronger community bonds, enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
DSA’s involvement began after a 73-year-old resident, a survivor of domestic violence, exhibited physical responsiveness towards staff due to communication challenges and unaddressed health needs. Simple interventions, such as providing her with a personal TV and involving her in community care activities, alleviated tensions. The collaboration also highlighted the importance of culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care, especially for First Nations people. This approach is becoming a growing focus for DSA’s nationwide consultants.
There are 17 dedicated staff who fly in and fly out to support the residents.
Kuba Natha regional manager Jayne Maddick said there had been a notable improvement in
the aged care home this year.
“The residents are more engaged, and boredom is less of a concern,” she said.
“When we had the cooler nights, we were lighting the fire in the fire pit outside and everyone was around sharing stories and laughing.’’
Kuba Natha’s transformation illustrates how thoughtful, personalised care can enhance the well-being of residents in remote aged care settings, creating a vibrant, supportive environment for those living with dementia.
