During Dementia Action Week (15–21 September), Anglicare Southern Queensland is highlighting the success of its Abri Residential Aged Care Home in South Brisbane, where a newly opened Specialist Dementia Care Program (SDCP) unit is helping make a difference.
Launched in May this year, the dedicated eight-bed unit provides transitional, short-term support for people living with severe behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia who cannot be effectively cared for in mainstream aged care.
For resident Victor Yates, the program has been life-changing. His wife, Susan, said the improvements in his well-being have been extraordinary.
“Before Abri, his previous place of care had him on incredibly high amounts of medication just to manage his needs,” Mrs Yates said. “He couldn’t follow a routine or even enjoy simple things like time outside in the sun. Since moving to Abri, his behaviour has shifted, his medication has been reduced, and he now has a routine where he thrives. He was even named Resident of the Month.”
Anglicare Southern Queensland Chief Operating Officer of Aged and Community Services, Kane Singh, said Victor’s story demonstrates the value of specialist programs.
“In 2025, an estimated 433,300 Australians are living with dementia, and without significant intervention, this figure is expected to rise to more than 812,000 by 2054,” Mr Singh said.
“Programs like the SDCP provide stabilisation in a dementia-friendly environment, with the goal of supporting people to transition back into mainstream care when appropriate.”
Kane Singh
The Abri unit is supported by a multidisciplinary team including nurses, geriatricians and allied health practitioners. While most residents stay an average of 6–12 months, each care plan is personalised to the individual.
Building on this success, Anglicare will soon open another SDCP unit at the E.M Tooth Residential Aged Care Home in Manly. The nine-bed unit will contribute to the Australian Government’s national plan for 35 SDCP sites across the country.
