Voices in DREAM
Supporting you to support people living with dementia Are you a frontline worker in dementia care or passionate about improving aged care? Join us for Voices in DREAM — supporting you to support people living with dementia. Voices in DREAM is a new podcast that shares honest stories, practical tips, and culturally responsive care strategies from people in the field in respite, permanent residential, and home care settings. Hear from support workers, nurses, allied health professionals, and dementia support coaches who know what it’s really like to support and care for people living with dementia, especially in a respite setting. Listen...
A usually easy-going older person living with dementia begins showing subtle signs of confusion and agitation: How could you respond?
In today’s episode, Julie, one of our past DREAM Dementia Support Coaches, talks with Yashi about a scenario where a usually easy-going older person living with dementia begins showing subtle signs of confusion and agitation.
This episode is part of our navigating changing behaviours in people living with dementia series, where we dive into real-life behavioural shifts and share practical strategies to help caregivers respond with confidence and compassion.
Tune in as they discuss
· Approaching the older person with patience, empathy, and reassurance.
· Using short, clear communication and gentle redirec...
Welcome to DREAM Coaching: Understanding the role of Dementia Support Coaches and how they can support you
Welcome to Season 2 of Voices in DREAM, where we explore real-life case scenarios involving changing behaviours in people living with dementia. Guided by experienced Dementia Support Coaches, this series offers practical strategies, reassurance, and compassionate support to help care providers navigate the challenges of dementia care with confidence and empathy.
Together with DREAM Coaches, we unpack behavioural shifts by identifying early signs, exploring practical and person-centred strategies, and sharing tools that promote patience, empathy, and resilience. Our goal is to offer insight and reassurance, supporting you to create moments of comfort, dignity, and connection for people living w...
The role of research and community in improving dementia care
Did you know that every piece of progress we make in dementia care, from understanding risk factors to improving support for families, is shaped by research, and often by people living with dementia and the community?
In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Yashi speaks with Distinguished Professor Emeritus James Vickers, recent past Director of the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre (2018-2025), about how research and community participation improves dementia care and outcomes.
Tune in to learn about:
· Why dementia research matters
· The type of research going on at the Wickin...
Volunteering in aged care: the experience, how education helps and benefits that go both ways
What role do volunteers play in aged care in Australia? According to the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, volunteers are an essential part of the aged care system, contributing to positive outcomes such as increases in health and wellness and social connectedness.
In this special episode of the Voices in DREAM podcast, recognising National Volunteer Week, volunteer Patricia shares her insights after a decade in the role working with older people, many who live with dementia. She shares her thoughts on:
· supporting people to live well in aged care
· ...
Australia’s National Dementia Action Plan 2024-2034: What it is and why it matters?
Did you know that in December 2024 the Australian Government launched a 10-year National Dementia Action Plan? This isn’t just a policy document, it’s a roadmap for improving diagnosis, care, support, research, and community understanding for people living with dementia and their carers.
In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Yashi sits down with Distinguished Professor Emeritus James Vickers, Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, to unpack what’s new, why it’s so important, and how it could change the landscape of dementia care in Australia.
Tune in to learn about:
The pu...Providing LGBTQ+ inclusive dementia care: What it takes and why it’s important
Did you know that LGBTQ+ inclusive care isn’t just a nice-to-have, but a vital part of effective dementia services? Providing care that is affirming and respectful of sexuality, gender identity and gender expression, and understand and meets the needs of each person, improves comfort, trust, emotional wellbeing, and care outcomes for people living with dementia and their families.
In this episode Pauline Crameri, coordinator of Val’s LGBTI Ageing & Aged Care, and Yashi explore what inclusive LGBTQ+ dementia care might look like. They discuss a range of aspects that may be experienced by LGBTQ+ peop...
Outdoors and green spaces: Nature as therapy
Did you know that access to nature isn’t just nice to have but is vital for all people, especially for those living with dementia? Nature can reduce agitation, improve mood, and encourage movement.
In this episode, Dr Pauline Marsh, Senior Lecturer in Dementia Studies, and Yashi discuss how outdoor design can creates therapeutic, dementia-friendly spaces.
Tune in to learn about
· The healing benefits of nature for people with dementia
· Features of outdoor environments that have therapeutic impact for people living with dementia
· Designing safe and accessible outdoor spaces
· ...
Palliative care and dementia: Understanding the connection and supporting families through tough decisions
Did you know palliative care isn’t just for the final days of life? For people living with dementia, it plays a vital role throughout the condition, supporting comfort, dignity, communication, and quality of life.
In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Yashi and Tiffany, an experienced nurse from Palliative Care Victoria, explore how dementia and palliative care are closely connected. We discuss when decision-making becomes difficult, how families cope when their loved one loses capacity, and the emotional stress and guilt that come with tough choices. We also look at how the aged care workforce can su...
Walking together: Dementia and palliative care pathways
Did you know that many families don’t realise when palliative care begins for a loved one with dementia? Yet early, compassionate conversations can bring comfort, clarity, and peace to everyone involved.
In this episode, Yashi, and Tiffany, an experienced Nurse from Palliative Care Victoria, explore how dementia and palliative care pathways connect, and how aged care workers, nurses, and support staff can better guide families through this emotional stage.
Tune in to learn about:
How dementia progresses over time and why palliative care is an important part of supporting pe...Color and contrast: Designing with the eye in mind
Did you know that color and contrast can make or break how safe and welcoming a care environment feels? For people with dementia, high-contrast design supports depth perception, safety, and orientation.
In this episode, Dr Sun and Yashi explore how the thoughtful use of colour can transform dementia care spaces.
Tune in to learn about
· Why contrast matters for people living with dementia
· Using colors to signal safety, comfort, and familiarity
· Practical examples from real care homes
· How small design tweaks can reduce falls and anxiety
Supporting people living with dementia during respite in a residential care home, Annie’s story.
Did you know that tailored care approaches in residential care homes can significantly improve the quality of life for people living with dementia? When care teams understand their unique needs and preferences, residents feel safer, more engaged, and more respected.
In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Annie shares her experience of working in dementia respite care. She talks about how she builds therapeutic relationships with people living with dementia and their families, and what has worked for her in practice.
Please note that every person receiving respite care and type of services or care...
The power of personal spaces: Designing rooms that feel like home
Did you know that a residential care home doesn’t have to feel institutional? Personal touches, familiar objects, and warm design can be used to transform rooms into comforting spaces that support memory and dignity.
In this episode, Dr Jo Sun and Yashi discuss the importance of creating personalised, familiar, and dementia-friendly spaces in aged care facilities.
Tune in to learn about:
· Why personalisation reduces anxiety and supports memory
· Simple, affordable changes families and teams can make
· Balancing safety with familiarity in design
· How personal spaces strengthen identity and...
Music therapy in dementia care: unlocking memory, emotion, and connection
Did you know that music has the power to awaken memories, reduce anxiety, and create meaningful moments for people living with dementia? Music therapy isn’t just entertainment; it’s a proven approach that improves well-being and strengthens relationships between individuals, families, and care providers.
In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Dr. Brendan Lamb, a lecturer in Creative Arts and Health, and Yashi dive into the role of music therapy in dementia care. They explore how rhythm, melody, and familiar songs can reach parts of the brain untouched by dementia and why this therapeutic tool is so p...
Reablement: encouraging and maintaining independence
Did you know that supporting someone to do things for themselves instead of doing it for them can boost their confidence, maintain dignity, and improve their overall wellbeing? That’s the power of reablement.
In this episode, Dr Claire O’Connor joins Yashi to explore how reablement supports older adults to maintain or regain their independence through meaningful, everyday tasks.
Dr Claire O'Connor is a Senior Research Fellow in the School of Psychology, UNSW, a Conjoint Senior Research Fellow with NeuRA, Honorary Senior Research Fellow with HammondCare, and is also...
When do you call the nurse? Supporting decision making in aged care
Did you know that in aged care, especially in dementia support, knowing when to escalate a behavioural concern and how to respond in the moment can significantly impact an older person’s wellbeing and the overall care environment.
In this powerful episode with Annie, a nurse with more than a decade of experience as a support worker, we unpack a common but often unspoken challenge: How do you decide when it’s time to call in a nurse or manager for behavioural support?
Tune in to hear about:
· How changed be...
Experience of first respite: Sharon and her mother’s story
What is it really like to access overnight respite care for the first time?
In this heartfelt episode of Voices in DREAM, we sit down with Sharon to hear her and her mother’s powerful story of experiencing overnight respite care for the very first time.
Sharon’s mum, who was living with dementia, faced uncertainty and vulnerability during this major transition. Sharon shares her emotional journey, the fears, hopes, and lessons she and her mum both encountered.
Tune in to explore:
· The emotional impact of accessing respite for the first...
Tips for support workers and carers supporting a person living with dementia in a respite setting: successful respite care
Did you know that successful respite care for people living with dementia relies just as much on how we support the carers and support workers as it does on the care itself? Empowered, well-informed carers can make all the difference in creating a safe, calm, and enriching respite experience.
In this episode of Voices in DREAM, we explore practical, person-centred strategies for both support workers and carers who are providing respite care for individuals living with dementia. Whether it’s preparing for a respite stay or responding to changes in behaviour, this episode offers helpful tips grounded in...
Supporting each other in our workplace to provide the most effective care to someone coming for respite who is living with dementia.
Did you know that strong teamwork in aged care settings can lead to better outcomes for people living with dementia, especially during short-term respite stays? When staff support one another, care becomes more consistent, compassionate, and person-centred.
In this episode of Voices in DREAM we’re joined by Emmanuel, an experienced aged care worker who shares practical strategies for building a supportive workplace culture. Together, we explore how collaboration, open communication, and simple daily actions between staff can make a powerful difference in the lives of residents and in the wellbeing of care teams.
Tu...
Respite care insights: Michelle’s expert takes on dementia care in short-term settings
Did you know that dementia care in respite settings requires a unique approach to help both the person living with dementia and their caregivers adjust, feel safe, and thrive during short stays?
In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Michelle, a Dementia Nurse Consultant, shares her expert insights on how dementia care in respite settings differs from long-term care. She explains the challenges, the importance of quick trust-building, and how respite care not only supports people living with dementia but also provides crucial relief to their families.
Tune in to learn about:
T...Respite and rest: Sharon’s journey caring for her mum with dementia
Did you know that just a few days of respite care can help family caregivers feel more rested, less stressed, and more connected to the people they’re caring for?
In this episode of Voices in DREAM Sharon shares her personal story of caring for her mum, Janet, who lived with vascular dementia. From the early signs and diagnosis to discovering respite care and the real impact it had on both their lives. This episode dives deep into how taking a break can truly make a difference.
Tune in to hear about:
Th...Designing for dignity: How the environment shapes dementia care
Did you know that thoughtfully designed environments can reduce anxiety, improve safety, and support independence for people living with dementia - especially in short-term respite care settings.
In today’s episode of Voices in DREAM, Yashi welcomes Bridgette, an advocate for dementia friendly environmental design. Bridgette shares practical insights on how small but meaningful environmental changes in respite care can create calm, connection, and dignity for residents living with dementia.
In today’s episode Bridgette and Yashi talk about:
What makes a dementia-friendly environment in respite and residential careHow the environment impacts resi...The heart of care: Support workers making a difference
Did you know that support workers play a key role not just in providing care, but in helping residents living with dementia stay socially connected through shared activities. With the right support, these moments of connection can boost confidence, reduce isolation, and bring real joy to daily life.
Listen now to John’s inspiring story, full of practical ideas and activities you can use or encourage in your aged care setting to help residents connect with others living with dementia. Hear firsthand what it’s like to live in a supportive community and take part in meaningful activ...
The heart of care: A support worker’s role in creating a positive dementia community
Did you know that support workers are often the quiet heroes behind positive dementia care, helping residents feel safe, understood, and truly connected to their community.
In today’s episode of Voices in DREAM, we meet Sarah, a passionate and experienced support worker who plays a vital role in both respite and residential dementia care. From tailored activities to team collaboration and deep empathy, Sarah brings heart and purpose to everything she does.
Sarah shares how understanding each resident as an individual helps build trust, comfort, and joy. You’ll hear how teamwork, communication, and smal...
Staying active and connected: The power of meaningful activities
Did you know that meaningful activities and social connections are essential for people living with dementia. They help support independence, boost mood, and reduce feelings of isolation. Support workers play a crucial role in creating these opportunities every day.
Yashi speaks with John again today, and continues his inspiring story full of practical ideas and activities you can use in your aged care setting to help residents connect with their fellow residents living with dementia. Hear firsthand what it’s like to live in a supportive community and take part in meaningful activities alongside people living with dem...
Supporting people living with dementia in community respite settings
Did you know that community respite care is essential for supporting the wellbeing of people living with dementia by helping them stay connected, engaged, and comfortable during short stays away from home?
In this episode of Voices in DREAM, Emmanuel, an experienced support worker in community respite, shares practical insights on providing effective dementia support. He discusses what quality community respite care looks like, how support workers can better assist people living with dementia, and the value of strong support networks within the aged care workforce.
Tune in to learn about:
· What c...
Living and learning together: A resident’s journey supporting dementia in a retirement village
Did you know that many residents living independently in retirement communities actively support their neighbours with dementia? Building friendships, sharing knowledge, and creating joyful connections every day.
Listen now to John’s inspiring story, full of practical ideas and activities you can use or encourage in your aged care setting to help residents connect with others living with dementia. Hear firsthand what it’s like to live in a supportive community and take part in meaningful activities alongside residents and their partners.
Join Yashi and John as they continue their conversation about living and learning togethe...
Bringing joy and purpose: How do activities enhance life for people living with dementia?
Did you know that meaningful activities aren’t just fun—they can bring comfort, confidence, and connection to people living with dementia, especially in respite care settings where time is short, but impact can be deep.
In today’s episode of Voices in DREAM, we’re joined by Sarah, an experienced support worker in respite care, who shares how activities play a vital role in creating joyful, person-centred experiences for residents. From teamwork with activity coordinators to creative, simple ways to build connection, Sarah talks about what really works in short-stay care. Her stories offer practica...
Living well together: Life in a shared dementia community
Did you know that many people living independently alongside friends with dementia find that they can play a role in creating a welcoming, connected community.
Over four episodes you will meet John, an inspiring 89-year-old resident of The Landings in Sydney who has turned community care into a way of life. After completing the Understanding Dementia and Preventing Dementia MOOCs, John now leads by example, creating connections and promoting dementia-friendly activities through LDK’s Supported Lifestyle Program.
Listen now to John’s inspiring story, full of practical ideas and activities you can use or en...
Culture, Beliefs and Barriers: What Aged Care Workers Need to Know About Cultural Influences in Dementia Care
Did you know that in some cultures, dementia is seen as a spiritual issue, or that language barriers and stigma can delay diagnosis and support?
If you're an aged care worker, this episode is for you. Because understanding culture isn't just a "nice to have" it's essential to delivering safe, respectful, and person-centred dementia care. Join host Yashi and Phoebe, a Care Manager and Dementia Lead, as they unpack the cultural beliefs and barriers that aged care workers face daily and share practical tips to help you provide more respectful, person-centred, and culturally sensitive care.
I...
The Power of Words: Talking About Dementia with Respect
What if I told you that one word, just one, could either uplift or isolate someone living with dementia? The language we use shapes how we think and how others feel.
That one word could be: “Still”, “Yet”, “Stillness”, “enough” etc
One word used with care can change how we see, treat, and connect with someone living with dementia. Choosing uplifting, respectful, person-first language helps build a more compassionate, inclusive world.
In this episode of Voices in DREAM, we explore how respectful, inclusive, and empowering language can reduce stigma and promote dign...
One size doesn’t fit all: Understanding dementia types in aged care
In this episode of Voices in DREAM, we explore the reality that dementia is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Join Yashi and Dementia Nurse Consultant Michelle Clarke as they break down the different types of dementia, how symptoms can vary, and why aged care workers need to tailor their communication and care to each individual.
Whether you're new to aged care or a seasoned professional, this episode offers practical insights to improve your confidence, compassion, and care approach.
What to Expect in this Episode:
An overview of the main types of dementia commonly...Caring for people with dementia in respite – what every support worker should know
Are you supporting someone living with dementia in a respite care setting?
Whether you're new to the role or have years of experience, this episode is your go-to guide (or a helpful refresher) on the dementia basics that matter most in short-stay care.
Join your host Yashi as she walks you through:
· Care strategies that make respite easier
· Practical care tips tailored for respite care
· Managing changing behaviours with calmness and empathy
· Simple ways to support brain health in everyday routines
Lis...
Dementia 101 – What Every Support Worker Should Know
Did you know that over 57 million people worldwide are living with dementia today?
If you supporting someone living with dementia — in a home, respite, or aged care setting, then this episode is your go-to introduction (or refresher!) on dementia. Join your host Yashi as she walks you through key aspects of dementia. Whether you're just starting out in aged care or have years of experience, this episode offers valuable knowledge to help you provide confident, compassionate support.
In this episode, you'll learn about:
· What dementia is.
· Common symptoms.
Introducing DREAM: Supporting You to Support People Living with Dementia
“If you are someone supporting people living with dementia at home, in the community or at a residential care facility and struggle to navigate changing behaviours, then you are not alone. And you don’t have to do it alone.”
This week on Voices in DREAM, we’re diving into the DREAM program a powerful, practical resource created to help aged care workers like you feel more confident and supported when supporting people living with dementia, especially in respite settings.
Join host Yashi and Dr. Kathleen Doherty from the Wicking Dementia Centre as they explore real sto...
Introducing Voices in DREAM
Introducing “Voices in DREAM (Dementia Respite Education and Mentoring)” - supporting you to support people living with dementia.
Are you an aged care worker supporting people with dementia during permanent or respite care? Then welcome to Voices in DREAM - connecting you to the aged care workforce to support you to support people living with dementia. This podcast is for you.
Each episode, we share practical tips, real stories, and compassionate strategies to help you provide person-centred and culturally safe care that truly makes a difference.
I'm Yashi (BNurs(Hons), MNursPrac, PhD i...
