May 14 - 20, 2025
Croquet, coffee and connections with VMCH SOCIAL fulfilment can be challenging for someone living with dementia or agerelated memory loss and their carer. That’s why VMCH (Villa Maria Catholic Homes) has launched a number of dementia-friendly social support groups across Victoria through their Carer Support program. Every fortnight, VMCH is offering croquet at the Wangaratta Lawns, Tennis, Croquet
By GRACE FREDSBERG and Pickleball Club (WLTCPC) at Merriwa Park from 1pm to 2.30pm. This is the first time that the VMCH Carers Program has rolled out a social group like this to support the older populations of the North East.
Carer engagement officer at VMCH, Catherine Smith, said the group is open to the person living with dementia or age-related memory loss and their carer. “A dementia diagnosis doesn’t mean giving up on participating on social and recreational opportunities, but often confidence is lost, or anxieties are high, and the risk of isolation increases,” she said. She said these groups aim to provide a
◆ UP FOR A GAME: VMCH Wangaratta support worker Bonnie Jackson with Anne Dodd, Cheryle Leitl, Steve Leitl and Lorraine Johnston. PHOTO: Kurt Hickling
positive, familiar social experience for the carer and the person living with dementia or memory loss, through meeting new people and trying a new activity. “These dementia friendly social support groups encourage quality time between the person with dementia and their loved one in a caring role that isn’t just errands and medical appointments,” Catherine said. ■ Continued Page 6
VET CORNER
GONE FISHING
YOUR HEALTH
TOOL TALK
with OVENS AND KIEWA VET
with ROBBIE
with JIM
with DAVID
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