The Pulse
Your monthly update on the latest initiatives, innovations, and impacts from Dementia Alliance—keeping you connected to the heartbeat of our work
We’ve Done It – Introducing Dementia Alliance!
We are thrilled to announce that we have taken a bold and exciting step in our evolution. Heathcote Dementia Alliance is now Dementia Alliance, a rebranding that reflects our expanding vision, growing reach, and commitment to serving communities across Australia and beyond.
Why the Change? This transformation isn’t just about a new name—it’s about embracing opportunities to have a broader impact. While our roots will always remain in Heathcote, our work has grown to include national and international recognition. By rebranding as Dementia Alliance, we remove geographical boundaries, enabling us to collaborate more widely, form new partnerships, and extend our services to diverse communities throughout Australia.
What Does This Mean?
Broader Reach: Our new identity allows us to support more communities, including First Nations, CALD, and LGBTQIA+ groups, through inclusive programs that address their unique needs.
New Opportunities: The change opens doors for greater collaboration with national and international organizations, sharing our innovative models like the Bush-Inspired Community Care Model and Reflections at Eppalock.
Expanded Services: As Dementia Alliance, we’re better positioned to explore innovative solutions in respite tourism, dementia care, and community inclusion, delivering meaningful outcomes for people living with dementia and their carers.
Recognition: This rebrand strengthens our identity as a leader in dementia-friendly initiatives, attracting funding, partnerships, and attention from those who share our mission.
Looking Forward with Dementia Alliance
Becoming Dementia Alliance signifies so much more than a new name—it represents our bold commitment to building a future where inclusive, innovative, and supportive care is accessible to everyone, regardless of their background, culture, or location. This rebrand marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, full of possibilities to empower communities and revolutionize how we support individuals living with dementia and their loved ones.
An Exciting Start to the New Year
It’s only been three weeks into the New Year, and we already have so much to share!
Building Empathy Through Understanding: The team recently participated in an Enabling Edie workshop, expertly facilitated by Dementia Australia. This immersive and eye-opening experience provided profound insights into how individuals with dementia perceive and navigate their world. It was both confronting and deeply moving, helping us better understand the unique challenges they face. This workshop reaffirmed our commitment to creating truly inclusive and supportive environments for all.
Reflections at Eppalock – A Sanctuary in the Making: Situated on 20 acres along the tranquil banks of Lake Eppalock, Reflections at Eppalock is transforming into a sanctuary for individuals with dementia and their carers. Thanks to the efforts of an incredible team of volunteers and supporters, the progress has been remarkable: Costerfield House has been successfully relocated to the site.
A 15m transportable deck has been designed and constructed to enhance accessibility and usability.
2 kilometers of walking paths have been created with the generous support of the Freemasons.
We’ve planted hundreds of propagated plants, built a campfire area, and established a yarning circle for cultural connection.
The refurbishment of the Community Hub is well underway, promising to provide a versatile and inclusive indoor space for diverse activities.
The transformation of Reflections at Eppalock has been nothing short of amazing, and it’s only the beginning!
Engaging with Diverse Communities: We are committed to working with and supporting diverse communities in meaningful ways: LGBTQIA+ Inclusion: Dementia Alliance will proudly man the ChillOut Zone at the ChillOut Festival in Daylesford, continuing our commitment to inclusivity.
Collaboration with First Nations: We’re planning a Community Health Day in partnership with BDAC (Bendigo District Aboriginal Cooperative) to engage and support the local community.
CALD Engagement: We’re hosting a visit in mid-February from Regional Colours, a group representing culturally and linguistically diverse communities, to experience Reflections at Eppalock.
Expanding Our Reach and Impact: Dementia Alliance is stepping onto the global stage as a leader in innovative care and respite:
In February, our garden project will officially launch, further enhancing the therapeutic and community spaces at Reflections at Eppalock.
We’ve been invited to present at the Institute of Community Directors and the Active Ageing Consortium Asia Pacific have invited us to produce and moderate a webinar on “Innovative Respite and Green Spaces in Australia.”
We’ll also host international visitors from Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, all of whom are keen to learn about our pioneering work and explore opportunities for collaboration.
Looking Ahead
With our new identity as Dementia Alliance, we are ready to take on new opportunities and challenges with a broader vision and a stronger voice. Whether it’s creating spaces like Reflections at Eppalock, engaging with diverse communities, or sharing our innovations on a global stage, we remain dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of people with dementia and their carers.
The future is bright, and we are excited to continue this incredible journey with you. Stay tuned for more updates as we transform care, challenge boundaries, and build a future that is inclusive for all.
