The state's first travelling dementia bus has visited Quairading to help educate the community on the disease that is the second leading cause of death in the country.
Not-for-profit community-based organisation, Community Vision has taken WA's first travelling community dementia bus around the state during Dementia Awareness Month in September, making its first stop on Sunday, September 8 to the Badjaling Aboriginal Community, 10kms east of Quairading.
Community Vision chief executive Michelle Jenkins said the visit provided the group with information on the local community, the people and the land they live on and provide an opportunity for the dementia bus to educate locals on the disease, the support that's available and how to cope with the disease when it affects loved ones and those within the community.
"As more people are affected by dementia the need for awareness greatens," Ms Jenkins said.
"We hope that our awareness building, respite and education via and the bus, will help the whole community to understand what a person with dementia experiences and prepare them better with how to cope."
The travelling bus will also be visiting relevant community events throughout Dementia Awareness Month to provide the opportunity for the wider community, who don't have immediate access to local services to get the education, respite and advice they need when it comes to dealing with those living with dementia.
Ms Jenkins said the inside of the bus is fully air conditioned and fitted with sensory materials to help reduce frustration, stress and anxiety.
There is also be tea and coffee facilities and a pull-out awning on the exterior of the bus.
Manned by two staff, the bus will also allow carers and loved ones of those living with dementia to get some respite as well as seek advice and learn new therapy techniques or methods of dealing with a loved one with dementia.
Community Vision's travelling dementia bus has been made possible a fundraising campaign called A Roast to Remember.
The fundraising campaign encourages people to get friends, family and neighbours together for a special roast dinner and raise funds or simply go online and donate.
Whilst visiting the Badjaling Aboriginal Community Community Vision hosted their version of a roast dinner with a traditional barbeque.
