Talkin' Shop
Kempsey Shire Council has partnered with Alzheimer’s Australia and the Macleay Regional Co-operative to deliver a program that combats the risk of social isolation for our elderly, particularly those with memory loss and dementia.
For many older residents the weekly shopping trip to town is not only essential for purchasing groceries but also provides valuable social interaction with their peers and other community members. Memory loss can often lead to confusion and embarrassment and many people retreat to the safety of their own homes which can eventually lead to social isolation. However, scarce community resources are needed, to address these problems.
By training the broader business community to assist these people, the quality of life for people living with dementia, their families and carers is enhanced. The program is coordinated through Macleay Community Care Options. The three partnering organisations have contact with virtually every household in the area.
Through the partnership the Macleay Regional Cooperative, staff will be trained to better assist a client with memory loss or dementia while they are in the IGA store doing their weekly shopping. It is the aim of the program to talk to the Chamber of Commerce in order to be able to introduce to the wider business community the benefits of the Talkin’ Shop program.
Contact: Robert - Program Administrator
