Omnicare Alliance’s new day centre has been open since the end of September. It previously operated at the church hall in Cameron Street.

Omnicare is a not-for-profit community impact operation. They provide aged, disability and dementia care services, operate social enterprises and have partnerships with other community groups.

The staff run programs that are aimed at engaging clients in meaningful and purposeful activities.

Omnicare has developed The WISER (wellness, innovation, support, empowerment and research) Approach to dementia care – a Montessori-based initiative which accommodates the skills, interests and needs of the individual.

All support workers undergo WISER training.  This approach aims to increase the independence of people living with dementia, so they can live at home more independently and for longer.

WISER works with primary carers (typically spouses and/or family members) to get as broad a picture of clients as possible.

Omnicare maintains close contact with carers to support them in their role.

“When available, we offer WISER training for carers and run regular chat groups where participants can share their experiences with others and provide us with feedback,” said Sarah McGarrity.

“We’re rolling out WISER training to our disability support staff and will begin running disability group activities at the new Wauchope centre,” she added.

Senior support worker Keren Longbottom said it was fantastic to see how well people living with dementia enjoyed getting involved in preparing and serving food, going on outings, and doing activities like knitting.  And she said carers really need a break from the demands of their role.

Find out more at www.omnicare.org.au

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