These workshops are offered at our centre, or can be hosted by facilities, in both metro and regional areas. Skills learnt can be passed on to other staff and volunteers- recently an aged care provider rolled out a new art program to twelve of their facilities, culminating in a highly successful joint exhibition with artworks sold as a fundraiser by donation. Other Aged Care facilities are now recognizing the many positive aspects of creating permanent exhibition areas for residents and families to enjoy, the next step in the bigger picture. Associate Professor Susan Kurrle Associate Professor Chris Roberts University of Sydney estimated 23 900 people are living with YOD, about 6-9% of all dementia cases. Conservative estimates suggest the offspring affected between 10-24 years, is about 3000. Young people within families are impacted but little is known about their experiences. conducting semi-structured interviews with the young people we capture a rich descriptive picture. A theoretical perspective informed by the Social Model of Disability, acknowledges that much of the disablement experienced by the young people is socially constructed. emotional trauma, social stigma, and social exclusion. Findings highlighted the significant mental health issues of young people living with a parent with YOD, particularly at critical times in developing their personal identity. The stigma associated with the concealment process of their parent's diagnosis, leaves them feeling different and devalued. They reported a sense of social exclusion preventing them from full participation in their usual community activities. significant psychological difficulties, as a result of living with a parent with YOD. They are further disabled by societal discrimination against families living with dementia, experiencing social stigma and social exclusion. This research can contribute to the development of enabling services to support the young people. Community Care Services Central Coast Ltd people with dementia in the community is the reality of "drift' the slow dispersal of their social circle of friends and even their family as their time becomes increasingly engaged in care activities. These social bonds are not easily reforged as dementia takes its course and the lives of the carer and the person with dementia are irrevocably changed by the progression of the disease. |