People living with dementia are among the most vulnerable groups in society during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe.

With this in mind, Dementia Australia has released four Help Sheets to help them navigate the challenges, and also their carers, families and friends, and residential care providers and home care providers.

“There is confusion in the community and new rules announced daily to keep pace with this rapidly evolving situation,” Ms McCabe said. “For people living dementia this can create even more uncertainty.

“We have developed these Help Sheets to provide clarity on what people can do to achieve the best possible outcomes for people living with dementia.”

Ms McCabe said the needs and capacity of people living with dementia must be a priority in response to the coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak.

“It is important for them to know they are not alone, especially during this unprecedented time. If you have any further questions, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 for information and support.”

The Help Sheets include:

• Tips for people living with dementia – outlines the coronavirus COVID-19 symptoms, hygiene tips, the importance of having a good support network, ideas to remain active and engaged while in self-isolation, and where to go for help.

• Tips for carers, families and friends of people living with dementia – outlines the coronavirus COVID-19 symptoms, hygiene tips, helpful tips for primary carers, as well as for family, friends or neighbours, ideas for remaining active and engaged while in self-isolation, and where to go for help.

• Tips for residential care providers – outlines the impacts coronavirus COVID-19 may have on residents, tips on alternative activities and how to support continued engagement with families and carers.

• Tips for home care providers – outlines the impacts coronavirus COVID-19 may have on a person living with dementia, tips to reduce heightened anxiety and where to go for help.