Five-star social centre

Not a day goes by without an event or activity for their clients. These dedicated dementia champions do not miss a beat when it comes to their clients’ needs, and the atmosphere is so warm and friendly it gives me the urge to stay a while longer.

Their clients are always happy and the staff members have certainly gained their clients’ trust. Each time I see their staff, they have beaming smiles across their faces. 

Silver Chain’s Mandurah Social Centre offers a comfortable, home-like setting where people can socialise, relax and have fun in a safe, dementia-friendly environment.

Centre coordinator Mandy Holmshaw said the centre offered a range of benefits.

“We are trying to give people a chance to socialise and have some fun, but also to encourage them to stay active and engaged,” Ms Holmshaw said.

“To do that we use person-centred goals. We talk to each client about their own goals and see how we can best support those. Our aim is to help our clients and their carers to be more confident and active, so they can remain at home for as long as possible.”

Many of the staff are specifically trained as Dementia Champions, accredited by Alzheimer’s Australia.

“Our dementia champions can really empower our clients. At the end of the day, it’s all about the clients and supporting them to live their best life,” Ms Holmshaw said.

This is reflected in the varied program of activities that are managed at the Social Centre, from picnics to attending community events and concerts, to dancing with therapy robots and doing kickboxing classes.

For Seniors Week 2018, the Mandurah Social Centre will be having morning tea at the Dome Halls Head; taking part in Dance Fit for Life at the Mandurah Seniors Community Centre; attending the free Seniors Extravaganza Concert being held at the Seniors Centre; experiencing Virtual Reality at the Mandurah Social Centre; and enjoying the Eddie Storm OAM Concert being held at the Mandurah Social Centre on November 16.