On November 27th, Chung Wah Community Care (CWCC) teamed up with Dementia Australia to host the Dementia Prevention and Wellness Expo at the Willetton Community Hub. It was a fantastic event that brought together government and local service providers, seniors, and caregivers for a fun and informative day! Attendees had the chance to connect with one another and access plenty of valuable resources and support for the community.
The expo brought together more than ten amazing organisations, like Services Australia, Advocare, and Unicare, all eager to share valuable insights on dementia prevention, early detection, treatment, and care. The welcoming information booths made it easy for everyone to gain practical health knowledge they could take home. To add a little extra cheer to the day, Bunnings generously gave away potted plants to attendees, inspiring everyone to embrace some greenery in their lives to boost mental and physical well-being. It was a warm and informative event that left participants feeling informed and uplifted!
One of the day’s highlights was the “Move Your Body” workshop, presented by Injury Matters, which emphasised the critical role of fall prevention in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The engaging session covered the causes of falls, their potential consequences, and actionable strategies for improving strength and balance to reduce risks. The workshop also spotlighted CWCC’s exercise programs, inviting seniors to stay active as a vital step in lowering their dementia risk.
A standout attraction was the Dementia Virtual Reality Workshop, which offered participants a profound and immersive experience of the challenges faced by dementia patients. Wearing specialised equipment, attendees experienced disorienting sensations, including blurred vision, overwhelming background noise, and confusing surroundings. This innovative simulation brought to life the everyday struggles of dementia patients, leaving a lasting impression on participants.
A caregiver reflected, “Experiencing virtual reality really opened my eyes to the profound sense of helplessness that dementia patients endure. Familiar places felt broken and disorienting, which was quite unsettling. However, this experience deepened my appreciation for the challenges my loved one faces. It has strengthened my resolve to give them the patience and dignity they deserve throughout their journey.”
CWCC’s CEO Theresa Kwok and Chairperson Esther Chang inspired attendees with heartfelt speeches, urging seniors to remain active in the community and prioritise their mental and physical health to enhance their quality of life. Representatives from Dementia Australia and the City of Canning commended CWCC’s unwavering commitment to dementia prevention and community well-being.
Adding to the excitement, Theresa unveiled a new initiative: starting soon, CWCC’s Willetton Community Hub will expand Evergreen College cultural activities every Tuesday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, supported by the City of Canning. This expansion aims to provide more connections, learning, and support opportunities.
CWCC is committed to transforming dementia prevention and care into a vital aspect of everyday life. By fostering awareness, understanding, and collaboration within the community, CWCC nurtures a compassionate network where individuals and families affected by dementia can discover the support they deserve. Together, we are creating a brighter and healthier future for all.
