New Home for Young Onset Dementia

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Will you help us build WA’s first purpose-built home for younger people diagnosed with dementia?

Every week in WA, someone under the age of 65 is diagnosed with dementia (known as ‘Young Onset Dementia’). Many are in their 40s and 50s, juggling kids, a career and a mortgage.

As the disease progresses, they need specialised care and accommodation. Despite the growing need for YOD-specific accommodation, there are very few suitable options for these people to turn to.

A new support home in Waikiki will bridge the gap. This proposed home will be WA’s first purpose-built YOD home, incorporating global research into YOD and designed in direct consultation with people with lived experience.

How you can help

Your contribution could be the key that unlocks this vital service. We’re seeking generosity of all types:

  • Provide sponsorship or funding and receive forever naming rights
  • Share resources or services to help bring the home to life – from construction to gardening or furniture, your skill set and / or supplies are desperately needed
  • Connect us with partners and suppliers who may be keen to hit back against dementia.

For a friendly conversation about how you could help unlock WA’s first purpose-built YOD home, contact Corporate Partnerships Manager Nicola Bedwood on [email protected] or call 0427 276 016.

 

*Image depicts a past project and is for illustrative purposes only.

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The facts about Young Onset Dementia

  • YOD affects almost 3,000 people in Western Australia today (a number projected to rise by nearly 50% by 2054)
  • People in their 30s, 40s, 50s and early 60s with dementia often fall between gaps in the systems. They are placed into aged care homes with people in their 80s and 90s, or left in other unsuitable housing arrangements with minimal support
  • Families frequently face burnout and crisis admissions due to a lack of purpose-built accommodation
  • Many individuals end up socially isolated or hospitalised as a last resort.

The YOD home that will bridge the gap

This world-class home will:

  • Provide a safe, age-appropriate and enabling environment for people living with young onset dementia
  • Be co-designed with families and guided by national and international dementia-enabling design principles
  • Deliver dignity, purpose and connection
  • Serve as a pilot for the sector, creating a replicable model to benefit families, carers and the wider community.

 

*Image depicts a past project and is for illustrative purposes only.

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Jason’s Journey

At just 47, Jason was diagnosed with Young Onset Dementia, which, in his words, was “quite a shock.” YOD threatened Jason’s independence and ability to enjoy life his way.

Moving into one of Brightwater’s new YOD homes, designed specifically for people living with YOD, has given Jason both freedom and peace of mind. He’s been able to keep personal touches, like his own bird bath in the garden, and enjoys being part of a ten-pin bowling league and going to the gym each week.

Living in Kingsley has helped Jason regain a sense of independence.

We'd love to hear from you

For a friendly conversation about how you could help unlock WA’s first purpose-built YOD home, contact Corporate Partnerships Manager Nicola Bedwood on [email protected] or call 0427 276 016.

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About Brightwater

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Thrive, connect & belong

We create communities where people connect and belong, thriving through progressive and responsive care.

Whether in your own home, or one of ours, we keep you connected to what matters most, in the communities you belong so you can thrive.

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Neurological specialists

As specialists in acquired and progressive neurological conditions we support people living with Brain Injuries, Dementia, and Huntington's Disease to reach their full potential. Designing bespoke programs and world leading homes including BrightRespite, Piara Waters Huntington's Disease and Oats Street brain rehabilitation, to provide innovative care and a pathway to greater independence.

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Responsibility for research & innovation

We are the only WA aged care and disability provider with a dedicated Centre for Research & Innovation – a hub of discovery, collaborating with national and international universities to find innovative solutions to improve the quality of lives of our clients.

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Not-for-profit since 1901

For over 100 years, we’ve been there for West Australians from all walks of life. With humble beginnings in Subiaco, today we provide services all across Perth.