Oral Presentation Australian and New Zealand Society for Geriatric Medicine Annual Scientific Meeting 2025

Transforming dementia care: carer-led solutions for people experiencing severe to extreme BPSD in the ACT (120250)

Mary Ann Kulh 1 2 , Tania Dufty 1 , Shelley Thomson 3 , Carolyn Smith 4 , Casey Wotton 1
  1. ACT Health Directorate, Phillip, ACT, Australia
  2. Australian National University, Acton, ACT, 2601
  3. Patient Experience Agency, Canberra, ACT, Australia
  4. Health Care Consumers' Association of the ACT, Chifley, ACT, Australia

Aims

This project aimed to identify critical gaps and opportunities in dementia care for individuals experiencing severe to extreme Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) in the ACT. The objective was to develop carer-led, human-centred solutions to improve the quality of care and outcomes for people with dementia and their carers.

 

Methods

The project employed a human-centred design methodology, engaging carers through workshops, interviews, and surveys to map the dementia care journey and highlight critical pain points. Future state journey mapping workshops were conducted to co-design practical solutions, prioritising the needs and perspectives of carers and individuals with dementia. Stakeholders included carers, healthcare providers and community organisations.

 

Results

Four priority concepts emerged to address gaps:

  1. Dementia Concierge: a centralised, AI-supported navigation platform to streamline access to services.
  2. BPSD-Specific Respite On-Demand: flexible respite services tailored to severe dementia needs.
  3. Crisis Support On-Demand: rapid response teams for de-escalation and crisis management.
  4. Dementia Centre of Excellence: a multidisciplinary hub for care, education, and innovation.
    A supporting concept of continuous assessments was also identified, utilising AI-driven tools and shared data platforms to enhance proactive care and improve outcomes.

 

Conclusions

This carer-led approach highlights the importance of prioritising lived experiences in healthcare services planning. The proposed solutions align with value-based healthcare principles and the National Dementia Action Plan, offering a roadmap for systemic transformation to improve outcomes, reduce system pressures, and enhance the quality of life for carers and individuals with dementia.