A new service providing mental health support for people living in aged care facilities is now operating across South Eastern NSW.
Continuing to be Me (C2beMe) is funded by Coordinare (South Eastern NSW Primary Health Network) and designed to deliver mental health support services to residents and groups, while also building the skills of health care professionals to identify when residents might need more support.
Coordinare CEO Dianne Kitcher says the service is being offered to more than 80 aged care facilities across the region. It aims to improve resident's mental well-being.
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"The service targets the most vulnerable and disadvantaged older people in our community," she said.
"It's for people at risk of developing or experiencing mild to moderate common mental health issues."
This new, no-cost service is delivered and managed by Parramatta Mission, an organisation within the Uniting Church, Australia.
Acting CEO-Parramatta Mission Mark Newton says C2beMe partners with regional aged care facilities to tailor a program of mental well-being interventions best suited to individual needs.
"C2beMe is designed to work with residents to reinforce older peoples' identity and purpose, while addressing symptoms so residents can continue to live with dignity," said Mr Newton.
"C2beMe offers group activities plus music and art groups. For those who may need more individual attention and support there's individual counselling either with a counsellor face to face or via Telehealth."
Member for Hume, Angus Taylor welcomed the announcement and the continued focus on supporting members in the local community.
"This partnership greatly benefits residents and their families, while enhancing the skills of local professionals working in aged care and delivering mental health services across Goulburn-Mulwaree. Hilltops, Upper Lachlan and Wollondilly," said Mr Taylor.
Through the PHN, the Commonwealth invests in programs like C2beMe to improve the mental health and well-being of people living in South Eastern NSW.
Learn more C2beMe or contact your Residential Aged Care Facility for further information.
