The dementia retreat helping carers take back control

When someone you love is living with dementia, life doesn’t just change – it reshapes itself entirely. Every day can bring new challenges including changes in mood, memory or behaviour. It’s easy to feel like you’re trying to navigate care for them without a map.

For many readers of Starts at 60, the role of carer isn’t just a task – it’s a deeply personal, often emotional ride filled with love, resilience and commitment.

At times, you might find yourself faced with new behaviours, long days, and restless nights. And while keeping a loved one at home offers familiarity and comfort, it can also mean bearing the responsibilities of care largely on your own.

In Australia, roughly two-thirds of people with dementia continue to live in the community, surrounded by familiar people and routines. But did you know that many family carers give more than 60 hours a week of unpaid support? It’s a huge commitment — often without any formal training or guidance.

If this sounds familiar — you don’t have to do this alone. Getting support early can improve everyone’s quality of life

Your respite retreat – A break that feels like a breath of fresh air.

Imagine a free program at a place where you can pause, breathe, learn and feel seen. Staying at Home is a free national wellbeing and respite program for people living with dementia and their carers, offering a two-night retreat (with meals and accommodation included) that provides not only some time to rest but practical guidance for those caring for someone living with dementia.

Carers and the person they support can come together in supportive programs designed to meet each of their needs. While your loved one living with dementia is gently introduced to respite care in a warm, welcoming environment, you’ll gain new tools, a fresh perspective and emotional support.

Watch the below video to get a taste of the Staying at Home retreat experience.

Look forward to a real confidence booster.

You’ll learn from experts just how to respond to changes in your loved one’s behaviour with understanding and empathy — while also focusing on your own mental and emotional wellbeing. You’ll meet other carers on similar paths and hear stories that echo your own.

“I feel a little more in control,” says Janice, who supports her husband with dementia, after attending her local retreat. “I can see how I can handle the situation, which can be quite challenging at times.”

What you’ll take home — beyond just information.

Over two or three powerful days, this retreat helps you:

• Better understand dementia and the behaviours it can bring.
• Connect with support services available in your community.
• Learn ways to care for yourself — not just your loved one.
• Begin planning for the future, with less fear and more clarity.
• Continue meaningful activities together for as long as possible.
• Navigate the transition into respite care when the time is right.
• Most importantly, you’ll leave with a renewed sense of strength and confidence — and a reminder that you’re doing an incredible job.

Search for retreat dates and locations.

Can’t get away right now? There’s still help at hand.

If travel isn’t possible, there’s still support available. It Takes a Village is a free, online webinar series designed to meet carers where they are — at home. Across four flexible sessions, you’ll hear from experts and connect with fellow carers in a safe, supportive space.

Sign up for a session today.

Support is always available 24/7.

Whatever your dementia story, support is just a phone call away. Dementia Support Australia offers a free, 24/7 helpline: 1800 699 799.

Whether you need immediate help, information about the Staying at Home program , or just someone to talk to, their team is ready to guide you.

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.