Refresh Retreats

Education, support and respite for carers and their loved ones living with dementia

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What are Refresh Retreats?

The Refresh Retreats program aims to equip carers with the knowledge, tools, and support needed to care for somebody living with dementia at home, whilst their loved ones receives quality care and a simultaneous program of engaging activities.

Set within a calming, peaceful environment, the retreat runs over three days and offers an opportunity for those experiencing life with dementia to take time out for respite and connection.

What to Expect At Your Retreat

Caring for somebody living with dementia can be exhausting, and it’s important to regularly practice self-care.

During the retreat, carers can take time to relax, unwind, and receive practical support, knowing that their loved one is close by and under the care of our well-trained and experienced staff.

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"I can’t recommend this program enough. The amount of information and strategies that you can get out of something like this is amazing. It’s a great resource for both carers and the person with dementia – there are engaging and stimulating activities for them, and the care workers are fantastic. To anyone who is considering it – I’d say just go for it. You won’t regret it." - Mary, Carer

2024 Retreats

October

• North Ryde - 22 - 24 October (Tuesday - Thursday) 

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November

• Kulnurra - 5-7 November (Tuesday - Thursday) (Full)
• Blackheath - 12 - 14 November (Tuesday - Thursday) (Full)
• Campbelltown - 19 - 21 November (Tuesday - Thursday) (Full)
• Lismore - 20 - 22 November (Tuesday - Thursday) 
• Port Macquarie, 26 - 28 November (Tuesday - Thursday) (Full) 
• Bathurst - 26 - 28 November (Tuesday - Thursday)

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December

• Blacktown - 3-5 December (Tuesday - Thursday)
• Pokolbin - 3-5 December (Tuesday - Thursday) (Full)

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How do people access the retreat program?

The Refresh Retreats are available to people living with dementia who are supported to remain at home, either from a co-residing carer or one residing at a separate address.

For new clients, please contact us on 1300 275 227 or fill in the enquiry form below.

This program is fully funded by the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care and there is no charge to attend.©

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“The change of scene has really helped – with the help of the seminar leaders, I’ve been able to review our situation at home from afar, and see where we can improve things.” - Linda, Carer

Carer Education Topics

Carers can participate in the following topics during their retreat.

Topics include

• Understanding and managing dementia.
• Accessing community care services.
• Looking after yourself.
• Planning for the future.
• Managing behaviour changes associated with dementia.
• Support for transition into respite care.
• Meaningful engagement: how to continue enjoyable activities for longer.
• Managing physical changes: mobility, continence, communication.

Frequently asked questions

What are Refresh Retreats?

Refresh Retreats are an opportunity for persons living with dementia or cognitive changes and their carer to participate in a shared respite experience that promotes health and wellbeing. Our focus is on fostering meaningful connections between the person living with dementia and their carer, as well as supporting guests to develop informal networks for ongoing support and friendship.

What will the carer be doing whilst at the Retreat?

Carers participate in an educational program aimed at equipping them with the skills, knowledge and capability to better support the person living with dementia to remain living in the community. Topics covered will include:

• Understanding and managing dementia
• The importance of self-care
• The availability of aged care services and support
• Future planning
• Preparing and accessing respite care

What will the person living with dementia be doing whilst at the Retreat?

The person living with dementia will be participating in a range of centre-based and community based respite activities whilst their carer is attending the educational program

Will the person living with dementia and their carer have the opportunity to spend time together during the Retreat?

Afternoons and evenings will offer shared activities for both the person living with dementia and their carer. In addition, there will be unscheduled time during the Retreat, allowing all guests to relax and unwind, and enjoy the local surroundings.

Who can attend a Refresh Retreat?

Eligibility to participate is based on three criteria including:

• The person has been diagnosed with dementia and is in the early stages of the disease
• The person living with dementia, and their carer intend to continue to living in the community for the foreseeable future
• Both the person living with dementia and their carer wish to attend the Retreat

How long are the Retreats?

The Retreats are held over 3 days and 2 nights

Where are the Retreats held?

The Retreats are held in comfortable, home-like settings throughout NSW and the ACT. Retreat guests will have access to private accommodation, including ensuite facilities. Meals will be served in common dining areas.

How often are Refresh Retreats held?

The Retreats are held throughout the year. The schedule is available on the BaptistCare Refresh Retreat website.

Is there a cost to attend a Refresh Retreat?

Refresh Retreats are funded by the Commonwealth Government and there is no cost to attend.

How can I find out more about the Refresh Retreats?

Call BaptistCare on 1300 275 227 or email refreshretreats@baptistcare.org.au

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Louise, Senior Dementia Advisor

“It’s been incredible to see the ‘light-bulb’ moments for carers during these retreats, as they learn new strategies on how to manage the behaviours of their loved one’s dementia at home. We’ve seen some close friendships form too, with many carers swapping numbers at the end of the retreat so that they can stay in touch.”