Meet Tanya Bade: A BlueCare Carer Transforming Dementia Care

Dementia Action Week is here! Meet BlueCare Personal Carer Tanya Bade, who is having a major impact in the lives of many Queenslanders living with dementia.

Dementia rates are on the rise in Queensland, with current estimates at around 94,000 individuals living with the condition and projections suggesting this number could reach 207,000 by 2058. To meet this increasing demand, BlueCare launched the Dementia Squad and the In-Home Respite (IHR) Care Program in July 2022, aiming to transform dementia care across the state.

As a member of the original Dementia Squad, I’m proud to be part of a team that now includes 450 personal carers who are specially trained, or in the process of completing their qualification - and we’re still growing. What’s more, our dementia patients and carers are also supported by their local neighbourhood, making sure they also have access to local team support and coordination for all of their care. As Dementia Carers, our role includes intensive training through TAFE or Dementia Australia, which provides us with the specialised skills and knowledge needed for exceptional care.

After completing our training, we meet clients in person to ensure we’re a great match both professionally and personally. Each client typically works with about three of us, although the team size can be adjusted to fit their needs.

Our program offers flexibility, providing care options that range from short-term support to 24/7 in-home care. This flexibility allows families to take necessary breaks without the stress of moving their loved ones to residential care. It gives families the opportunity to recharge, knowing their loved ones are cared for by someone they trust.