Staying at Home program

Supporting carers to help people who live with dementia stay at home longer

A respite and wellbeing retreat for carers and their loved ones

Home can be a place of familiarity, joy and comfort.

Staying at Home is a free overnight retreat for people living with dementia and their carers. It is designed to upskill carers to help the person they are supporting remain at home for as long as possible.

Staying at Home is supported by funding from the Australian Government under the Dementia and Aged Care Services Fund.

 

Experience respite together 

Designed as an overnight retreat over three days and two nights, this program offers a supportive environment to learn about respite together, so you both feel comfortable and enjoy the experience.

With a strong focus on wellbeing and self-care, carers learn to navigate supporting a person living with dementia. The person living with dementia experiences tailored respite support to help them continue to enjoy meaningful activities and stay at home for longer.

You will have the chance to meet other carers and people living with dementia.

 

Connect with others

Being a carer for someone you love can sometimes be challenging and isolating.

It can help to know you’re not alone. Staying at Home creates opportunities for you to meet others going through the same experiences in a supportive environment.

Through tailored support, education and practical suggestions from experienced staff, you will be equipped to support someone living with dementia to remain in their home.

 

Strengthen your knowledge and skills

You will explore a range of topics, such as:

  • the impact of a dementia diagnosis

  • planning and preparing for respite

  • accessing community care supports and services

  • self-care

  • planning for the future

  • navigating physical and behavioural changes associated with dementia

  • meaningful engagement and activities

  • equipping your home and property for safety.

Natalie, family carer

"The retreat gave me the opportunity to spend quality time with my father and better understand his needs. I now have more confidence in my ability to support him as a carer."

Accessing a retreat

Staying at Home is available to people with a dementia diagnosis, or in the process of obtaining a diagnosis, who are moderately independent with daily activities and supported by a relative, partner or close friend. Both the person living with dementia and their carer need to be willing to attend the retreat.

You can self-refer or enquire on someone else’s behalf with their permission. For information about the retreats email SAHP@unitingcommunities.org, phone 8202 5800 or register your interest via the form below.

Next available dates

  • Port Elliot | 23-25 September 2025

  • McLaren Vale | 30 September - 2 October 2025

Register your interest

Frequently asked questions

Is there a cost to attend?
Do I need a referral from My Aged Care, or another assessment for this program?
Who is eligible?
I don’t live with my loved one, but I am their carer – can we attend?
I am a carer but I don’t live with my loved one, are we eligible?
There isn’t a retreat in my area or a date I can attend – how can I participate?
Contact Information
Staying at Home program