This Dementia Action Week (15-21 September) the whole community is challenged to reach out and reconnect to someone impacted by dementia because nobody can do it alone.

Dementia doesn’t just impact the person living with the condition and their immediate carers; it also impacts their friends, family and wider social network.

According to Dementia Australia, people living with dementia often experience social isolation and loneliness which can further drive stigma and discrimination.

With an estimated 433,300 Australians living with dementia and 1.7 million people involved in their care, chances are you know someone who is impacted by dementia.

UMFC’s Support for Carers Program provides welcoming spaces for carers of people living with dementia to connect, share experiences and receive support at carer groups in several locations, including Wangaratta, Beechworth and Myrtleford.

The groups allow carers to take time out for themselves and are a beneficial resource for increasing their knowledge on caring and dementia whilst providing safe spaces through shared experiences.

UMFC acting chief executive officer Kath Kerin said living with dementia—whether personally or as a carer—can be incredibly isolating.

"At UMFC, we believe that nobody should have to face it alone," she said.

"We’re here to connect carers with local support groups, and short term assistance when a little extra help is needed.

"Dementia Action Week is a chance to remind our community that help is available, and connection is key."

Support for Carers collaborate with services, such as Dementia Australia, to provide information, workshops and education to carers and the broader community to increase aware of dementia and enhance support to people living with a dementia and their care networks.

Short-term services can be arranged by Support for Carers to help promote carer wellbeing and support the care relationship.

For more information about UMFC's Support for Carers Program, visit www.umfc.com.au, email admin@umfc.com.au or call UMFC on (02) 6055 8000.

For more information about Dementia Action Week, visit https://www.dementia.org.au/.