HELPING FAMILIES - Minister launches book by local health professional

A new resource to help families whose loved ones suffer a decline in thinking and behaviour, was launched recently by the Federal Minister for Ageing Kevin Andrews.

Kay Elson hosted the launch of “Midlife’s Challenge: Understanding and Coping with Decline in Thinking and Behaviour”, a book by local Tamborine Mountain resident Delaune Pollard.
“Delaune has written a very important book aimed at helping adult children and other family members of older Australians who experience difficulties,” Mrs Elson said.
“We often focus on physical problems, but for families the most devastating thing can be witnessing a decline in thinking. Illnesses such a Alzheimer’s, and dementia are often so much more difficult to deal with than obvious physical decline.”
Mrs Elson said that Minister Kevin Andrews praised the book at the launch describing it as “very practical, very honest, very helpful”.
Delaune Pollard has drawn on her experience over many decades as an Occupational Therapist and of studying cognitive disability, to write the book.

“It’s certainly an important resource that can help people at a difficult and very stressful time of their lives. Often they’ve just raised their own children, are looking to enjoy some “freedom” and they find themselves having to deal with and make decisions about their parents’ care.”
“This book has practical advice about the emotions and challenges people face at this time - and where to go for help,” Mrs Elson said.
Anyone who would like to know more about the book, or where it can be purchased, can contact Delaune Pollard directly at delaune@allencogadvisor.com

Delaune Pollard (centre) at the launch of her book "Midlife's Challenge" with Kay Elson, MP Federal Member for Forde (left) and The Hon Kevin Andrews, MP Federal Minister for Ageing, Australia.

Group of Occupational Therapists deep in conversation.

BOOK LAUNCH

Article placed in the OT Australia - Qld Newsletter July 2002

Anne-Marie Hunter and I had the honour of representing the Association at the launch of Delaune Pollard's book "Midlife's Challenge" in June.  The book was launched by the Federal Minister for Ageing, the Hon. Kevin Andrews, and the book was widely praised by the event's speakers as an important resource for health professionals, as well as the public.  It was wonderful to see so many Occupational Therapists attending the afternoon event, to help Delaune and her family celebrate her wonderful achievement. Delaune has kindly donated copies of her book to the OT AUSTRALIA - Qld library for those wishing to borrow it.  For those wishing to purchase a copy of the book (a must for Occupational Therapy Departments!), please contact the OT AUSTRALIA - Qld office.

Article written by Angela Thynne, President.