First-time delegate Arianna Power, an occupational therapist in specialist aged services for Merri Health, Melbourne, got in touch to tell us how much she enjoyed the International Dementia Conference, held in Sydney in September. We asked her to elaborate! Read on to find out what she thought...

Why did you go to IDC2024, and how would you sum up the experience?

I decided to go along to IDC2024 because some of my colleagues were presenting an e-poster. I was also attracted because it was international, but in Sydney. That doesn’t happen very often!

And it was – in a word – incredible.

The range of opinions from the podium – it was the full spectrum on all the topics. There were people living with dementia up front from the get-go, carers, researchers, medical specialists, even politicians. You truly felt like you were ‘in the arena’, with a fair representation from the relevant voices – everyone got a say.

What stood out as a highlight to you?

My area is complex care in the home, so Luke Campbell’s story (about his wife’s diagnosis of younger onset dementia) really hit home to me, especially how they managed with that through COVID. Seeing all these high-powered speakers just sitting there spellbound by him – I’m so glad people like Luke were seen and heard. I was so touched that he brought his kids along to show them that people care about this disease, and want people like their mum to live a meaningful life – not just preparing for the end, but preparing to live a life with dementia.

I loved all the chances to mingle and connect, and I loved the book signings.

I also really loved Prof John Swinton’s talk on being present. It can be a heavy conference – we’re talking about people’s lives, and very complex issues. And yet, John’s there talking about making the most of the moment, to make a difference. I loved the simplicity of that. We can control that. And it’s very hopeful.

Did you think the conference was well run?

Yes, it was very professionally done.

I chatted with Dr Tom Russ a few times, and he goes to a lot of conferences. I asked him what he thought early on and he said, “Well, I’m not bored yet!” Every time I ran into him, he’d say the same thing, right up until the very end!

And the food was excellent!

What do you think people will gain from going to future IDCs?

They’ll be re-invigorated – they’ll feel more excited about the future and be better equipped for when they go back to their own arena. I felt really affirmed because there were ideas there that we’re already implementing in our workplace.

I made fantastic connections, encountered new ideas, and am making plans for how to further enhance our service.

It was truly top-notch.

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