Dementia Australia has issued a statement expressing its devastation over the tragic events that led to a 95-year-old woman being hospitalised after she was tasered by police in a southern NSW nursing home.
Great grandmother, Clare Nowland, is fighting for life in hospital after being tasered on Wednesday. Staff at Yallambee Lodge nursing home near Cooma had called NSW Police to the facility after the 95-year-old reportedly took possession of a kitchen knife.
“We acknowledge the seriousness of her condition and extend our sincere sympathies to Ms Nowland and her family,” Dementia Australia said in the statement.
“While Dementia Australia is not aware of the details of what happened and is unable to comment on the circumstances, we have received calls and emails from people living with dementia, their families and carers expressing their anger and sadness for Ms Nowland and her family.”
The organisation said while situations like Ms Nowland’s were rare, tragically it had highlighted the need for everyone working across healthcare industries to receive compulsory education about dementia to increase their understanding, knowledge and skills in dementia care.
“This includes everyone working in the health, aged care and disability systems – including emergency services staff.”
“We encourage anyone with concerns about changes in behaviour related to dementia to contact Dementia Support Australia on 1800 699 799.”
