As care needs change, finding time for everyday responsibilities, personal wellbeing and social connections can become increasingly difficult.

At Mary Potter House, located on the grounds of Calvary Health Care Kogarah in Sydney, Calvary Home Care's Day Respite Program offers support for both people living with dementia and those who care for them.

While clients enjoy activities, companionship and personalised care in a welcoming environment, their families and carers have valuable time to rest, attend appointments or simply take a break.

Family carers play an important role in helping people living with dementia remain safe, comfortable and connected to their communities.

However, balancing caring responsibilities with work, family commitments and personal needs can be demanding, particularly as a loved one's condition progresses.

Day respite services such as Mary Potter House provide an opportunity for carers to take time for themselves, knowing their loved one is being supported in an environment designed around their individual needs.

Whether it's attending an appointment, catching up with friends or enjoying some uninterrupted time to rest, these breaks can help carers look after their own wellbeing while continuing to support someone they love.

The team at Mary Potter House also works closely with families, involving carers in care planning and maintaining regular communication as their loved one's needs change.

This approach recognises that supporting the person living with dementia and supporting their carer go hand in hand.

While respite provides important support for carers, it is equally about creating positive experiences for the person attending.

At Mary Potter House, each day is designed to encourage social connection, independence and enjoyment, with activities tailored to clients' interests, preferences and abilities.

A typical day might begin with conversation and card games, followed by gentle exercise to support mobility and physical wellbeing.

Clients can also enjoy arts and crafts, cooking, bingo, trivia, music and sing-alongs, with opportunities to maintain familiar skills, express themselves and connect with others.

Meals and refreshments are provided throughout the day, along with assistance with personal care where needed.

Rather than focusing on what someone may find difficult because of dementia, the program recognises each person's strengths, life experiences and the activities that bring them enjoyment.

It's an approach that challenges a common misconception about dementia care: that respite services are primarily for carers.

At Mary Potter House, the wellbeing, dignity and independence of the person living with dementia are just as important.

For many families, the goal is to help their loved one remain living at home for as long as possible, with the right support in place.

Mary Potter House works closely with Calvary Home Care and other health services to provide exceptional coordinated, personalised support that responds to each person’s changing needs.

Clients receive personalised assessments and care planning, with support from a dedicated Respite Coordinator, support workers and access to health professionals including occupational therapists, physiotherapists and registered nurses.

Together, these services help people living with dementia maintain everyday skills, participate in meaningful activities and remain connected to their communities.

For carers, having access to reliable respite and ongoing support can make a meaningful difference to their ability to continue caring for someone at home.

As Mary Potter House approaches its first anniversary, National Carers Week provides an opportunity to recognise the families who rely on services like these and the teams who support them.

It is also an important reminder that caring for someone else should not mean putting your own wellbeing aside.