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Talking Heads Program (Melbourne)

The Talking Heads Program (Melbourne) is a face-to-face, comprehensive, evidence-backed group program designed to boost cognitive function and communication skills for individuals with mild to moderate dementia.

Communication and Cognitive Support: This program is built on evidence-based practices drawn from various approaches, including Cognitive Stimulation Therapy, Reminiscence Therapy, Orientation Therapy, specific cognitive and communication rehabilitation interventions, and strategy implementation. While these approaches cannot ‘cure’ dementia in the long-term, most have shown positive outcomes related to maintaining/improving cognitive function, communication skills, mood and overall quality of life in people with mild to moderate dementia when engaging in structured, therapeutic activities.

Social Connection and Well-Being: Beyond communication and cognitive exercises, this program fosters meaningful social engagement. The small group setting encourages interaction and conversation, helping reduce feelings of isolation while promoting emotional well-being. Building connections with others who understand your experiences adds an important layer of support, making cognitive stimulation not only fun but emotionally fulfilling too.

Expert Facilitation: Led by a Speech Pathologist with over 18 years of experience in dementia care, this program is designed to meet the specific needs of each participant. Activities are personalized to accommodate different communication and cognitive levels, ensuring that everyone can participate to their best ability.

Supportive Environment: Designed to be fun and engaging, the program fosters a stress-free environment where participants can engage in activities without pressure. The focus is on enjoyment, confidence, and building cognitive/communication skills in setting, by which everyone is encouraging.

Let's have some fun!

Who: Groups of 6-8 people with mild-moderate dementia. Facilitated by Lauren Kiddle (Speech Pathologist).

When: 1 hour per week for approximately 10 weeks.

Where: Ivanhoe Library, 275 Upper Heidelberg Rd, Ivanhoe VIC 3079

Cost: $55 per session

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at hello@neuroplasticfantastic.com.au if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Do I require a referral?

No. All participants can self-refer. However, to assist with determining eligibility, planning and goal-setting, reports from relevant medical and allied health professionals are encouraged.

How many sessions are in each program block?

There are 4 program blocks each year, running during school terms. In 2025, these blocks are:

Term 1: 28th January - 4th April (10 weeks)

Term 2: 22nd April - 4th July (11 weeks)

Term 3: 21st July - 19th September (9 weeks)

Term 4: 6th October - 19th December (11 weeks)

What might a typical session look like?

Below is an example of a session format, including activities and target areas. Depending on the participant goals, activities are often modified to provide both challenge and achievement in a fun, comfortable environment. NB: Many communication and cognitive skills are targeted in every task, thus below is not an exhaustive list.

THEME: MELBOURNE CUP

9.30am: Meet and greet (5mins)

Targeting: social communication, short-term memory (recalling names/other info), writing (name tags)

9.35am: Recalling names (10mins)

Targeting: memory strategies for recalling name of horse trainer (ie. strategies for encoding, retaining, retrieving)

9.45am: Word-finding (10mins)

Targeting: word generation, strategies for word-finding difficulties related to horses/horse-racing/Melbourne Cup (ie. association, describing, cueing, non-verbal - drawing, writing, gestures)

9.55am: Trivia (25mins)

Targeting: Orientation, sustained attention, long-term memory, processing/comprehension of auditory/written/pictorial information, social communication, problem-solving, reasoning, inferencing.

10.20am: Recalling names (5mins) - review of previous activity

Targeting: memory strategies for recalling name of unfamiliar horse trainer (ie. strategies for encoding, retaining, retrieving)

10.25am: Review of session and discuss home practice (5mins)

Targeting: external memory strategies (e.g. write in diary to bring object for next session), recall and relay of information to carers at pick-up

What is the cost?

Each group session costs $55 per participant. An invoice will be sent following the session. Payments are to be made prior to attending next session. Cancellations are charged at $10.

Can I use funding from my Home Care Package?

Funding may be obtained via your Home Care Package. Please contact us for more information.

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Talking Heads Program (Melbourne)

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Frequently Asked Questions

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