When you’re supporting someone living with dementia, it can be hard to know what to do when communication changes or behaviours shift. You may be left second-guessing what is causing it or worrying you will say or do the wrong thing. That is why Peninsula Villages has appointed Tess George as its Clinical Nurse Specialist in Dementia. In this role, she supports residents, families and staff by translating dementia care into practical, person-centred strategies that make everyday life calmer, safer and more connected.
Tess’s role is to help families and staff understand what is happening, work out what the person may be trying to communicate, and respond in ways that protect dignity and reduce distress.
“Dementia is not a normal part of ageing,” Tess says. “Behaviours caused by changes in the brain do not define who a person is, nor do they erase their life story, identity or the love shared with those around them.”
For Tess, the most important question is often: what is this person trying to tell us?
People living with dementia are sometimes unable to express their needs in conventional ways. Tess helps give residents a voice by looking beyond behaviour to what may be driving it, then working with the care team and families to respond thoughtfully. This may involve identifying patterns and triggers, such as changes in routine, overstimulation, pain, fatigue or confusion, adjusting the environment, or changing the way the team communicates so it better supports the person in front of them.
Her focus is advocacy and collaboration. She works alongside care teams to implement tailored approaches that support communication, reduce distress and promote wellbeing. She also supports families with clear, practical guidance so they can better understand dementia and stay connected to the person behind the diagnosis.
“My goal is to understand what a person is trying to tell us,” she says. “When we work together as a team and listen closely, we can make a meaningful difference in their everyday lives.”
Tess gained her nursing registration in Australia in 2012 and began her career in residential aged care shortly afterwards. She also worked in an acute hospital setting in India and later held a range of aged care roles in New Zealand. In 2022, Tess returned to Australia and joined Peninsula Villages after working with two large aged care providers in Sydney.
Outside of work, Tess enjoys long drives with her family, discovering new cafés and restaurants, and expressing her creativity through painting, hand embroidery, artificial flower making and photography.
Tess’s dedication, empathy and collaborative approach reflect Peninsula Villages’ commitment to person-centred, respectful and compassionate care. Through her work, she continues to encourage understanding and connection for people living with dementia, and for the families and staff who care for them.
For more information, please contact Peninsula Villages.
