The Sustainable Personalised Interventions for Cognition, Care, and Engagement (SPICE) Program
The Sustainable Personalised Interventions for Cognition, Care, and Engagement (SPICE) program is the most comprehensive initiative of its kind in Australia. SPICE supports people with dementia and their care partners to live well with confidence, connection and dignity.
The program was developed through a collaboration between the ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ of Canberra and Canberra Health Services, with support from the Dementia Australia Research Foundation and the Dementia Australia Advocates program.
Our Core Areas of Activity
SPICE focuses on three interconnected domains:
Cognition and functional ability
Supporting people with dementia through active rehabilitation and personalised strategies that promote independence and daily functioning.
Care partner capability
Equipping care partners with education, practical tools and support to reduce stress and enhance confidence.
Engagement and wellbeing
Providing group‑based activities that build social connection, enjoyment and meaningful participation.
Our Research and Program Approach
SPICE is an innovative 10‑week program delivered by a multidisciplinary allied health team including occupational therapists, neuropsychologists, social workers, pharmacists, speech pathologists, dietitians, physiotherapists and nurses.
The program offers cognitive stimulation therapy, physical activity, group discussion, care partner education and peer support, and personalised strategies to live well at home.
Participants report improvements in quality of life, confidence and motivation. Care partners report reduced distress, greater understanding of dementia and practical strategies that support day‑to‑day life.
Our Impact
Since the pilot, the SPICE program has grown to keep up with demand that continues to far exceed available places. Through early 2026, more than 300 people have benefitted directly, with more than 50 people on the waitlist in the ACT alone.
Research has demonstrated improvements in quality of life, reductions in neuropsychiatric symptoms and reductions in associated care partner burden. Program satisfaction ratings are high, with participants wishing to continue program elements beyond completion.
SPICE provides a safe, respectful and inclusive environment where people with dementia feel understood, confident and connected.
Support SPICE
SPICE is currently only funded for residents of the ACT. Your contribution would help us to expand access to this vital program to other regions of Australia, as well as reduce long wait lists locally, helping to ensure that people with dementia and their care partners receive the strategies, support and connection they need to live well.
Support the SPICE program today and help shape a better future for people living with dementia.
UC acknowledges the Ngunnawal people, traditional custodians of the lands where Bruce campus is situated. We wish to acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of Canberra and the region. We also acknowledge all other First Nations Peoples on whose lands we gather.