Hi, I’m Katie Conciatore.
I’m a dementia nurse, educator, and advocate based in Sydney, Australia. With over 15 years of experience in aged care and dementia support, I’ve dedicated my career to improving the lives of people living with dementia and those who care for them.
My Journey
My passion for dementia care began early in my nursing career, where I saw firsthand how person-centred, non-pharmacological approaches could transform care. Over the years, I’ve led several impactful programs that continue to shape care delivery across health and aged care settings.
Some highlights include:
Music & Memory Program: I led the implementation of this personalised playlist initiative, reducing anxiety and enhancing wellbeing for hospital patients with dementia. The program won a health award and has since been referenced in the Australian Journal of Primary Health.
Blacktown Dementia Sensory Garden: A project I led to create a therapeutic outdoor space designed with evidence-based Enabling Environment principles, offering comfort and connection for patients and families.
Volunteer-Led Craft & Sensory Tools: I developed sensory mats, “fiddle cuffs,” and comfort items for people with dementia, while leading a community group that also made patient care items like chemotherapy bags and quilts.
Dining with Dementia: A quality improvement program that supported nutritional and social wellbeing through mealtimes.
Leadership & Recognition
My work has been recognised through:
*A health award for the Music & Memory initiative
*Multiple awards for dementia education innovation
*Recognition for nurse leadership in aged care and behaviour support
I have also contributed to the creation of nationwide dementia policies, care programs, and clinical frameworks, introducing innovative best-practice models that support both people living with dementia and their families. My work has helped shape quality standards, staff education, behavioural support protocols, and carer-focused approaches used across Australia.
I’ve also been involved in:
*Dementia research and policy reform, including partnerships with universities and advocacy groups
*Dementia Australia’s programs, delivering carer education and psychosocial support through the Living with Dementia series
*National conference presentations on:
-Managing behaviours in dementia
-Dementia, delirium and pain management.
-Navigating the dementia journey through hospital and the community.
-Brain changes in dementia
You can read more in my Understanding Dementia Newsletter, which I authored to provide ongoing guidance to carers and professionals.
Why I Started Discussing Dementia
Dementia doesn’t come with a manual—but support should. I created Discussing Dementia to ensure families, carers, and health professionals can access practical, evidence-based support—delivered with warmth and clarity.
Here, I offer:
1:1 Coaching & Carer Support
Behavioural Management Plans
Education for Professionals & Families.
Helpful Articles, Tools & Printables
Let’s Connect
Whether you’re a family member facing change, a nurse wanting training, or someone planning ahead—you’re not alone. I’m here to support you with calm, clarity, and kindness.
Discussing Dementia 