About DFM Aged Care

In May 2019, Annie received a diagnosis that would change her life — and the lives of those around her. Diagnosed with dementia, Annie's response was both stoic and poignant: "Listen, it is what it is. But I know in the future I will become dependent on you, so don't forget me." These words stayed with her daughter Amanda, who, at that moment, knew she had to be prepared for the journey ahead.

Annie's life was nothing short of extraordinary. She had always been a trailblazer — a straight-A student, the first female bank manager at her bank, and a brilliant bookkeeper in her retirement. Annie’s mind had always been sharp, her intellect unwavering. She once said, "I didn't have to be the prettiest in the room; I only had to be the smartest." But dementia had slowly started to take its toll, and what used to come so easily to her began slipping away.

Amanda, who had spent over 23 years as a Montessori director, found herself learning not just about dementia, but about her mother’s specific needs — how her abilities, challenges, and preferences shaped her world. Amanda saw how these insights could be applied to help others facing similar struggles. She realised that many families were walking the same path, often without the tools or guidance they needed to navigate it.

With a deep passion for helping others and a growing understanding of dementia, Amanda set out to create something that could make a real difference: a program that would equip people with the tools they need to care for their loved ones at home. Through her research and development, she created a unique approach that blended her Montessori expertise with practical caregiving strategies — a program designed to help people with dementia live well at home, with the right support at the right time.

Amanda realised that far too many families, especially those without a medical background, were left to figure it all out on their own. Resources were scarce, and the guidance often came too late. “Every three seconds, someone is diagnosed with dementia,” Amanda said. "We need to ensure that these families don't make the same mistakes. We need to give them the support they deserve."

Driven by a vision to help families communicate with their loved ones in a meaningful way, Amanda developed a framework for care that prioritised understanding, compassion, and respect. While dementia may affect communication, Amanda’s mission became clear: “Communication may be compromised, but I will be your voice.”

Through this vision, the business was born — a company committed to providing accessible resources, home care, and activity centres for people living with dementia and other cognitive challenges. The goal was not only to create tools and programs, but to help families feel empowered to care for their loved ones at home, ensuring that everyone, no matter their age or condition, has the opportunity to live with dignity, joy, and purpose.

Today, the company is on a mission to expand its reach, to make its products and services widely available, and to support families with the resources they need. “Everybody matters,” Amanda says. “Our job is to make sure no one is left behind.”

At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to improving the lives of people with dementia and those who care for them. Through our programs, products, and services, we aim to help families manage the challenges of dementia with compassion and confidence, ensuring that every person is understood, supported, and respected.

This is just the beginning of our journey. Together, we can make a difference — one person, one family, and one community at a time.