Australian-first respite program announced

MORE than one and a half million dollars in funding has been announced to offer GreenCare Respite in the Loddon-Mallee region.

The program will be an Australian first and will use escapes to provide a better quality of life for those living with early-stage dementia and their carers.

Organisations including Heathcote Health, Heathcote Dementia Alliance, John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research, La Trobe University, Princes Court Aged Care in Mildura and Rural Care Australia will come together to deliver the GreenCare Respite program.

“There is evidence that for a person diagnosed with dementia, spending time in nature increases self-worth and autonomy which are often lost following a dementia diagnosis,” said Dan Douglass, CEO of Heathcote Health.

“Green care activities such as sensory gardens and horticultural activities can improve wellbeing, mood, and sleep as well as reduce disruptive behaviour and the use of psychotropic drugs.”

Early-stage dementia patients and the carers will have the opportunity to be immersed in the natural environment and green spaces, with the project taking place throughout an area ranging Heathcote, Bendigo and Mildura.

Dementia inclusive activities will be on offer for participants as well as overnight eco stays to reduce the care burden on carers.

Business operators, community organisations, accommodation providers and participating respite providers will also be provided with education related to caring for people with dementia.

“For the caregiver, the GreenCare Respite Project offers time away to rest and maintain social connections and work, as well as the reassurance that the person they care for is also enjoying their time away and being looked after by a trained PLWD care provider, alleviating the guilt of handing the responsibility of caring for their loved one to someone else,” said Mr Douglass.

“But the project also enables people with dementia and their carers to share engaging experiences in nature together which can freshen and enrich the bond between them.”