Committee for Lorne: Aged Care Sensory Garden OFFICIALLY OPEN

Lorne Community Hospital’s aged care sensory garden, aimed at helping improve quality of life for those living with dementia, is now officially open.

The garden was designed by Humanscape Consulting for people living with dementia, seniors and community groups, to have access to a safe, secure and tranquil outdoor space. The design brief was about user experience, enticing residents into the courtyard. Pivotal to the design development is evidence-based understanding that ‘connection with nature and gardens nourishes the senses and improves overall emotional and physical wellbeing’.

Originally when the Hospital was rebuilt in 2006, the garden did not receive a great deal of attention. After 12 years, it was time for a refresh and to design it purposefully to become an extension of the facility. There was a whole of community approach to design, detail and construction. The Community Liaison Committee provided a community perspective, a working party provided input and the Men’s Shed restored the owl sculpture.

“I love sitting outside to listen to the birds and read a book in the sun. I hope to get involved in maintaining the veggie patch and eating the produce” said LCH Aged Care Resident Sue Agar.

CEO Kate Gillan thanked the many supporters who were present, gratefully acknowledging contributions from the local community, with special mention for the generous funding received from the Lorne Op Shop.

“The Lorne Op Shop are wonderful supporters for our work, especially when there are projects that contribute to the care of our elders in this community. Their support makes the impossible, possible”.

“Sensory gardens like this one provide therapeutic activities for those living with dementia, to maximise retained cognitive
and physical abilities and lessen the confusion and agitation often associated with the condition. Highlights of our
garden include the electric pergola and pavilion, fascination area, bird garden, conversation court and the fragrant garden. And a lemon tree, no garden is complete without one”.

“Research indicated physical as well as visual access to nature had many health benefits for the aged including recovering from illness quicker, reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, assisting with better sleep patterns and aiding the natural absorption of vitamin D which is important for maintaining strong bones.

Activities encourage use of motor skills like walking and bending, reduces stress levels and promotes relaxation. There are also many mental health benefits such as increased abilities in decision-making, self-control and increased confidence and self-esteem”.

“This has a flow on effect for caregivers also, as the improved condition of their loved one reduces the worry and stress for them also,” Ms Gillan said.