Our GreenConnect Dementia Respite project is dedicated to providing meaningful support and respite experiences for people in the early to mid-stages of a dementia diagnosis and their carers, be they family members or friends. We offer engaging activities to people living outside of residential aged care facilities, tailored to diverse levels of ability, function, and personal preference.

How to get involved

To ensure our services are suited to your needs and provide the best possible support, we have an essential 3-step assessment process for all potential participants.

Step 1:
Eligibility Assessment

Before joining our activities, every new participant undergoes an eligibility assessment. This step is crucial for us to understand the specific needs and requirements of each person and to determine if our programs are the right fit.

What to expect during assessment

  • Initial registration
    When you express interest in attending an event, you’ll need to provide some basic details about the participant and their carer.

  • Scheduling the assessment
    Following registration, our team will contact you to arrange a comprehensive assessment. Given the high demand for our services, scheduling this meeting may take some time.

  • Assessment meeting
    This detailed conversation involves understanding the participant’s current stage of dementia, their abilities, and any specific care requirements. We also consider the preferences of both the person with dementia and their carer, to tailor our support effectively.

Step 2:
Care Planning

After the initial assessment, we move to a collaborative care planning phase. Guided by principles of equity, inclusivity, person-centred care, autonomy, and dignity, this process ensures that both the person with dementia and their carer are central to the planning.

What care planning involves

  • Strength-based approach
    We focus on the strengths and capabilities of the participant, building a plan that enhances their quality of life and promotes engagement.

  • Collaboration
    This plan is developed in partnership with the person with dementia and their carer, ensuring their preferences and goals are integral to the support provided.

  • Carer involvement
    We consider how to best offer respite to carers, providing a change of pace in supportive settings. Carers attend alongside their loved ones, and both can choose how much they participate in the day’s activities, allowing space to recharge while still being present together.

Step 3:
Activities, experiences and accommodation

With the care plan in place, participants can look forward to a range of activities and experiences designed to be enriching and enjoyable.

What to expect

  • Nature-based activities
    Our events are often held in serene, natural settings, offering a refreshing and calming environment that supports well-being.

  • Regional availability
    We offer activities in various regions, making it easier for participants to find events close to home.

  • Visit our Activities page
    For a list of upcoming activities and to find nature-based experiences near you, please visit our Activities page.

Why an Assessment?

Our commitment is to provide a supportive and enriching environment. To achieve this, it’s vital to assess whether our activities align with the needs of potential participants. The assessment process helps ensure that everyone who joins our events is in the right place to benefit fully from our offerings. This step is crucial to prevent any disappointment from ineligibility and to ensure that the activities are both safe and enjoyable for all involved.

If a participant is found ineligible for the GreenConnect Dementia Respite project after the assessment, our Respite Care Coordinator will provide compassionate and professional support to explore alternative options. They will assist with referrals to other respite services or supports that may better suit the participant’s needs, ensuring access to appropriate resources and care.

Our project focuses on supporting those in the early to mid-stages stages of dementia and their carers. We provide experiences designed to foster connection, engagement, and respite, all within a safe and understanding community. Each event is carefully crafted to cater to varying levels of ability and personal preferences, allowing participants to engage comfortably and meaningfully.

Please note: Completing the assessment does not automatically guarantee participation in all activities. Each event is planned with specific criteria to maintain a safe and supportive environment. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we strive to provide the best care and support through our activities.

Who we serve