April Update
Over the past few months, our team at GreenConnect has been diligently laying the foundations for our ground-breaking project. Designed as an innovative-first pilot initiative for the Loddon-Mallee, our goal is to elevate the quality of life for carers and those they support, particularly those in the early stages of dementia, by offering tailored respite experiences outside of traditional aged care facilities.
Led by our dedicated team comprising a site coordinator, support worker, respite care coordinators in both Bendigo and Mildura regions, and a Care Friends coordinator, we are committed to ensuring that every participant, whether carer or person with dementia, enjoys enriching experiences during activities, excursions, or overnight stays.
GreenConnect introduces a novel approach to respite care, emphasising nature-based activities, experiences, and accommodation in safe, dementia-inclusive environments. Our aim is to fill the gaps in traditional respite care services and provide opportunities for meaningful engagement and relaxation outside the confines of aged care facilities.
This month’s carer spotlight in our news stories is on Pamela Aspinall, a resident of Bendigo who fulfils the crucial role of caregiver for her husband Kevin. Kevin was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. As a member of the CarerConnect group, Pamela is an integral contributor to the GreenConnect Project, actively participating in various activities and providing essential feedback to assess their suitability for the Project.
Education and Training
Throughout our three-year Project, we’ll be developing a series of manuals and modules for GreenConnect. These will culminate into a comprehensive toolkit by the end of the Project, offering valuable resources for various aspects of our initiatives.
These resources will cover essential topics such as recruiting Respite Care Coordinators, forming and managing CarerConnect and Care Friends groups, and assessing and accrediting business operators. From recruitment strategies to training requirements, we’re committed to providing valuable support for all aspects of our initiatives.
Keep an eye out for updates as we work towards enhancing the quality of care and support provided through the GreenConnect Project.
Partnerships
We’re excited to announce our partnership with My Dementia Companion, an invaluable resource for both carers and individuals with dementia.
Through this collaboration, we’re able to share insights and learnings gathered from our interactions with carers and those they support. For example, our team have observed the tendency for carers to quickly answer questions on behalf of individuals with dementia, inadvertently depriving them of the opportunity to respond. As Dot from our CarerConnect Group aptly described, answering a question is akin to a filing cabinet being overturned, requiring time for the right “file” to be located to answer the question.
My Dementia Companion offers personalised guidance tailored to each person’s specific needs, making the dementia journey more manageable. Simply answer five straightforward questions and the app provides personalised support, including practical tips and information. It’s a user-friendly tool that puts essential resources right at a person’s fingertips, ensuring they have the support they need every step of the way.
www.mydementiacompanion.com.au
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories, exciting updates and upcoming events in the world of GreenConnect Dementia Respite. We look forward to navigating this journey together toward greater wellbeing and fulfilment for all.