Official Launch of Innovative $1.7 Million Nature-Based Respite Project for Dementia Care
In a ground-breaking initiative aimed at revolutionising dementia care, the GreenConnect Dementia Respite was officially launched on Wednesday 10 April in Bendigo. The Project heralds a new era of nature-based support for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. With funding of $1.7 million from the Australian Government, this trailblazing three-year Project is set to redefine the landscape of dementia care in the Loddon-Mallee region.
Sandra Slatter, the GreenConnect Project Manager and President of the Heathcote Dementia Alliance.
The launch took place at the Atisha Buddhist Centre in Bendigo, where a specially designed garden was unveiled. This unique garden, named ‘Jin Lap’, is believed to be the first of its kind in Australia, catering specifically to the needs of individuals with dementia. Alongside the garden, an online platform, www.greenconnect.org.au, was also launched, providing a hub for information, news, and event registrations related to the GreenConnect Project.
At the heart of the Project is the mission to enhance the quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers through immersion in natural environments, nature-based experiences, and short-break accommodation. Sandra Slatter, the GreenConnect Project Manager and President of the Heathcote Dementia Alliance, emphasised the Project’s aim to help individuals with dementia live in the present moment and find joy in their daily experiences.
“We’ve already seen early success with numerous trips to dementia-inclusive gardens, bush reserves, wineries, outdoor festivals, and overnight retreats,” said Sandra at the Bendigo launch. “Being in nature enhances wellbeing and relaxation, rekindles memories, ignites the senses, and lessens confusion and agitation.”
The Project will continue to develop the special garden at the Atisha Centre, featuring ‘garden-to-fork’ plots designed to create calm and purpose for those with dementia. Additionally, a sensory based ‘Garden of Memories’ will be established in the nearby town of Heathcote, incorporating aromas, colours, textures, sounds, and movements to aid healing and meditation.
The ‘jin lab’ garden at the Atisha Centre, featuring ‘garden-to-fork’ plots designed to create calm and purpose for those with dementia.
Addressing the pressing need for better support for carers, Sandra emphasised GreenConnect’s commitment to providing affordable and accessible nature-inspired initiatives to alleviate the impact on caregivers. The Project also aims to promote diversity and inclusion by involving First Nations, LGBTQIA+, and culturally and linguistically diverse communities in dementia respite programs.
The launch event featured heartfelt reflections from program participants, including Marg Rae and Pamela Aspinall, who shared their personal experiences and perspectives on the Project’s impact. From Thupten Chodak’s serene presence to the celebratory musical interludes by the Mugi Rahayu gamelan ensemble, the launch culminated in a poignant tribute to the transformative power of community and connection.
La Trobe University researchers will evaluate the social and economic impact of the GreenConnect Project, with the potential to expand the innovative model of care to other sectors such as disability, mental health and palliative care.
As GreenConnect embarks on its journey, it stands poised to catalyse a paradigm shift in dementia care, guided by a consortium of dedicated organisations committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and families affected by dementia.
The Welcome to Country ceremony at the launch of GreenConnect at the Atisha Centre.
The launch featured celebratory musical interludes by the Mugi Rahayu gamelan ensemble.