The Sunshine Hospital dementia management unit has unveiled its new dementia-friendly garden which is designed to enhance wellbeing and comfort for patients who often have an extended stay in hospital.
According to Western Health, the garden’s redesign seeks to minimise behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia such as agitation, anxiety, confusion, and aggression.
Divisional director of aged, general medicine, and subacute services Kellie Vivekanantham said the garden refurbishment is part of broader improvements to enhance care for people living with dementia.
“We are incredibly grateful to Lendlease for enabling these vital improvements so we can provide a safe, welcoming, and fit-for-purpose space to support patients living with dementia and their carers, and loved ones during their stay,” Ms Vivekanantham said.
The garden was designed utilising dementia friendly design principles, and features sensory plants, including a new orange tree, a new water feature and bird bath, a workshop and potting shed, a new clothesline, safer walking paths, a rain gauge and spaces for quiet reflection, activities and games, or family gatherings.
