What a little alfresco can do

Did you know that a well-designed outdoor space can do wonders for older people and those living with dementia? The sights and sounds of the outdoors can stimulate their senses and improve their overall wellbeing.

Nature has a way of calming the senses and in Lenka Kapitan’s case, it also helps to calm the nerves. Lenka has dementia and finds solace in the outdoors whenever she feels anxious.

Since her backyard had a mini makeover recently, Lenka has been spending more time outdoors –especially when she has her panic attacks. While the modifications were not extensive, the revamped backyard has improved Lenka’s quality of life significantly, according to Leanne Reilly, BlueCross Care Advisor. now seeing great improvements in Lenka’s mood. Prior to the modifications, she didn’t have a safe outdoor space to use."

“The front of her house faces a busy main road and the backyard was unsafe for her to use due to cracked concrete and rubble, posing a huge risk for falls,” says Leanne.

While waiting for a home care package to be available, Lenka was referred to the Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) program by My Aged Care. Through the program managed by BlueCross, Lenka received allied health support to help her stay independent and safe at home. Part of the modifications to her backyard were funded by the program.

“The program covered the cost of the concreting to provide safe access and reduce falls risk for Lenka. Other modifications such as the new artificial grass lawn and fence were paid for by Lenka’s family. The aesthetic and functional transformation has been beneficial for Lenka who is now motivated to make full use of her backyard with her walker,” says Leanne.

A government-funded program, STRC is designed to help eligible people regain their independence and optimise their wellbeing. Delivered for up to 56 days, therapy and support can include domestic assistance, personal care, allied health and also home modifications, as in Lenka’s case. BlueCross is currently supporting Lenka with her second STRC package.

Robert Putamorsi Chief Executive Officer