For Joan Harper, a day at Stella Anderson Nursing Home is the highlight of her week.
A regular catch up as part of Bendigo Health’s Day Respite Program allows her to socialise while she does what she loves – colouring and gardening.
“I love the people and love getting out and about,” Joan said.
In partnership with Bendigo Health’s Carer Support and Residential services, the program is as much for the hard-working carers as their loved ones who need support.
Joan’s daughter Sandi said while she loved her mother dearly, it was good to see her thriving while she had time for herself.
“Mum has dementia and I wanted her to not only get out and meet people, but have a creative outlet again,” Sandi said.
“While mum is in the program once a week, it gives me time to go to appointments and do things I may not be able to do.
“But she also looks forward to it every week, she’s got a beautiful outlook on life and it’s great to see her happy. It benefits both of us.”
The Day Respite Program takes place at Stella Anderson from 10am until 3pm on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
Participants are encouraged to take part in a range of Lifestyle-type activities such as crafts and music, as well as go on outings around the city and more.
Day Respite Program staff member Ana Guijarro said it was great to see the positive impact this program had on the participants as well as their carers.
“It’s a really valuable service that benefits everyone,” she said.
“You can often see carers physically be okay with the work they’re doing, but it can take a mental toll.
"This program is a good break for them and they know their loved one is in a safe place.
“It’s also a good stepping stone to full-time care if people need it in the future."