A GENEROUS donation has opened the doors of a newly renovated outdoor space, offering fresh air and freedom of movement to elderly residents from a local aged care facility.
The Millicent Lions Club and the Australian Lions Club Foundation funded the courtyard upgrades at Sheoak Lodge after receiving a proposal from the Millicent and District Health Advisory Council.
The area had not been renovated for almost four decades and the uneven paving surface made it difficult for residents to move independently without the risk of falling and inflicting an injury.
The installation of a new rubber surface reduces associated risks and allows residents to maintain and support their functional capacity and independence.
Millicent and District Hospital executive officer and director of nursing Michelle de Wit thanked the Lions Club for its generosity at the official opening of the courtyard area last week.
She said a number of the residents used the area regularly since the rubber surface had been installed, adding the impact of falls had been reduced.
“By upgrading the space to be more functional through this community effort, we can support our residents to be more independent,” Ms de Wit said.
“Residents are able to walk freely with minimal supervision in an area that provides a purpose designed walking track, sensory garden and a more functional outdoor space.
“It is such a wonderful donation from the Lions Club and we are grateful for their assistance on providing a high-quality sensory space to better support the health and well being of our aged care residents.”
Ms de Wit said the surface appearance was also a huge benefit of the renovations, especially for residents suffering with dementia who would familiarise it to grass.
Sheoak Lodge will look at completing more work in the courtyard in the “not so distant” future including sensory and touch with plants and herbs for residents.
The Millicent Lions Club donated $5500 for the project, which was matched by the Australian Lions Foundation.
