Carole Levy
Like a home away from home, Grant Lodge offers an immediately welcoming environment for aged care residents and their family and visitors. And with a sensory garden opening this year, Grant Lodge becomes even more hospitable – particularly for people with dementia.
Djerriwarrh Health Services (DjHS) manages 30-bed Grant Lodge, which shares a site with Bacchus Marsh and Melton Regional Hospital, providing residents immediate access to emergency medical services. That’s one big benefit among many others, DjHS chief executive Belinda Scott points out.
“Something we’re particularly excited about is the sensory garden – and memory support lounge – purpose-designed to help stimulate residents’ memories through all five senses, allowing sight, smell, touch, sound and taste to be safely explored,” Ms Scott says.
“The spaces will be used for either calming or stimulation, depending on individual needs. Current dementia research shows that residents with dementia find these type of spaces enjoyable and relaxing, while improving their mood, behaviour and attention to surroundings.”
Ms Scott adds that there’s another special room, ‘The Haven’, established by the therapist team.
“This peaceful, relaxing space for all our residents to enjoy is for such activities as art and crafts, or celebrating special occasions. Families often organise to have a meal in The Haven with their loved one in our care.”
Grant Lodge proudly supports Dementia Care Australia’s quality-of-life initiative.
“This gives our residents the respect and dignity to maintain quality of life, whether with dementia or at life’s end stages. Respite beds are also available for families needing short-term relief in care.”
What else does Grant Lodge provide?
• Fully qualified nurses deliver high-quality care, every day around the clock
• Allied health professionals assist with exercise and movement programs, and offer podiatry, occupational therapy and dietician services, with others available as needed.
• Daily freshly cooked meals come from the kitchen, which caters for specific dietary requirements. Residents are welcome to join the kitchen crew to help with special occasions for staff and residents.
• Residents stay connected to their local community via weekly trips to parks and gardens, restaurants and churches, as well as special lunches.
Djerriwarrh Health Services – Grant Lodge, 6 Clarinda Street, Bacchus Marsh. To arrange a tour, call 5367 9627.
