Resources

‘Small scale living’ or ‘household models’ of residential aged care are now proliferating across the world as an alternative to institutional models, but what are the features that make them work, what does make home, home?

In this article, Dr Laura Tierney discusses what makes activities meaningful to older adults living with dementia, stressing the importance of ensuring activities are enjoyable, suited to the person, and related to personal goals. 

This article from the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Journal describes the role, importance and benefits of gardens and gardening for the wellbeing of older adults.

This webpage from Aged Care Guide describes various leisure activities available in nursing homes such as community outings, dress-up days and special occasions and other lifestyle needs. 

In a world where generations are becoming increasingly segregated, researchers from Griffith University have made a groundbreaking effort to bridge the gap between the old and the young through intergenerational practice research. Professor Anneke Fitzgerald describes the work of the Australian Institute for Intergenerational Practice and what makes a good intergenerational program.

Outdoor activities can have a significant effect on our health, state of mind, and overall well-being. Sarah-Kaye Page reminds us of the benefits of engaging with nature and provides simple, practical suggestions for supporting older adults to reconnect with the outdoors.

Experienced aged and disability care worker Sarah-Kaye Page provides ideas on how staff and family might use formal and more spontaneous music activities to improve the lives of older people in their care.

Dr Jacqueline Wesson, University of Sydney, describes a new leisure assessment tool under development for people living with dementia in residential aged care – LEAPing into meaningful activities.

Evidence highlights the importance of physical activity for health and wellbeing of older people, however, physical activity that is not deemed meaningful to the individual can negatively affect the mood and lower life satisfaction. This resource from ARIIA is a short easy-to-read summary of the research evidence.