Green Connect - Highly Commended - 2024 Future of Ageing Awards.
The GreenConnect Dementia Respite Project received highly commended recognition in the Health and Wellbeing category at the 2024 Future of Ageing Awards. Results were unveiled at a presentation dinner in Sydney on August 29, 2024…To view all of the winners and read their stories…
Launched in April 2024, the GreenConnect Dementia Respite Project is a pioneering, three-year pilot initiative transforming dementia respite care in Victoria’s Loddon-Mallee region. Funded by a $1.7 million grant from the Australian Government, the project introduces an innovative, nature-based approach to supporting people in the early to mid stages of dementia and their carers.
GreenConnect offers tailored, therapeutic activities in dementia-inclusive outdoor environments, including guided walks, gardening, art workshops using natural materials, and overnight retreats. By stepping beyond traditional aged care settings, the project aims to reduce caregiver stress, enhance participant well-being, and foster social connection and community engagement.
Why it came about
GreenConnect was initiated by Heathcote Dementia Alliance (HDA) and Heathcote Health (HH), who identified a critical gap in accessible and meaningful respite care options, especially in rural and regional communities. The idea was sparked by an article highlighting the therapeutic benefits of green spaces for people with dementia. Inspired by this, HDA and HH partnered with La Trobe University’s Rural School of Health to explore global best practices in “Green Care.”
A student-led review identified successful models in countries like the Netherlands and Sweden, where nature-based therapies have shown positive outcomes, including improved mood, increased physical activity, and stronger social ties. These findings, combined with local consultations involving caregivers, healthcare professionals, and people with dementia, informed the creation of GreenConnect – a holistic alternative to conventional respite care.
How it works
GreenConnect delivers day programs and short-term respite in natural environments across three sites: Heathcote Health, Princes Court Aged Care in Mildura, and Rural Care Australia. The project provides personalised activities tailored to participants’ abilities and preferences, with strong input from carers and community members.
Key features of the program include:
Nature walks and farm visits for exercise and sensory stimulation
Gardening and horticultural therapy for meaningful, hands-on interaction with nature
Art and creativity sessions using natural materials to encourage cognitive and emotional expression
Outdoor social gatherings and cultural outings, fostering community and inclusion
These activities are co-designed through workshops and consultations with people with dementia, carers, cultural and LGBTIQA+ groups, and health professionals to ensure inclusivity, accessibility, and cultural relevance.
Stakeholder involvement
GreenConnect is led by a consortium of committed organisations:
Heathcote Dementia Alliance – Project coordination and leadership
Princes Court, Rural Care Australia, and Heathcote Health – Site coordination and program delivery
La Trobe University’s John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research – Evaluation and research Additional guidance comes from a Steering Group representing:
Dementia Australia
Carers Victoria
First Nations and multicultural health organisations
LGBTQIA+ community health groups
Academic institutions and advocacy bodies
Outcomes and impact
In its early months, GreenConnect has demonstrated measurable benefits:
Improved participant mood and reduced agitation
Lower stress levels for carers, as reported in surveys and testimonials
Increased community engagement through culturally relevant activities and co-design
“Kevin was relaxed and really happy on the day and could wander around without supervision. He’s excited for the next trip too. I’m sleeping better at night now.”
Carer from Bendigo
Outreach to First Nations groups and culturally diverse communities has been especially successful, with tailored outings like a visit to the Great Stupa in Bendigo receiving glowing reviews.
Evaluation and sustainability
Evaluation is conducted by La Trobe University using the RE-AIM framework (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance). The project’s early findings are being shared at four national and international conferences, with a peer-reviewed journal article in development.
The project’s economic and social value is also being assessed to explore its scalability and potential replication in other care sectors, such as disability, mental health, and palliative care.
GreenConnect represents a breakthrough in dementia respite care – a model of compassion, innovation, and community engagement. By replacing institutional respite with enriching, nature-based experiences, GreenConnect empowers people living with dementia and their carers to have more connected, joyful lives.
