Trentham Aged Care residents are now able to enjoy a piece of dementia-friendly artwork, commissioned using funds provided by the Trentham Easter Art & Craft Show (TEACS) Committee as well as other donations to the facility. The Committee generously donated $3,000 from funds raised through their annual exhibition.
Cynthia Goudie from the TEACS Committee met with local artist Louise Otten, Central Highlands Rural Health’s Chief Executive Officer, Maree Cuddihy and Acting Director of Nursing at Trentham Health, Jacqui Tarrant recently to view the completed dementia-friendly artwork.
Residents were asked to contribute ideas for the artwork before it began and played an active role in how it evolved as Louise worked with them to add details as she created the landscape mural. It was a collaboration of creative ideas which sparked much conversation and excitement. The residents looked on with pride as elements that they suggested were brought to life by Louise.
Maree Cuddihy, CEO, Central Highlands Rural Health said, “We are thrilled for our residents that Louise has created this incredible artwork that features wildlife and beautiful scenery. It is often acknowledged between keen gardeners, or as people age and find they have more time to sit and look into the garden that the bird and animal life becomes more of a focus in their lives. We’ve found that the mural has stimulated memories and conversations between our residents, connected to these past experiences. We think it’s charming and enriches the ambience of the space. We are very grateful to the Trentham Easter Art & Craft Show Committee for the generous donation to support the wellbeing of our residents.”
The artwork is in the dining room so residents can view the mural throughout the day. Trentham Aged Care residents have commented:
- ‘It’s great, very clever, makes me feel good’ - Rosalee
- ‘It’s very colourful, it’s been very well done and it brightens up the room’ - Margaret
- ‘She is a very good artist’ - Bob
“Our residents have experienced so much joy watching Louise create something that is a long-lasting feature for our dining room. We are so thankful for donations to Trentham Aged Care that enable us to provide a stimulating, engaging and comfortable place for all who call it home.” Jacqui Tarrant, Acting Director of Nursing at Trentham Health.
Every donation helps to improve the health and wellbeing of our community. Can you give a gift to Central Highlands Rural Health? Donation and fundraising enquiries from individuals, community groups and businesses are always welcome. Please contact Kathryn Kosloff, Fundraising Manager, on (03) 5321 6555 or via giving@chrh.org.au or www.chrh.org.au/donate
