RSL Care Rowes Bay Diversional Therapy Increasing Social Participation

The residents of the RSL Care Rowes Bay are always kept busy and entertained by their wonderful Diversional Therapist, Chezz Thompson who takes an innovative and creative approach to her work. 

Diversional Therapy in aged care aims to support residents to be socially, mentally and physically engaged through a variety of stimulating activities. This is incredibly important for resident overall health and wellbeing, enhancing their happiness and quality of life.  

Chezz organises many activities at her site which are inclusive of all tastes and abilities. She has an amazing talent to create an inclusive activity calendar and is able to gently coax and encourage residents to join in activities.

“You find in aged care there are some residents who do not want to participate in any activity or event. They are most happy to sit quietly in their rooms, I have methods of gently coaxing people out of their rooms to participate, it always pays off” she said.

Chezz’s many therapies encourage residents to use their creativity, fine motor skills, trigger memory while actively participate in conversation and engage with other residents.

She promotes participation in art therapy using painting, pottery and craft, allowing residents to express themselves freely. Chezz is not afraid of creating a mess – she often encourages it through activities such as, making jam, banana sundaes and fondue tastings.

Chezz regularly uses food as the basis for her activities due to the positive sensory reactions she can see from her residents.

“Food is a powerful memory trigger; it is amazing how when the residents are doing something as simple as making jam they will start telling us about their childhood,” she said.

“They particularly love the messy factor as well; when we have the chocolate fondue fountains and banana sundaes they have a blast with the chocolate sauce and always wind up in fits of giggles over their creations.”

There are also regular picnics, high tea and special three-course dinners made available to residents throughout the year as well.

“These are designed to increase social participation and get people out of their rooms. I don’t know what it is but if you tell them there is food on, they will come,” she said.

One of the most popular events Chezz hosts is the Multicultural Days where once a month she will spotlight a country and hold a themed lunch including traditional food, music, song and dance. 

Click here to find out more about RSL Care's aged care services.