Seniors’ Latest Hobby is a Real Drama

The latest lifestyle initiative to assist residents with dementia at Mercy Health's Mercyville Hostel aged care home in Craigie, involves voice warm-ups, lots of laughter and the creation of a radio show.

The Mind the Change workshops are being created for seniors living with dementia as well as their caregivers to provide an outlet for fun and laughter, with residents working together to create an amusing story which is then recorded as a sound track for their very own radio show

The socially-based self-development workshops are designed for people living with memory loss and are the brainchild of Perth artist Althea Gordon, who launch Mind the Change following her mother‘s diagnoses with Younger Onset Dementia.

Mercy Health’s Mercyville Service Manager, Helen Fullarton, says residents have loved the workshops which have provided a forum for lots of laughter.

“It’s been wonderful to see our residents laughing continuously and having such a good time,” Ms Fullarton says.

“Laughter certainly isn’t a cure for dementia or Alzheimer’s, but it has much to offer both seniors and their caregivers in that it calms and reassures residents and injects a good dose of light-hearted joy into their lives.

“Mercy Health is focused on ensuring our residents continue to have joy, excitement and happiness in their lives and we are very impressed with this program as it also improves social interactions, promotes good mental health and eases tensions.

Click here to find out more about Mercy Health's residential aged care homes and home care services.