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On Friday 27 October 2017 Alzheimer’s WA CEO, Rhonda Parker, officially opened the new garden at Ella’s House in Mandurah.
Alzheimer’s WA was able to turn a dream into reality, and build a dementia friendly landscaped garden at Ella’s House thanks to generous donations from local business owners John and Bella Perry from H & N Perry, and Florida Beach Dawesville.
The garden project was also supported by donations, services and support from David and Jo Waddell, Village Manager Settlements, Ingenia Communities, local community members as well as the City of Mandurah.
Ella’s House club members were joined by the Hon. David Templeman MLA, Minister for Local Government; Heritage; Culture and the Arts, City of Mandurah Mayor Rhys Williams, Deputy Mayor Caroline Knight, project donors and supporters at the opening.
Garden Therapy
There is strong research that supports the importance of having access to a therapeutic garden space. The evidence shows that access to well-designed gardens leads to improved mobility, improved mood, reduced anxiety and higher levels of wellbeing.
The philosophy of Ella’s House is about creating a household that enables, engages and supports the wellbeing of house visitors. The garden plays an important role in this philosophy.
The garden and associated activities are designed to help improve wellbeing through providing meaningful activities, reinforcing a sense of identity and bringing joy. Be it caring for the chooks, working in the shed or tending the plants there is always something important to do.
This garden has been designed with the unique needs of the people who will spend time in it, in mind. Easy wayfinding, sensory stimulation, meaningful engagement activities and social connection spaces are just some of the features incorporated in the garden.
About Ella’s House
Ella’s House, in Mandurah, is a day respite centre for people living with dementia. The house provides care, support and meaningful engagement to help improve the lived experience of dementia that respects the individuality of each of their clients.
Alzheimer’s WA thanks all who made this project a reality.
