New-look courtyard brings aged care community together

The green thumbs and budding artists of BlueCross Broughtonlea have been working hard to give their central courtyard a brand new look.

Yesterday afternoon they were able to sit back and admire their handiwork as the Mayor of Whitehorse Sharon Ellis joined BlueCross Broughtonlea staff and residents for the official opening of the new space.

Broughtonlea lifestyle coordinator Keirston Whelan and Broughtonlea art therapist Kirsten Haworth have collaborated closely with residents over the last few months to come up with a design that would encourage people to spend more time outdoors.

A central hub of the Broughtonlea facility, even those less mobile are able to enjoy the refreshing new view from their overlooking bedrooms.

Ms Haworth saw the restoration as an opportunity to get her art therapy program involved in a rewarding ongoing project.

The communal project also encouraged previously disengaged residents to get involved, socialise with others and focus on a particular goal.

Ms Whelan said the exhibition yesterday gave everyone a sense of pride, to know that together they had achieved something truly special.

Aged Care Online sat down with Ms Whelan to find out the whole story.

Image: Celebrating in the courtyard. From left, BlueCross General Manager, People and Culture, Wendy Starkey, BlueCross Broughtonlea Art Therapist Kirsten Haworth, Mayor of Whitehorse Cr Sharon Ellis, BlueCross Regional Manager Bridget Howes and BlueCross Broughtonlea Leisure & Lifestyle Coordinator.