Photographs May Improve Aged Care Residents’ Wellbeing

Moving to aged care from home can be a challenge for many people because it means leaving behind some treasured belongings. But an innovative research partnership is showing that photographs can help residents’ wellbeing after they move.

Tricia King, a final year Social Change and Design PhD candidate with Queensland University of Technology and professional photographer has been working closely with Churches of Christ Care Moonah Park Aged Care residents to gain a better understanding of the role of photography and other artefacts in the lives of older people who have transitioned into aged care.

“We are all about the wellbeing of our residents and their families and so when Tricia proposed this cutting-edge beneficial research we were very happy to work with her on the project,” Bryan Mason, Director Seniors and Supported Living said.

As part of the project Tricia has captured a photo documentary series which looks at both the lived experience of aged care as well as the relationship with photographic keepsakes and this will form an exhibition on February 13 at Moonah Park.

The exhibition presents an opportunity for residents, their families and members of the media and public to see the final images from Tricia’s work with Moonah Park residents.

Tricia met with participating residents to talk about their photos and tell their stories and reflect on the meanings that have evolved through their lives.

“Imagery is a reflection of our identity.  Surrounding oneself with images makes us think about the important experiences of our lives and who we are,” Tricia said.

“My research explores the fluidity of identity as people make the transition out of home, it looks at what makes a space a home, and how artefacts, such as photographs, contribute to keeping – or perhaps even reforming – a sense of the self.

“This understanding could shape design and protocols within aged care facilities in future and help influence a better understanding of us as we age.”

Further research may involve examining the use of photography with dementia patients.

Find out more about Churches of Christ Care.