The investment will ensure people living with dementia and their carers can continue accessing GreenConnect's unique outdoor activities and support services. Researchers from La Trobe University's John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research will continue evaluating the program, helping build the evidence for nature-based approaches that improve wellbeing, social connection and quality of life for people affected by dementia.
The program is delivered through a partnership between Princes Court, Mildura, Heathcote Health and John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research within the La Trobe Rural Health School. Combining nature-based activities, peer support and social connection, the program helps people living with dementia and their carers remain active, engaged and connected to their local communities.
Since commencing, GreenConnect has delivered 57 activities, supported more than 150 participants, and recorded more than 1,100 participant engagements. Evaluation findings show 98.7 per cent of participants were extremely likely to recommend the program, while 85 per cent remained engaged through a consistent core group, demonstrating the program's ability to foster lasting connections and ongoing participation.
Originally launched in April 2024 following an extensive co-design process, GreenConnect was developed in response to gaps identified in support available to people following a dementia diagnosis, particularly in rural and regional communities. The program offers an alternative to traditional respite by enabling people living with dementia and their carers to participate in meaningful activities together in nature-based settings.
The funding extension provides certainty for participants and families while enabling activities to continue across the Mildura and Bendigo-Heathcote regions over the next 12 months.
Dr Tshepo Rasekaba from the La Trobe Rural Health School said the funding extension recognised the importance of research-informed, person-centred approaches to dementia care.
"This funding extension recognises the importance of delivering dementia support that is shaped by the experiences of people living with dementia, their carers and regional communities.
"At La Trobe Rural Health School, we are proud to contribute research that not only evaluates the impact of programs like GreenConnect but also helps build the evidence for innovative, community-based models of care. Our evaluation has shown that participants experienced improvements in quality of life, while carers reported consistently low levels of burden throughout the program."
The evaluation found many participants experienced improvements in quality of life despite the progressive nature of dementia, while caregiver burden remained consistently low throughout the program. The findings are helping strengthen the evidence base for nature-based, community-led approaches to dementia support and have the potential to inform future models of care.
GreenConnect Project Manager Catherine Hyett said the extension would allow participants to continue accessing a program that fosters connection, confidence and community participation.
"Over the past three years, we have seen people form genuine friendships, build confidence and develop supportive networks with others who understand the experience of living with dementia.
"For many participants, GreenConnect provides opportunities to remain active, connected and involved in their community at a time when people can often become socially isolated following a diagnosis."
The funding extension will provide certainty for participants and families while enabling activities to continue across the Mildura and Bendigo-Heathcote regions. It will also allow the GreenConnect consortium to plan for the program's long-term future beyond June 2027 and support more people living with dementia and their carers across regional Victoria.
Learn more about La Trobe University's John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research.
Read more about GreenConnect Dementia Support Services — Bendigo & Mildura
