Backyards
What is a Bupa Backyard?
A Bupa Backyard is about making the most of the “great outdoors” in a way that is familiar and reminiscent of the Australian lifestyle.
Each Bupa Backyard uniquely reflects the residents and community of that care home and includes “places to go and things to do”.
These outdoor environments were designed to benefit all residents but are particularly valuable for people living with dementia. In 2012 Bupa was recognised for its backyards with a Better Practice Award from the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency.
Based on the principles of Person Centred Care the destinations within the backyard were chosen to enable people living with dementia to engage in meaningful moments and be supported to use their long-held abilities and memories. Whether it be weeding the veggies or hanging out the clothes, advising how to clean the aviary or feeding the chooks, these opportunities mean the person with dementia has purposeful things they can do and achieve. This is essential in supporting each person, their sense of self and meeting their social and emotional needs.
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In 2010 we evaluated the impact of the backyard destination by conducting case studies in six of our care homes who piloted this initiative. The pre and post evaluation findings showed
- A 30% reduction in resident anxiety and agitation
- A 21% improvement in levels of depression
We also conducted observation of residents using the backyards over a week-long period and found a majority of people responded with pleasure and happiness. These results validated the backyard initiative and now more than 30 of our care homes boast a Bupa Backyard.
Most importantly, the Award-winning Bupa Backyards have become a focal point in our care homes, used for outdoor concerts, family BBQs, a stroll in the garden, pottering around and just some quiet time in the sun.
Come and visit a Bupa Backyard today!
Raised Garden Beds- and potting bench veggies and/or flowers
Clothes line and laundry
Aviary / Chook Pen
Rabbit Hutch
Men’s shed with tools and things to fix and build
Sports area with putting green
Letter boxes where mail can be received and letters exchanged
Testimonials
‘With its therapeutic design your garden creates an environment which is enjoyable to Resident, family and friends year round’.
‘My mother is able to walk around and feel like she is not trapped inside’
‘My dad ventures outside a bit more now, he never used to go at all’
‘Mum loves the garden; she always gets excited when a new flower appears’
‘The calming effect of the garden can help a wide range of health concerns’
‘Your unique gardens have been a factor in referring clients to your facility, it has inspired us at Dom Care to try and develop our own’
‘Your garden is a stand out feature which has added value to the service provided and therefore enhanced the quality of care’