Leading Queensland aged care provider, Lutheran Services, is developing creative, research-based engagement programs to enrich the quality of life for residents with dementia.
The targeted initiatives, including art, music, theatre and storytelling, empower residents to express themselves, find purpose, and experience moments of joy, regardless of their cognitive ability.
Lutheran Services CEO, Nick Ryan said Dementia Action Week (September 15-21) was a perfect opportunity to raise awareness and celebrate the achievements of residents and staff.
“There is significant evidence supporting the value of creative health programs for older Australians living with dementia,’’ Mr Ryan said. “The innovative programs developed by our dedicated staff go beyond basic care to deliver real and lasting impacts on quality of life.’’
Lutheran Services’ Creative Engagement Lead, Natalija Pearn, brings expertise in community health and positive ageing, and postgraduate studies in her interest field of dementia to oversee a diverse program including arts, dance, music, storytelling and performance.
“Creative activities stimulate parts of the brain that remain strong as dementia progresses,’’ Ms Pearn said. “Our programs nurture social connection, offer emotional outlets, and foster a sense of accomplishment. Even as abilities decline, residents can engage meaningfully through art and creative activities.
“The power of creativity is that it doesn’t rely on memory to allow feelings to be expressed and a sense of accomplishment to be felt even when verbal communication becomes limited.’’
At Orana Aged Care, Kingaroy, Ms Pearn has led a pilot program focused on creative engagement during afternoons and evenings – critical times when residents living with dementia can be more vulnerable to stress and experience increased restlessness.
“Activities later in the day might include home-like tasks such as setting tables for dinner, or art making, singing and reminiscing. These activities are adapted by staff into one or two steps, making them achievable as dementia progresses to create a real sense of purpose,’’ she said.
“The trial is having positive results. Staff and family have noticed a reduction in stress and changed behaviours, along with improved sleep, but most importantly, a marked increase in joy, social connection, and engagement.’’
Innovations such as doll therapy with weighted, heartbeat sensory companions and virtual reality experiences are being trialled at other Lutheran Services sites to further enhance comfort, connection and communication for residents living with dementia.
Ms Pearn has also developed a range of training sessions for carers and support staff that focus on empathetic, often non-verbal communication.
“Supporting a workforce that understands and connects with every resident is central to Lutheran Services’ approach,’’ she said.
“Ongoing training empowers staff with skills to interact positively with residents and create opportunities to make everyone’s day a little happier. We consider topics for conversation, validate their feelings and learn to understand and mirror body language. This says to the resident ‘I see you, I am here with you.’
“Such positive engagement improves relationships, lifts morale and results in a happier environment for both residents and staff. Every person living with dementia is unique, and our approach supports this individuality.”
Lutheran Services’ arts-centric lifestyle programs are a cornerstone of its care for its people living with dementia.
“Whether it’s a singalong that grows into residents creating original songs, or collaborations with professional musicians and theatre artists, we champion creativity as a pathway to self-expression,” Ms Pearn said. “The program is supported from the top down.”
As Dementia Action Week places attention on the 433,300 Australians living with cognitive decline*, Ms Pearn says a diagnosis does not define the individual.
“With empathy and creative connection, every day offers new opportunities for purpose and joy,” she said.
For more information about Lutheran Services’ aged care and dementia programs, call 1800 960 433 or visit lutheranservices.org.au.
*Dementia Australia statistic for 2025.
