Help us grow a garden at Liscombe House

Gardening is a hobby that many people enjoy at whatever age, but too often older people are not given then chance to garden once they start living at an aged care home.

‘Life doesn’t just stop when you move into aged care,” Jann said when asked her what she thought about living at Liscombe House. Like many residents, she’s an avid gardener and spent much of her early retirement out in the garden.

‘My favourite things were the smell of apple blossom and the taste of juicy ripe oranges straight from my tree. I loved seeing the insects and the birds go about their busy little lives too. It takes you out of yourself.’

Since the end of year tax appeal was launched, just under $4,000 has been received. OCAV is hoping to raise $10,000.

Please donate here:

The plan is to transform the Liscombe House courtyard into an edible and flower garden where residents can go to enjoy, plant vegetables, and enjoy the produce.

Funds raised will help purchase dwarf fruit trees, lightweight trowels, forks and secateurs suitable for use by people with arthritis, as well as seeds for residents and the local kindergarten children to plant together.

The hope is to raise the full amount to be able to buy moveable veggie beds which are waist high so that residents, whatever their mobility, can easily plant and pick. Another wish is to buy a new potting shed to store the equipment.

According to Kerry Feistl, Director of Nursing, there are so many benefits to gardening – physically and mentally.

“It is about getting outside, enjoying the sun and doing something energetic and fun,” Kerry said.

Her hope is that the garden will become a focal point for residents living with dementia.

“Many of our residents find it hard to be indoors. They become more relaxed and talkative when they are outside. There is something about gardens which trigger memories allowing residents to reminisce about when they were younger and their enjoyment from helping their parents and grandparents.

Please donate here: