In residential aged care, supporting mental health is not just about managing conditions like depression or anxiety; it extends to fostering a sense of purpose, belonging, and joy in everyday life.
At Leigh Place, we are committed to creating an environment where residents can thrive mentally, emotionally, and socially.
We utilise a range of strategies to maintain mental health and well-being, including (but not limited to):
Creating Meaningful Connections – Loneliness and social isolation can have a significant impact on older people’s mental health. At Leigh Place, we prioritise connection through:
- Regular group activities such as art, music, gardening, and exercise sessions.
- Intergenerational programs with local schools.
- One-on-one time with care staff, volunteers, and pastoral care workers.
Every conversation and shared experience helps foster belonging and emotional security.
Person-Centred Care Planning – At Leigh Place, we believe that mental well-being starts with understanding the individual. Through personalised care planning, we:
- Respect each resident’s history, preferences, and emotional needs.
- Include residents and their families in decision-making.
- Identify early signs of distress and respond with empathy and support.
Promoting Purpose and Routine – For many residents, having a daily routine and a sense of purpose helps maintain cognitive health and emotional balance. We therefore support residents to:
- Participate in household tasks or communal roles they enjoy.
- Engage in goal setting, whether it’s learning a new hobby or reconnecting with an old passion.
- Celebrate milestones and achievements, big or small.
Supporting Staff to Support Residents – Our team plays a vital role in promoting residents’ well-being. At Leigh Place we invest in:
- Ongoing training and development for all staff.
- Regular staff debriefings and peer support to manage emotional workload.
- A culture of kindness, patience, and respect in every interaction.
Access to Specialist Support – For residents with complex mental health needs, we ensure timely access to:
- Geriatricians, psychologists, and psychiatrists.
- Counselling and grief support services.
- Medication reviews and non-pharmacological therapies.
At Leigh Place, we understand that early intervention and consistent follow-up can make a significant difference in quality of life.
Looking Ahead
As the new Aged Care Act and Strengthened Quality Standards come into effect from 1 July 2025, mental health and emotional well-being are front and centre in the way aged care is delivered in Australia. At Leigh Place we welcome this renewed focus and remain dedicated to continuous improvement.
Together with our residents, families, staff, and community, we continue to build a home where everyone feels valued, supported, and emotionally well.
If you have a loved one in our care or would like to know more about our well-being programs, please get in touch. We are here to help.