Winner: Lindl Webster
Diversional Therapist – Avondale Lifestyle Community NSW
Avondale Technology Design Challenge
Brief Description.
The annual Avondale Technology Design Challenge provides an opportunity for residents within two aged care facilities to engage with year 8 students who are set the task of designing something to improve the life of an older person. Small groups of students are matched with ‘their’ resident to find out all they can about them, the groups then go about creating something specifically for the resident; from design concept through to production in line with their school curriculum.
This program offers many benefits to residents and students including:
• Inter-generational programming, the opportunity to educate students about stereotypes and the stigma attached to aged care and ageing
• Increased student engagement, potential ongoing friendships created between students and residents
• Person centred programming which employs the strengths of narrative therapy to build improved sense of self and self-esteem
• Active community engagement
The program offers professional development opportunities for myself as a Diversional Therapist in the form of exploring innovative programming, working with dedicated teaching staff and opportunities to educate and promote Diversional Therapy practice.