At Anglicare Southern Queensland, we’re proud to have passionate staff who truly make a difference every day. Meet one of our incredible Diversional Therapists, Lorna, who has been helping residents live fuller, more meaningful lives since 2017.
Lorna’s journey to Aged Care
“I’ve always wanted to work in aged care,” she shares. “I actually started out in nursing, but after a car accident, I was encouraged to explore a different path.”
After speaking with a career counsellor, she considered studying Health Science (Leisure and Health), but the course was online and interstate. Instead, she took a different path and pursued counselling. It was during her placement at a community centre that everything clicked into place.
“I was working with an aged care respite program, and it reminded me why I wanted to be in this field. One of the clients was so scared about moving into aged care, and I was devastated. But later, I saw her again — and she was thriving. She loved the activities and felt right at home.”
That moment solidified her passion: to help people feel safe, welcomed, and engaged when they transition into aged care.
Creating programs that spark joy and connection
From bingo to visits from therapy animals (even horses!), no two days look the same. Residents are actively involved in shaping the monthly activity calendar — offering feedback and making suggestions.
“Craft isn’t my strong suit,” she laughs, “but that’s where my team shines.”
Activities are tailored to be meaningful and inclusive. Occupational tasks give residents purpose, while cooking sessions allow them to share their skills. Animal therapy lifts spirits. Creative outlets like paint-and-sip sessions reveal hidden talents — one resident always insists, “I’m not an artist,” yet creates beautiful art each time. And of course, there’s bingo — fun, a bit competitive, and surprisingly therapeutic!
“Bingo helps with number recognition, encourages movement, and brings out so much joy. Honestly, there’s not much we wouldn’t do for a piece of chocolate!”
Ensuring meaningful engagement
Measuring the success of each activity comes down to simple but powerful indicators: smiles, laughter, engagement, and conversation.
“We’re always observing — are they participating? Interacting? Enjoying themselves? And we always ask for feedback.”
Inclusion is also key. For residents with dementia or mobility challenges, adaptations are made. Whether it’s 1-on-1 support or thoughtful seating arrangements, the goal is always the same: ensure everyone can participate meaningfully.
Working together for holistic care
Collaboration is at the heart of her approach. Constant communication between lifestyle staff, clinical teams, and families ensures that each resident’s interests, needs, and history are woven into their care.
“We are in in constant contact between staff, residents and family. We communicate with the staff to ensure residents are provided with the opportunity to attend activities when unable to bring themselves along.”
“When we need the medical history from a client, if we are unable to get this from the resident, we will speak to the family. We do behaviour management with the clinical team for a holistic environment.”
Lifelong learning and new ideas
Staying current is important. Lorna attends annual ARTA (Australian Recreational Therapy Association) conferences, engages with dementia forums, and makes the most of training and education opportunities across the sector.
One particularly powerful initiative? “We recently worked with residents to write a book filled with stories from their lives. We even held a book launch with our Kirami Community. It was beautiful and really brought everyone together.”
Moments that matter
Of all the memories, one stands out vividly for Lorna:
“It was Christmas. A resident who had been with us only a short time was entering palliative care. She was sad she couldn’t come out to hear the carols. So I brought the music to her and we sang together in her room.”
“She looked at me and said, ‘This has been the best Christmas ever.’ I still get teary thinking about it.”
To all of our Diversional Therapists — thank you for your compassion, creativity, and the quality care you provide to our clients and residents.
Interested in joining the team as a Diversional Therapist? Take a look at our current vacancies here.