Milperra is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘a gather of people’. Which is a beautiful meaning for Rise’s overnight respite cottage in Mount Helena. A place where people come together to enjoy some relaxing time away from home. Anyone who has visited will vouch for that.
It is also a place where you will find animals all around the house, animated cats, chickens (outside of course), and visiting dogs. Yes, the team at Milperra are animal lovers but they also know the benefits of pet therapy. Pet therapy has proven psychological and physiological benefits.
Did you know, research has found people who have pets or interact with pets, are generally healthier compared with non-pet owners. Pets also have fantastic effects on people with dementia. They can be soothing and can help a person with dementia communicate, speak, and articulate themselves better when they are feeling comfortable. There is evidence to suggest pet therapy can make a person with dementia re-engage with what is happening around them.
So, it’s no surprise when support worker Julie Lane had an excellent idea of getting a resident bird. Meet Bud the budgie. He’s a beautiful little boy that came to Milperra when he was just a baby so he could be hand tamed, which only took a week!
Bud brings a sense of calm; you can see the effect on the guests immediately. He lifts the mood, stimulates conversation, aids reminiscing and engages guests with his birdy conversations.
Bud was an instant hit!
If you would like further information on pets and seniors click
here.
Cottage Respite
Nestled in the Perth hills, Milperra Cottage provides professional and personalised care for guests who are ageing and/or living with dementia.
Learn more here or get in touch with Karen on 6274 3700.