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On a visit to Kalano Flexible Aged Care Service in Katherine in June, two things in particular stood out to the Support Hub team about the service’s approach to client-centred care: creating opportunities for independence and making space for outdoor connection and community.
Everyday opportunities for independence
At Kalano, everyday activities are designed to give residents choice and a sense of independence. Every now and then, the service brings in goods and sets up a small ‘shop’ in the gazebo, which residents can browse and purchase clothes and other items. Some residents can also choose to cook their own meals or wash their clothes, while others accompany staff on meal runs providing an opportunity to get out and stay connected with the wider community.
Getting out into the community is clearly valued. Alongside supporting residents to attend cultural business where possible, Kalano also makes sure residents can take part in important community events, driving them when they can and arranging for transport as needed.
The importance of being outdoors
The other thing that really caught our attention was the way residents use and enjoy the outdoor spaces at Kalano. A large, grassy central area sits at the heart of the service, surrounded by the residential rooms. Chickens and their chicks wander through the space, while brick firepits sit at each of the four sides of the square. During the cooler months, the firepits become a place to gather for warmth and comfort – and simply sit together.
Many residents also spend time outside near the entrance to the service, watching the comings and goings of staff and visitors while enjoying the beautiful NT winter sunshine and blue skies. On Fridays, the space comes alive with a cook-up.
Kalano is currently undergoing renovations, so the physical space is changing. But the team surveyed residents about their priorities in the redesign and they are making sure that what matters is retained and developed. Alongside the better cupboards and flowers in the garden requested by residents, the redesigned space will, of course, include firepits and improved places to sit, gather and spend time outdoors.
Executive manager clinical services Leanne Chapman says of the service’s approach: “At Kalano, client-centred care is about recognising that our Elders are individuals with their own choices, routines, culture and connections to community and Country. Our role is not to take over the things people can and want to do for themselves, but to support independence, dignity and choice while providing safe, culturally appropriate care. Sometimes the things that matter most are simple – sitting outside around the fire, going into community, sharing food, having family visit, or continuing everyday activities that give people purpose and connection.”
