New therapeutic garden at Bunbury Regional Hospital aiding patients with their recovery

A new therapeutic garden at the Bunbury Regional Hospital is providing patients with an engaging way to aid their rehabilitation.

The unique initiative — spearheaded by the WA Country Health Service — offers patients gardening sessions which are designed to enhance their physical, cognitive and social recovery.

Located within the hospital’s subacute restorative unit, and led by the occupational therapy team, the garden is for patients working to regain strength and independence following medical conditions, injuries or surgeries.

Bunbury Regional Hospital director Jeff Calver said the initiative was a collaborative effort.

“We noticed an opportunity in the rehabilitation program for an age demographic which typically loves gardening,” he said.

“Some patients find traditional rehabilitation settings, such as gyms, challenging. So, the chance to spend more time outdoors doing something they enjoy had great potential.”

The garden beds have been installed at various heights to accommodate patients of all mobility levels and staff run individual sessions which are tailored to patient’s personal needs.

Mr Calver said the program was already receiving positive feedback.

“Gardening is a great way to encourage movement, dexterity and engagement — all of which are critical for rehabilitation,” he said.

“Patients are also enjoying the strong sense of community and appreciate the opportunity to be part of something meaningful during their recovery.”

One participant — an 83-year-old recovering from a stroke — said they were enjoying being involved in the project.

“I’ve always been passionate about gardening, so to be able to incorporate enjoying the warmer weather into my recovery has been really satisfying,” they said.

“It’s rewarding socially as well, and it gives me something to look forward to. It’s my favourite time of the week.”