Learning from a nature-based dementia respite initiative in rural Australia: A RE-AIM guided evaluation of the GreenConnect Dementia Respite Project
Shahinoor Akter

Date and Time

Thursday, November 12, 2026, 12:15 PM - 12:30 PM

Theme / Track

Service delivery, workforce and reform

Presentation Format

Concurrent

Background: Grounded in green care principles and informed by co-design, the GreenConnect Dementia Respite Project commenced in April 2024. The project addresses growing demand for dementia-friendly respite services in rural Australia and will continue until June 2026. It comprises structured, nature-based respite activities (2.5-hour monthly outings and up to one-week overnight stays) aimed at enhancing quality of life (QoL) and respite experiences of people affected by dementia. This paper presents the evaluation findings to assess the Project’s impact among participants. Methods: A pre and post RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance) guided evaluation was performed. Data included QoL (DEMQoL) and caregiver burden (Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI)) collected at baseline and 3 and 12 months. Satisfaction survey data were collected after each activity. Seventeen semi-structured interviews with participants and staff explored experiences of the Project and perspectives on nature-based respite model. Facebook and LinkedIn data were analysed to assess Reach. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, and qualitative data thematically. Results: Our analyses showed strong stakeholder engagement (Reach) and high satisfaction (Effectiveness). While DEMQoL and ZBI did not show significant improvements, qualitative findings highlighted perceived physical, emotional, and social wellbeing benefits (Effectiveness). Adoption was supported by high end-user acceptance and organisational readiness, with Implementation shaped by key enablers and barriers. Sustainability was viewed as feasible, contingent on long-term funding and organisational readiness (Maintenance). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that nature-based dementia respite care is highly valued by participants and has potential to complement conventional respite services to address gaps in dementia care.

Keywords

Dementia, Implementation, Models of Care, Non-Pharmacological Interventions, Wellness / Well Being

Authors

Associate Professor Sean MacDermott, La Trobe University, Albury-Wodonga, VIC 3690, Australia
Professor Irene Blackberry, La Trobe University, Albury-Wodonga, VIC 3690, Australia
GreenConnect Dementia Respite Project implementation team, Princes Court Limited, Mildura, VIC 3500, Australia & Heathcote Health, 39 Hospital St, Heathcote, 3523
Dr Tshepo M Rasekaba, La Trobe University, Albury-Wodonga, VIC 3690, Australia.