Hospitalisation poses significant challenges for patients with dementia in subacute Geriatric Evaluation and Management (GEM) wards.1 While volunteers provide essential non-clinical support, research on utilising the Montessori method within hospital contexts remains limited.2 To address this, a multidisciplinary team comprising Monash Health experts, including cognition clinical leads, volunteer managers and a geriatrician, and Monash University researchers developed a tailored Montessori training program. The Montessori method offer a strengths-based approach that aligns with growing calls to celebrate ageing, increase positive outcomes and enable flourishing The project refined training to align with the subacute hospital environment and volunteer scope. Volunteer training consisted of a three-hour curriculum covering physical and cognitive abilities, sensory stimulation, meaningful roles, task breakdown, and the use of memory cues. Simultaneously, staff training focused on supporting volunteers through 45-minute in-person sessions, online modules, and "Six Minute Intensive Training" delivered during handovers. Implemented over three months in 2025, the program included clinical mentorship to troubleshoot challenges on the ward. Fifty-one staff across two GEM wards and 17 volunteers completed the training. Mixed methods evaluation with qualitative interviews, focus group data and observations, indicated that program and training improved volunteer confidence in engaging with patients living with dementia. Staff observed that the program fostered a more purposeful environment, enhancing patient wellbeing through structured, meaningful activity. This innovation demonstrates the viability of adapting specialised dementia care models into subacute hospital settings through collaborative, relational practice. 1. Chróinín et al. MJA. 2024;221(8):422–5. 10.5694/mja2.52462 2. Malone, et al Dementia. 2007;6(1):150–7. 10.1177/1471301207079099