The Wellcare Program is a joint initiative between Western Health and Mercy Health and is run at the Sunshine Hospital every Tuesday and Thursday. It provides a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment for people with a life limiting illness in the western region.
The aims of the Wellcare Program are to promote well-being, independence and enjoyment for clients while providing a 'day off' for carers.
The Wellcare Program is staffed by a multi disciplinary team including nurses, music therapists, counsellors and volunteers. Medical support is also available.
The program offers a host of activities including:
Nursing assessment and clinical care including, pain assessment and wound care
- Creative activities
- Relaxation therapy
- Massage therapy
- Music therapy
- Cooking
- Counselling
- Gentle exercise
- Outings
A key component of the Wellcare Program are the 'Wellcare Wishes' which was developed in 2007 to give those adults in the Western region who are nearing end-of-life something to look forward to.
Those in the community with a life limiting illness often find it difficult to get to special events. Our clients are able to express a wish and these experiences are tailored to suit the client and their family, assisting in creating special memories.
Wellcare Wishes is a patient centered program and is the first of its kind to be implemented at Western Health and in the Western region of Melbourne.
Every client has thoroughly enjoyed their wish. Each experience has enabled them to spend quality time with their loved ones and create wonderful lasting memories.
It is also improving access for palliative patients to community events and activities.
Some past wishes have included going to concerts and meeting idols such as Michael Buble and Athol Guy, family weekends away and a trip down the Great Ocean Road in a convertible.
For more information about the Wellcare Program, please contact Jenni Zerafa on 8345 1226.
