FUNDED: Brain Buggy - A new trolley brightening hospital stays in Townsville

In a pioneering effort to improve care for older patients in hospital, the Eat Walk Engage team has introduced an innovative program on surgical wards 1 and 2. Dubbed the "Brain Buggy," this special trolley brings a variety of activities, books, and magazines directly to patients' bedsides, aiming to enrich their hospital experience and support their recovery.

 

Eat Walk Engage is an initiative dedicated to enhancing care for elderly patients and has rolled out this new feature to address key challenges faced by older individuals in hospital settings. Lindsay Parkes, Eat Walk Engage Facilitator, explained the purpose of the Brain Buggy: "The Brain Buggy is designed to help our patients, especially older persons, prevent boredom and loneliness while spending time recovering, but also to help prevent delirium."

 

The Brain Buggy is stocked with an assortment of engaging activities tailored to keep patients mentally stimulated and entertained. These include craft materials for making creations with crepe paper, origami kits, puzzles, colouring books, and a selection of books and magazines. The goal is to provide a diverse range of options that cater to different interests and abilities, thereby enhancing the overall patient experience.

 

The trolley was supported through a funding application with Brighter Lives and stocked with items donated or sourced through the Eat Walk Engage staff.

 

A vital component of the Brain Buggy's operation is the dedicated volunteers from Brighter Lives. The volunteers generously contribute their time and energy to staff the Brain Buggy, ensuring that patients have access to and support with the various activities. The presence of these volunteers not only helps in facilitating the activities on the trolley, but also adds a personal touch to the care patients receive.

 

"We are so grateful for the volunteers who give up their time to take the Brain Buggy around the wards and spend time with the patients," Lindsay added. "Everything has gone so well, and we are very much hoping to bring the Brain Buggy to more wards following this trial."

 

The positive feedback from patients and staff has been encouraging, and the team is optimistic about the future expansion of the program. If you are interested in volunteering or want to learn more about opportunities within the hospital, please contact Brighter Lives or visit their volunteer page at https://www.brighterlives.org.au/volunteer/ .