Balwyn Evergreen strengthens community connection for people living with cognitive decline or mild dementia
- marketing607610
- Oct 23, 2025
- 3 min read
MEDIA RELEASE
For immediate release
Date: October 2025
Balwyn Evergreen Centre, a community centre dedicated to ensuring that older individuals stay active, healthy and socially connected, has introduced a refreshed Supported Lifestyle Program designed for people living at home with cognitive decline or mild to moderate dementia.
Running Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am-3pm, the program provides a safe and welcoming space where participants can connect with others, maintain their independence and find joy in shared experiences.
For many, it provides a rhythm to the week - a reason to get out, move, laugh and feel part of the community again.
“Providing trusted day respite that enriches lives through social connection, gentle exercise, and meaningful cognitive engagement,” said Activities Coordinator and program lead Raymond Kolesnikoff.
“It's a professional, compassionate program that supports wellbeing - offering carers peace of mind while loved ones enjoy purposeful, engaging days.”
Participants start their day with gentle exercise, before moving into a series of tailored activities, from music and memory games to movement and sensory experiences. They also get to enjoy morning and afternoon tea, plus a nutritious meal prepared onsite.
A minibus service is available for those who need transport, making it easier for people to stay connected without the stress of travel.
Wednesday’s focus on memory and music - singalongs, bingo and storytelling spark conversation and shared laughter, while Fridays introduce more physical games such as bowling and fishing, designed to activate both the mind and body while encouraging social interaction.
Every activity has a purpose: to maintain cognitive function, support emotional wellbeing and keep participants socially engaged in a fun and familiar environment.
With a maximum of 20 participants per session, the program provides an intimate and personalised experience.
A dementia-trained team, supported by volunteers, ensures each participant receives support and attention - whether that’s one-on-one support or simply someone to share a conversation with over lunch.
For families, the program also provides invaluable respite for carers, knowing their loved ones are enjoying a safe and engaging day that enriches their wellbeing.
Tina Hogarth-Clarke, CEO, Balwyn Evergreen Centre, said the Supported Lifestyle Program reflects the centre’s commitment to helping people age well through community connection.
“We want people to feel part of something bigger - to stay active, maintain friendships and find joy in everyday life,” Tina said.
“Our community centre is a vibrant and welcoming place where people are known by name and encouraged to live fully.”
Regular participant Debbie (not her real name), 91, said attending the program has become a highlight of her week.
“I look forward to coming every Wednesday and Friday in the Balwyn Evergreen Centre bus which makes it easy to get there. The staff are wonderful, the food is lovely, I enjoy participating the quizzes and I always leave smiling.” she said.
John, 82, is also a participant on Friday.
“My husband John has Parkinson’s, and we were very happy to have John join the Supportive Lifestyle Program. As John’s carer, I was initially I think, more nervous than John when he was picked up in the Balwyn Evergreen Centre bus for transport to the centre!” Patricia said.
“However, after the first couple of times, John was really happy and really looking forward to his day at Balwyn Evergreen Centre. As his wife and carer, I am very grateful to the wonderful staff who do the utmost to provide a good program with good humour and a big heart.”
To find out if the Supported Lifestyle Program is right for your loved one, please get in touch.
