Making older people’s dreams come true

The Presbyterian Care Tasmania Dream it, Do it program was initiated by its Major Fundraising Committee last year when it agreed it would be extremely special to be able to grant ‘one off’ dreams for residents and clients. 

“The Dreams granted are unique, some lasting a couple of hours and others lasting for a remainder of a lifetime,” explains Amanda Smith, Executive Assistant/Marketing Manager, Presbyterian Care Tasmania.

To submit a dream, users of Presbyterian Care Tasmania services and/or family members simply contact a member of staff, who then completes the submission with the dream details and costs involved.

“The submission form is then given to the Manager of Care Services at their facility for their approval and also the approval of one Committee Member,” she says. “The Program has been and continues to be very successful. It is absolutely magical seeing the joy on our resident and clients’ faces.”

Just recently, two residents from Presbyterian Care Norwood experienced a helicopter ride with Helipad Adventures around the Launceston city area when they wanted a bit of adventure. “It was absolutely fantastic,” they say.

Four residents, also from Presbyterian Care Norwood, recently enjoyed
a day on the Tamar River Odyessy; they said it was the best trip they
have ever done.

The trip to the State Moscow Circus was very memorable for seven
Presbyterian Homes Hobart residents. Karen Lovering, (Care Services
Manager Hobart) says two resident’s in particular had always wanted to
go to the circus since childhood and were absolutely overcome with
emotion. “It was great to see their faces light up with joy and their
focused engagement with the event,” she says. “One resident who is
constantly on the move was transfixed throughout the event.”

While many dreams are one off experiences with lasting memories,
Nancy, from Presbyterian Care Tasman’s Day Respite Centre is continuing
to enjoy her Dream it Do it request. Living alone in a small unit, the
former cat owner was keen to have another pet.

The team took her to the RSPCA animal rescue, where she chose a
2-year old tabby and later took her shopping for all the necessary cat
accessories. “I cannot believe that someone would do something like this
for me,” she says. “None of my other cats have ever been this spoilt.” 

Other dreams come true include a romantic dinner for two, a Saturday
night old style dance and returning to a home town to reminisce.