Care, Connection & Support at the Heart of SGH’s Day Respite Service

Since opening its doors in 2020, South Gippsland Hospital’s Day Respite Service has become a vital hub of connection, care and support for older residents and their families. Offering social engagement, meaningful activities and compassionate nursing care, the service has grown into a place where people feel not only cared for, but genuinely valued.

The Day Respite Service operates during the day only, providing a safe, welcoming and homely environment where participants can relax and feel at ease before returning to the comfort of their own home each afternoon. The service includes access to a fully furnished private bedroom with its own bathroom, along with multiple shared spaces designed for comfort, conversation and connection. These communal areas are where participants enjoy group activities, creative sessions and shared meals that bring people together. Each day is thoughtfully planned to the interests and abilities of the people attending, while ensuring all nursing care needs are met, so everyone feels included, supported and valued.

For many participants, attending the program has become a highlight of their week. One participant shared just how much the service has changed their daily life:
“I wake up on the morning I attend ready to go. Living alone, I just have four walls at home with family at a distance. I enjoy the time I spend at respite — it’s great. The friendships I have made, I can’t describe. They are so special and mean so much to me.”

The value of the service extends well beyond the participants who attend each week, reaching deeply into the lives of their families and carers. Many describe the program as a source of relief, reassurance and renewed balance at home. One local family shared that the service has been transformative for both husband and wife:
“Having access to this service has made a significant positive difference for both of us. It not only provides valuable support and social interaction for my husband, but also gives me the opportunity to recharge while knowing he is being looked after by trained nurses who are available to provide medical assistance if required. The Day Respite Service also allows him to remain living at home for longer, rather than needing to move into full‑time care.”

Prospective clients and their families are warmly invited to arrange a meet‑and‑greet at the service, where they can tour the facilities, chat with staff and get a genuine feel for the welcoming environment that participants enjoy each week.

With demand for social support and carer relief continuing to grow across regional Victoria, the South Gippsland Hospital Day Respite Service is encouraging families to reach out, visit the centre and see firsthand what a difference the program can make in their lives. For more information or to arrange a visit, community members are invited to contact the South Gippsland Hospital Day Respite Service on 03 5683 9776.