The benefits of bus outings for residential aged care residents 

There was plenty of excitement as residents gathered outside the home, ready for a spring day trip to Bowral. As the bus wound through the Southern Highlands, conversations flowed, memories were shared, and cameras were soon capturing colourful gardens in full bloom. 

Regular bus outings are a valued part of life across Anglicare’s residential age care homes. Whether residents are exploring a destination linked to a special interest, enjoying lunch at a café, or taking a scenic drive, these outings help them stay connected to their communities and continue to participate in activities that are meaningful to them. 

Ticking it off their bucket list  

When planning trips, the lifestyle team in each home turn to residents for ideas and inspiration. A fond memory or missed opportunity can spark plans for the perfect excursion. 

For John at Porter Lodge in Minto, a bus outing provided the chance to revisit the Bowral Tulip Festival, which he had told staff he remembered fondly from a trip 40 years earlier. John, along with eight other residents and three staff members, strolled through the gardens overflowing with flowers, received a special welcome from local parrots and parakeets that playfully perched on shoulders and heads, and enjoyed a picnic lunch prepared by the home’s catering team. 

Vicky, Lifestyle Coordinator at Porter Lodge, explained how the day was made even more memorable, ‘One special aspect of this outing was that we were joined by our Pastoral Carer, Ans. We felt that the beauty and renewal of spring provided a lovely opportunity to include a spiritual element in the day.  

‘During the bus journey, residents enjoyed a time of devotion, hymn singing and fellowship, creating a peaceful and uplifting atmosphere. This added a meaningful dimension to the outing and was greatly appreciated by those who attended.’ 

Another resident’s long-held aspiration to see the Grand Pacific Drive and Sea Cliff Bridge near Wollongong inspired the Brian King Gardens team to meticulously plan an all-day excursion for 10 enthusiastic adventurers. Having trained as a civil engineer and been in the area when the road was under construction, Hugh had always intended to return to view the completed works. He thought he had missed his chance until the lifestyle team organised the Wollongong trip, which included a walk along the stunning Sea Cliff Bridge.  

For Hugh, the outing was much more than a scenic drive. It was an opportunity to reconnect with an important part of his life, revisit treasured memories, and experience a destination he thought he would not see again. ‘I thought I would never get to go there after losing my licence. I’m happy that I finally got to see it. It was a wonderful trip.’ 

Reminiscing and enjoying simple pleasures 

Simple pleasures are what some residents enjoy most when choosing which bus outing to book. That’s certainly the case at Barry Marsh House, where residents eagerly anticipate the monthly outing to Oran Park Podium shopping centre.  

Belinda, Lifestyle Coordinator, explains the appeal of a trip to the shops, ‘These trips are popular because they provide residents with the freedom to choose where they shop and what they buy. They have the security of knowing we are on hand to provide support, and they have our mobile numbers, just as we have theirs, so help is never far away. 

‘When we arrive at the shopping centre, we usually take residents to a café to enjoy a tea or coffee and a good chat. Then the shopping begins. Some residents also use these trips to meet up with family, which is something they would have done when living in their own home. Sometimes it’s these simple, everyday pleasures that can change a resident’s outlook for days to come.’ 

More than just a day out 

While a bus outing can provide a sense of independence, opportunities for physical activity in the fresh air, and connection with nature, culture or community, the benefits often extend far beyond the outing itself. 

Residents will later share stories of their adventures with others over a meals, chat with carers about memorable moments, and sometimes form new friendships with people from different parts of the home who had been on the same trip. These experiences continue to enrich life long after the bus returns. 

Wherever the destination, one thing remains consistent — the warmth residents receive from the wider community. From friendly conversations in cafés to smiles from passers-by and the occasional ‘What are you all up to?’ from a curious stranger, these interactions remind residents that they remain an important and valued part of community life. 

For many, the journey is about much more than the destination. It’s about connection, belonging, and creating new memories together.