General News
7 November, 2025
Ice cream innovation recognised
LEURA Aged Care residents are the real winners after a clever innovation from South West Healthcare (SWH) staff brought ice cream back into their lives.
Many aged care residents living in residential care have difficulty swallowing their food, known as dysphagia.
For many this meant melting ice cream (which can be aspirated) served on a stick (which can be a choking hazard) was off the menu – until now.
SWH chief executive officer Craig Fraser said staff worked together to come up with a new no-melt ice cream innovation which allows residents to enjoy an ice cream treat safely, with dignity and improved nutrition.
“The project began with a resident’s nostalgic wish for an ice cream after a barbecue lunch and quickly evolved into collaboration between nurses, a speech pathologist, dietitian, kitchen staff and leisure and lifestyle coordinators,” he said.
“Together the team trialled and perfected a safe, no melt ice cream product using Screamies, an Australian made, shelf stable ice cream suitable for freezing and consumption by those on modified fluid diets.”
The project has enhanced the dining experience for residents and has demonstrated SWH’s commitment to person-centred care, clinical excellence and innovation.
“It was beautiful – I haven’t had ice cream on a stick in years,” said one happy resident, echoing the thoughts shared by staff and residents at Leura Aged Care.
Leura Aged Care service care manager Hellen Radford said she was thrilled the project was recognised.
“Being named a finalist in the Victorian Public Healthcare Awards is a proud moment for our team,” she said.
“It highlights the power of small ideas to make a big impact in people’s lives.”
Mr Fraser said it was initiatives such as these which helped to make Leura Aged Care feel like a home, not just an aged care facility.
“The dedication of our staff in developing this solution empowers residents to live fully, knowing that their voices are heard and their needs respected,” he said.
“These ice creams are now a meal time staple at Leura Aged Care, available to all residents – those with dysphagia and those without – any time they would like one.
“It’s a great example of how aged care can be both clinically sound and deeply personal.”
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