The proof is in the Christmas pudding
“We all love some figgy pudding” says the song and for most of us it’s not Christmas if there isn’t pudding for dessert! So, we asked Glengara Care’s Head Chef Daniel Matsen to share his favourite plum pudding recipe, so you can adorn your Christmas table or even gift some to friends this festive season.
Plum pudding
Ingredients
300g raisins, chopped
125g sultanas
150g cranberries
200ml rum
250g butter
200g brown sugar
4 eggs
1 cup self-raising flour
170g breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon mixed spice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Method
- Soak dried fruit overnight in rum
- Beat butter and sugar until creamy, then add eggs slowly
- Add soaking fruit mix
- Slowly fold in breadcrumbs, then flour and spices
- Spray 15 x single serve size dariole moulds
- Separate mixture into moulds
- Place in steamer oven for 40 minutes*
Serve with custard.
*If you don’t have a steamer oven you can use a bain-marie in the oven, put the pudding tin in a water bath, making sure you tightly cover the tin with aluminium foil first. Cooking times will change depending on the tin size and how hot the oven is.
Meet Daniel Matsen
Daniel is Glengara Care’s Head Chef and he says that his favourite part of Christmas (besides the food) is everyone coming together, forgetting their differences and simply being wished a Mery Christmas.
Despite being relatively new to Glengara Care, Daniel is loving being part of the team. “My favourite part of working at Glengara Care is that the residents are amazing and the teamwork is great,” says Daniel.
When he’s not in Glengara Care’s kitchen or talking to residents, Daniel says you can find him in his garden, fixing his house or just taking the day out with his family. However, he’s never too far away from a kitchen, and that’s where you will often find him when he’s at home.
“I love cooking in my spare time, sometimes I think I cook too much, but I do love it. So does my wife!” says Daniel laughing.
What’s on the menu at Glengara Care this Christmas?
Daniel gave a sneak peek at what residents at Glengara Care will be dining on this Christmas lunch. Yum! How many more sleeps until Christmas?
- Roast turkey with cranberry sauce
- Honey glazed ham
- Roasted root vegetables
- Christmas plum & date pudding with brandy custard
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On top of the world at Drayton Villas
It was love at first sight for Virginia and Brian when they visited Drayton Villas Retirement Village. Looking for a tree change, the couple visited the Toowoomba retirement village from their Melbourne home. From the moment they drove through the gates and were warmly welcomed by the village team, the couple knew they had found their forever home.
“We arrived at Drayton to be met by Debbie at the front of the Homestead with open arms. We met the team, Michael, Michelle and Brett who made us feel as though we had known them for years!” says Virginia.
A place to call home
The look and feel of Drayton Villas was a major attraction for Brian and Virginia, they love that the residents take pride and take part in their community.
“When we came in here, it was so clean, and the gardens are so nice. People appreciate the gardens and look after them,” says Virginia.
The couple were used to living in a community, having moved from a lifestyle community in Melbourne, and had some idea about what they wanted from life at Drayton Villas.
“We knew what we were stepping into, as we’d been in a semi-retirement, they didn’t actually call it retirement living, it was a lifestyle village. It had the swimming pool, the tennis court, the bocce court, everything that could open and shut,” says Brian. “But the first thing that struck us when we came here was the gardens and we thought ‘this place is just so lovely’.”
It wasn’t just the outside that sold the Victorian couple, the units themselves were a draw card.
Many people believe that a lifestyle village is the same thing as a retirement village, but as Brian and Virginia discovered there are some differences, including having the Retirement Villages Act, which gives residents peace of mind and outlines some important rights. The couple were also looking longer term and thinking about what would happen as they aged and would require more care and support, which is something Dratyon Villas can offer.
A family affair
Toowoomba is a long way from Melbourne, so it wasn’t a move the Brian and Virginia made lightly. Sick of long rainy winters and after being locked down during Melbourne’s strict COVID regulations, the couple decided it was time to consider an interstate move. It was with a little encouragement from their family, that brought them to look at the sunshine state and make the move north.
“Virginia’s sister lives out at Emu Creek [north of Toowoomba] and she’s been at us to move up here for years,” says Brian.
“She kept saying: ‘the weather is fantastic, not hot in summer and when it is hot, it’s not like Melbourne’. The winter is also fine, in fact it’s brilliant,” says Virginia. “We had such a horrible two years with COVID and being locked down, as much as we liked Melbourne, that was the straw that broke the camel’s back.
“We’d just had enough of Melbourne, it was cold and rainy,” Virginia continues. “I hate the heat, so when my sister said it’s lovely up here on top the plateau, it’s breezy and doesn’t get humid like Brisbane, we came to have a look.”
Virginia’s grandchildren also live in Brisbane and being able to brave the humidity and go down the range to babysit, isn’t something that was planned but is something they now love to do.
“We go down and take the children to school and pick them up in the afternoon, by the time we come home we can’t walk for two days,” says Virginia laughing.
A real community
As with most things in life, it’s the people that make something special and that’s no different at Drayton Villas.
“The people are so friendly! We don’t take part in all the events and happy hours because we are busy with our grandchildren, but that’s OK,” says Brian. “We come to the major things and everyone makes us feel welcome.”
It’s not just the other residents that make Drayton Villas a warm and welcoming community – the village team also play an important role. They ensure that the village runs well and are key to building the community.
Word of mouth
In the past 12 or so months the couple have been in the village, they make sure they tell everyone what a great place it is to live.
“I tell everyone to come and have a look. I couldn’t recommend it more highly. It’s safe, it’s quiet and we like the people, what more could you ask for?!” asks Virginia.
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10 questions to ask your home care provider
As we age, maintaining our independence and quality of life becomes increasingly important. A Home Care Package can offer a valuable solution for older Australians who wish to remain in their own homes while receiving the necessary care and support. However, finding the right Home Care Package provider can be a daunting task.
Understanding Home Care Packages
Home Care Packages are a government-funded program designed to provide a range of support services for older Australians to help them continue living at home safely and comfortably. These packages are divided into four levels, each offering different levels of care and funding.
The process of obtaining a Home Care Package begins with an assessment by your nearest Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). Once you have been approved for a package, it’s time to find the right provider. The process of being approved and allocated a Home Care Package can take some time, depending on the priority rating assigned by the assessor. As such, it’s best to start this process as your care needs are increasing, but before they become urgent.
You can also fund home care through your own funds if you’re not eligible for government-funded Home Care Package, or if you’re a self-funded retiree who opts against the Home Care Package for financial reasons.
The steps
Step 1: Determine your needs
Before you start searching for a provider, it’s crucial to understand your specific care needs and preferences. Consider factors like the type of care required – this could include domestic assistance, mobility aids or social needs, personal care, medication assistance and any specific cultural or language support needs / preferences.
Step 2: Research potential providers
Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, it’s time to research potential home care providers. You can use research online or seek recommendations from friends, family, or healthcare professionals. The government website for My Aged Care also offers a search function to find a provider.
Step 3: Compare services and costs
Contact multiple providers to enquire about the services they offer, their fees, and any additional charges. Be sure to understand their pricing structure, as some providers charge discreet administration or ‘handling’ fees, or additional fees for specific services.
Step 4: Speak to providers
Schedule interviews with potential providers to discuss your needs and assess whether they can meet them. Be sure to ask questions regarding staffing capacity and whether their care staff are appropriately qualified.
Step 5: Discuss the care plan
Once you’ve selected a provider, work closely with them to create a personalised care plan. Ensure that the plan aligns with your assessed needs and preferences, and that you have a clear understanding of the services to be provided.
Step 6: Monitor and review
In conjunction with your provider, participate in regular review and evaluation of the care being provided to ensure it continues to meet your needs and expectations. Don’t hesitate to communicate any concerns or changes in your circumstances with your provider.
Choosing a provider
Each provider is different, so meeting them will help you understand what you can expect. You’ll also be able to see what types of care, services and activities they offer. It’s essential to gather as much information as possible to make an informed choice.
To help you in this process, here are 10 questions to ask when considering a home care provider.
1. What services do you offer?
Begin by understanding the range of services the provider offers. Home care services can vary widely, from personal care and companionship to more specialised assistance. Ensure that their services align with your specific needs.
2. What qualifications do your caregivers have?
Inquire about the qualifications and training of the caregivers. Appropriately certified and well-trained caregivers are crucial for providing quality care. Ensure that they have the expertise to meet your unique needs.
3. What is your minimum shift?
Some providers will have a minimum two or three-hour shift rule / requirement, which could affect how you distribute your care through the week.
4. Will I have the same carer each time?
Having continuity of care is important to most people so that a rapport and trust can be built between the carer and the recipient. However, this cannot always be guaranteed by providers, depending on their staffing capacity, so it’s an important question to ask to ensure the right expectations.
5. How do you create care plans?
Discuss the process of creating and updating care plans. A good provider should conduct thorough assessments to tailor care to individual needs and adapt as those needs change.
6. What is your availability and flexibility?
Consider your care scheduling needs and ask about the provider’s flexibility. Can they accommodate changes in your schedule, including weekends, holidays, or short-notice requests?
7. How does billing and payment work?
Understand the provider’s pricing structure and payment methods. Clarity regarding billing processes helps prevent misunderstandings and surprises if your HCP funds are running low. It’s also important to check if there are any exit fees, should you decide to change providers.
8. What safety measures are in place?
Safety is paramount. Enquire about the provider’s safety protocols, carer background checks, and emergency response procedures. Ensuring your safety and security is essential.
9. Do you specialise in the management of certain medical conditions?
If you or your loved one has specific medical conditions, for example Dementia, ask if the provider has experience and expertise in managing those conditions. Specialised knowledge is vital for proper care.
10. How do you manage communication with clients and families?
Effective communication is key to a successful home care experience. Ask about the provider’s communication and reporting processes, including how they keep families informed about the care provided and any changes in the client’s condition.
Choosing the right home care provider is a significant decision that impacts the health, comfort, and wellbeing of the care recipient and those around them. By asking these 10 crucial questions and carefully considering the responses, you can make an informed choice that ensures you receive the best possible care, tailored to your specific needs. Remember that open communication and transparency are essential in building a trusting and successful partnership with your home care provider.
Did you know?
RetireAustralia Home Care is available in many of our villages. It can be funded privately or through an approved government-funded Home Care Package. We can even help you navigate the Home Care Package approval process through My Aged Care, the government assistance platform.
Want to discover whether life in a retirement village is right for you? Get your free guide to retirement village living.
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Preventing falls
Did you know that people aged 65 years and over are more likely to be hospitalised from a fall compared with any other age group?
In 2021-2022, 60% of hospitalisations due to falls in Australia involved people aged 65 and over.
Identifying common risk factors
Understanding the risk factors associated with falls is essential for effective prevention. Here are some common factors that contribute to falls among older people:
- Muscle weakness and balance issues: Reduced strength and impaired balance make it challenging to maintain stability while walking or performing daily activities.
- Medication side effects: Certain medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness or unsteadiness, increasing the risk of falls.
- Environmental hazards: Cluttered walkways, poor lighting, uneven surfaces, and loose rugs pose hazards that can lead to tripping or slipping.
- Chronic health conditions: Conditions such as arthritis, Parkinson’s disease or vision problems can affect mobility and increase the risk of falls.
- Lack of physical activity: Sedentary lifestyles contribute to muscle weakness and reduced flexibility, making falls more likely.
Tips to prevent falls
Fortunately, there are things that you can do to help prevent falls from occurring, below are some practical strategies.
- Exercise regularly: Engaging in activities that improve strength, balance, and flexibility can significantly reduce the risk of falls. Consider exercises such as walking, swimming, tai chi or yoga. It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any exercise program.
- Medication management: Speak to your healthcare provider who can review your medications to identify any side effects or interactions that could increase the risk of falls.
- Regular vision check-ups: Poor vision can contribute to falls. Schedule regular eye examinations to ensure optimal vision. If needed, update your glasses or contact lens prescriptions.
- Create a safe living environment: Eliminate potential hazards in your home by removing clutter, securing loose rugs and ensuring there is good lighting throughout the house. Install handrails and grab bars in bathrooms and consider using non-slip mats in the bathtub or shower.
- Wear proper footwear: It’s important to wear well-fitting shoes with non-slip soles that provide good support. Avoid walking in socks or loose-fitting slippers, as they increase the risk of slipping.
- Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced diet that includes calcium and vitamin D-rich foods promotes bone health and reduces the risk of fractures in case of a fall. If you’re unsure, you can discuss your nutritional needs with a healthcare professional.
- Regular check-ups and screenings: Schedule routine check-ups with your doctor. Regular screenings can help identify and manage any underlying health conditions that may contribute to falls.
- Assistive devices: If needed, consider using assistive devices such as canes, walkers or grab bars to help provide stability and support.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can cause dizziness and increase the risk of falls. Ensure you drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Remember, falls can be prevented so it’s important to remain proactive. By implementing these strategies, you can reduce your risk of falling and help maintain your independence and wellbeing.
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A fresh start for Jessie in a serviced apartment
Jessie's journey
“People often move into a retirement village fit active and healthy, but then as the years move on, people age and they realise that they do need additional levels of care. One of the things that Jessie and I talked about initially was accessing RetireAustralia Home Care,” says Lucy Mulvany, Village Manager at Tea Tree Gardens. “After her late husband passed away, she began to feel that she was not as able as she had been.”
Lucy spent time with Jessie talking through, and assessing what would be, the best options for the next phase of her life.
“I was getting less able,” Jessie explains. “I’ve got Parkinson’s, so Lucy and I had long chats around the possibility of transferring to a service apartment in another village. I was lucky to have her help because I really didn’t have anyone and she made it so easy for me to do this.”
Life in a serviced apartment
A serviced apartment is perfect for someone whose care needs are increasing, yet they still want to maintain their independence and keep doing the things they love. With the RetireAustralia team taking care of housekeeping, maintenance, and providing delicious and nutritious meals every day, there is the freedom to focus on what matters most.
“I think there may be a misconception that when you move into a serviced apartment that, all of a sudden, you’re losing independence. Whereas when somebody moves into a serviced apartment, they actually regain independence and dignity because their energy can be spent on themselves, their social life, their activities,” says Lucy. “The serviced apartment is entirely theirs to decorate and to furnish, so it does become like home, but it’s really manageable for them.”
Jessie, with Lucy’s help, made the decision to move into a serviced apartment at Torrens Grove Retirement Village and she hasn’t looked back.
“It’s really lovely! I’ve got my own little kitchen, my own lounge room, my bedroom and my big bathroom. Everything’s spacious and I just think it’s great,” says Jessie. “My friends came down to check it out, make sure I was living in a good place and they were very impressed.”
More than a place to live
Life hasn’t slowed down for Jessie since she moved into the serviced apartment at Torrens Grove, there are plenty of activities and services on offer with a good team to support her.
“I’ve always been a great reader my mother used to say I’d read the labels on the jam jar if I had nothing else. You can knit, you can do tai chi, which I used to do,” says Jessie. “I found that the staff here are absolutely spot on, David our cook he’s wonderful, he remembers what everybody likes. We’re lucky to have a very good hairdresser here and she does a very good cut.”
For Lucy, being able to assist residents, like Jessie, to live full and rewarding lives is definitely one of the highlights of her role.
“Moving into retirement living or into a serviced apartment can change people’s lives, it can change families lives,” says Lucy. “I feel inordinately privileged to be in that position where I can help and guide people to living as individuals and as families.”
As for Jessie, she says: “I don’t think I could live anywhere else better and to think that I’ve got such a lovely place and I’m being looked after so well is a big plus.”
“When somebody moves into a serviced apartment, they actually regain independence and dignity because their energy can be spent on themselves, their social life, their activities,”
– Lucy Mulvany, Village Manager Tea Tree Gardens Retirement Village.
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Is a serviced apartment in a retirement village right for you?
What is a serviced apartment?
In a RetireAustralia retirement village, serviced apartments are generally studio-sized or have a separate bedroom and include a private bathroom, kitchenette, and living area (they do vary between villages). With our team taking care of housekeeping, maintenance, and providing delicious and nutritious meals every day, you’ll have the freedom to maintain your independence. Serviced apartments are perfect if your care needs are increasing, yet you want to keep doing what you love.
Benefits of a serviced apartment
Independence meets support: serviced apartments provide a harmonious blend of independence and support. Residents have their private living space while enjoying access to various amenities and assistance as needed. It’s a lifestyle where you can live the life you want with the support you need.
Freedom from chores: Say goodbye to mundane household tasks. In a serviced apartment, there will be housekeeping, maintenance, and daily meals. This leaves time to focus on the things and the people that matter most.
Social connection: Retirement villages are vibrant communities teeming with like-minded individuals. Serviced apartments promote social interaction through planned activities and shared spaces, where you can take part in as much or as little you like. Loneliness is replaced with companionship, creating a sense of belonging.
Staying well: ageing gracefully involves maintaining physical and mental health. With the daily, nutritious meals offered in a serviced apartments combined with the social interaction and opportunity for activity, good physical and mental health can be achieved.
Security and safety: each apartment has a personal emergency response system, providing residents with peace of mind knowing that assistance is close at hand.
Stay with your loved one: You can continue to live with your partner in a serviced apartment, whether they require extra support or not.
Access to Home Care: along with housekeeping and meals, you can access personal care through RetireAustralia Home Care. This could include help with showering and dressing, medication management or wound management, as well as much more. Care is flexible and tailored to exactly what you need, when you need it. It can be funded privately or through a government-funded Home Care Package.
What do serviced apartment residents say?
John at Bartonvale Lodge
John Langton says that empathy and comfort are the key things that matter to him and as a serviced apartment resident at Bartonvale Lodge Retirement Village he gets that in spades.
“It’s a nice place to be. I’ve been here five years and I’ve always been in a serviced apartment. I was living just four or five streets away from here, so it was an easy move,” says John.
“Certainly, I could recommend it here. I feel very relaxed and I feel the staff are doing an excellent job,” John explains. “We have meetings, social get-togethers, people from outside come in and enjoy visiting.
“Our Village Manager Trish is a breath of fresh air, we feel like we have someone who is working for us, she has compassion and understanding. Most of all, I feel like I’m a part of a family here.”
Jennifer at Wisteria Grove
Jennifer Smith was a resident at Tea Tree Gardens Retirement Village when she decided to utilise respite care at Wisteria Grove Retirement Village.
During her stay, Jennifer realised that she was going to need ongoing care and support and that a serviced apartment at Wisteria Grove was the right choice for her.
“The girls are all very helpful,” says Jennifer “I like having the meals prepared for me, which are good.
“I like joining in the activities when I can. I like the sing-alongs and bingo. I also like the concerts when they happen,” Jennifer explains. “I also like the hairdresser services and podiatrist visits at Wisteria Grove, as I don’t need to go somewhere else for these.”
Jennifer has a Home Care package with RetireAustralia and she has a carer who comes in regularly and takes her shopping, or for a drive. “While I can’t see, I’m still getting out,” says Jennifer, who has issues with eyesight.
“I can manage a lot on my own,” she says. “But it’s good being cared for by the girls here when I need the support.”
Betty at Tarragal Manor
Betty Whitten had lived at Tarragal Glen Retirement Village for more than 25 years, when she decided that it was time to move somewhere where she could get some extra help.
“I said if I go anywhere, I want to go to The Manor where I still feel connected to the village,” says Betty “So, I moved in here in March 2020. It was one of the best moves I’ve ever made.”
The Manor, which forms part of Tarragal Glen Retirement Village, offers serviced apartments to cater for residents who need extra household assistance, but still want to live independently.
“My family were very pleased when they knew I was coming into somewhere like this, where I was going to be looked after and a lot of the chores taken off my shoulders,” says Betty.
At the Manor, life hasn’t slowed down for Betty. While she likes to take it easier in the morning, her afternoons are spent catching up with friends and taking part in the many activities on offer, including bingo, trivia and wordsearch.
“Over at the village, they’ve looked at our diary that’s printed in the Tarragal Times and quite a few of my friends over there have said ‘You do more over there in The Manor than we do!’” says Betty.
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Brett goes the extra mile at Drayon Villas
Brett Halley never expected to find his calling when he started working at Drayton Villas, but now he can’t imagine being anywhere else.
When Brett Halley joined the team at Drayton Villas Retirement Village, he never expected to still be working there seven years later. Brett had come from the building industry and owned his own business, when things were a little bit quiet, he took the role of maintenance person at the village as a part-time job.
“Everyone said it wouldn’t last, but I’m still here,” says Brett. “I just love the place.”
The residents at Drayton Villas just love Brett too. For Brett, working in the village is more than just a job, the residents have become like family to him, and he enjoys going the extra mile to help them out.
Memorable moments
While Brett’s official title is Maintenance Person, his role often involves a lot more than making sure the village is maintained. While he can often be found doing repairs, working in the garden, or even assisting with the residents’ IT, it’s the more unusual tasks that Brett ends up with that are the most memorable.
“I dress up at Christmas and Easter as Santa and the Easter Bunny. You see the look on their faces, and they really appreciate it and just love it so much,” says Brett. “When the card ladies (a group who regularly catch up to play cards) have their parties, I have to be here, as I’m the only one allowed to cut the cake. It’s funny because I’m the worst person at cutting cake, but it’s got to be me, no one else is allowed to touch it.”
While the day is varied and Brett can be required to do a variety of tasks, he always feels appreciated and like he’s making a difference for residents.
“The residents are so appreciative of everything I do, and I feel very loved here,” says Brett. “I’ll be on the mower, and I have to watch out because the residents will come and stop me and give me a bikkie and a drink, just things like that. They’re just beautiful people, most of them are good country people.”
Going the extra mile
Brett always makes sure the village is kept ship-shape and works hard to ensure it’s a lovely place to live, but it’s all the thoughtful extras that makes him a special member of the team.
“If a resident has recently lost a partner, I make sure I spend extra time with them. There was a gentleman here, when he lost his wife, I used to go down to him every day as he had no family. Sadly, he passed away at the start of the year, which is a shame,” explains Brett. “He was in the Navy, and I was concerned, as he was a very proud man, and he had his medals in his home. The person who took over wasn’t interested in them, so I asked if it was alright if I took the medals into the RSL. I also gave the RSL a picture of him in his uniform, so they are going to mount them and display them in the club, so he’s not forgotten.”
Lasagne for the ladies
Along with the Village Manager Michael McMullen, Brett started up a men’s shed, for the men who don’t get out much to have an activity they can take part in and enjoy. The pair also organised a regular outing to the pub or BBQ in the park so the men can socialise with each other. With the residents always at the forefront of him mind, Brett didn’t want the ladies to feel like they missed out.
“I didn’t feel like it was right for the women not to do something,” Brett explains. “So, the other day I had a lasagne lunch for them and nearly every woman here put their name down for it! I had to make lasagne for 55 people, and I tell you what that was an eye opener! I think next time I’ll order pizza!”
Its own reward
The old saying ‘do something you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life’ seems to ring true for Brett. A diverse role and spending his days with loving and appreciative residents appears to be the perfect recipe for a fulfilling work life for Brett.
“As I said, I do a bit of everything! That’s why I enjoy getting up and going to work, I don’t think I’ve had many days when I haven’t wanted to come to work, so that’s a good thing about it. We have a great team here, we all feed off each other,” says Brett.
“I don’t mind going the extra yard for the residents as they really appreciate it.”
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The first weeks of life in a retirement village
Moving house is a notoriously stressful event in anyone’s life, but when you move to a retirement village there can be other emotional stressors involved. Any big move or change can bring uncertainty and anxiety, it can also bring up unexpected emotions of loss and feelings of self-doubt especially as you leave a family home filled with memories. It’s important to give yourself some slack and acknowledge that it is a big event. It may help to consider all the positives of what your new life will bring. To assist you as you consider a big move, we have spoken to some of our residents to discover what the first few days, weeks and months in a retirement village was like for them.
The first few days
The first few days you will be finding your feet and unpacking your precious belongings. When you do venture outside your front door to discover your new community, you’ll discover some friendly faces to say hello to.
Your Village Manager will also welcome you and provide you with practical information to help you settle in to your new community. This includes details of the village team, facilities and opening times, what to do in an emergency, important phone numbers and other information about life in your new community.
As you settle in, they will also let you know about the resident groups/committees and available activities that you can join if you so wish. You can then discover the village at your own pace.
“The first few days we didn’t really leave the unit, because we were busy unpacking. We’d just bump into people in the garage or the foyer, but everyone was very friendly and welcoming,” says Judy, a resident from the Verge at Burleigh Retirement Village.
The first few weeks and months
Enjoying an active life
Everyone is different and settling in make take you some time or no time at all! For some people it is about being part of a vibrant community and they’re happy to swap house and garden maintenance for spending their time doing the things they really enjoy.
This was true for Chris and Judy from the Verge, who moved from a large family home with acres of gardens.
“I found that I didn’t miss cleaning the pool. I didn’t miss doing the garden or doing the repairs,” says Chris. “Within two weeks, we felt like we had settled in. We made a point of going to every happy hour, so that we could integrate, and people could accept us to the community.”
For Judy, she says “It was a massive change, but it’s been a very happy one.”
It was a similar story for Norm and Nola at Tarragal Glen Retirement Village. When the couple first moved into the village, they loved having the gardening and maintenance team take care of everything. Instead of worrying about the mowing, they could focus on enjoying their retirement.
“We moved in and had no problems at all. It was quite easy really. There are so many activities, every day of the week! They run a recent movie every month in country club, social events and dinners. The country club has just about every activity you could want, including things such as bowls, card games, gym and much more. In fact, if you can name it, you can have it,” Norm explains.
Kitrina from Tea Tree Gardens Retirement Village says her advice for new residents is: “I recommend people find an activity, more than one if possible, and just go with it. As that is the best way to meet residents and I think the longer you wait the harder it can be to join in.”
Care and security
For some residents, the security and care a retirement village offers is why they make the move. Lorraine and Reg were pleasantly surprised when they moved into The Verge at the care and concern they received from day one.
“Moving in here was like getting a warm hug. It felt like home right from the start, and everyone has been so welcoming and friendly,” says Lorraine. “When Reg had a scare with his health, we needed people, and they were here straight away. The support and concern shown by the village team and residents has absolutely confirmed that we made the right decision by moving here.”
Tina and Norm made the decision to move to Magill Retirement Village after looking after their elderly parents. They wanted to have control over their care and feel secure about their future without being a burden.
“I’m scared of being on my own, so I have peace of mind being here. I’m so relaxed and feel safe and secure,” says Tina.
To really ensure they’re never alone and that they have the support they need to continue the life they want in the village, the couple are on a Home Care Package.
“It’s also why we’ve each got a Home Care Package, I’m on level 1 and Tina is on a level 3. To help ease our concerns of being looked after,” says Norm. “Getting the cleaning once a fortnight is the best thing we did after we moved in.”
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Pat finds her forever home at Glengara Care
After a nasty fall, Pat and her family realised that she needed some extra care and support, but they were unsure of what that would involve. Pat’s daughter, Kim, didn’t believe that residential aged care would be right for her mother, so they kept looking until they discovered Glengara Care on the NSW Central Coast.
“When it was first brought to my attention that maybe Mum should come into care, I was dead against it,” says Kim. “I didn’t feel she needed the care, but fortunately my brother said just have a look at the place. After the visit, the first thing I did was call my husband and say we cannot offer her the same type of care as she’ll get here. So, I was on board immediately after that.”
Life for 86-year-old Pat is now good as she receives the support she needs, but still retains her independence. Meanwhile her family have peace of mind that she’s being well cared for and is enjoying her life.
“I have a wonderful life. After the nasty fall, I couldn’t walk properly,” says Pat. “I was so happy when I discovered Glengara Care and I thank God every night. They [My family] know if I fall, someone’s there. They know I can just touch the button and they will come.”
What is Glengara Care and the care journey?
Glengara Care is an alternative to traditional residential aged care, featuring care apartments, located within the Glengara Retirement Village. Each apartment is secure and offers a private space with the freedom to entertain family and friends or simply relax. Residents have their individual care needs met with tailored services by a qualified team.
“It is state-of-the-art independent living,” explains Care Manager, Josh Campbell. “The difference between Glengara Care and serviced apartments is our unique model. We are a registered nurse-led model and we can provide that higher level of care that you likely wouldn’t find in the service apartment environment.”
Kim agrees that Pat gets the care she needs and the family are comforted that knowing she is being looked after, even when things don’t go to plan.
“Glengara Care is definitely first class. Mum did get unwell at some point and the care that they gave her was excellent. I had daily updates of how she was doing and just knew that her recovery was going to be so much faster than if it was if she was on her own,” says Kim. “She is very happy here and she still has her independence. It’s just such a comforting feeling for us knowing that she’s just so well looked after here.”
At Glengara Care, team members adapt to the needs of each resident as their care requirements increase or change.
Josh explains: “At Glengara Care we have a continuum of care. We can follow the client on their care journey as their care needs increase from low to high care. We can assist them and support them throughout that journey.”
Free and easy
For Pat, living somewhere that feels like home and being surrounded by people who look after her is what makes life so good. Pat doesn’t have to worry about mundane chores, she can just focus on what matters most to her.
“They’ve got nurses here and they’ve always got someone to come in to see if you’re all right,” says Pat. “And once a week they will do everything for you, clean your room, do all your washing and go shopping. They take me out on the bus and it’s free. It’s just like being at home, but you don’t do the work. I feel wonderful! Free!”
Freedom and independence is a key feature of what makes Glengara Care special. Residents are encouraged to design what their life looks like – from the décor of the apartment to how they structure their day.
“It was really good that we were able to bring Mum’s furniture in – her bed, her lounge and set it up the way that she’s comfortable with,” says Kim.
“I like my own bed, and they say but it’s low, I said ‘yes but I’m short’,” laughs Pat.
Josh agrees that residents being in control of their own choices make Glengara Care a special place to be.
“I love seeing everybody living the way that they have always lived,” says Josh. “Making their own choices, deciding what their life looks like on a day-to-day basis. It’s a huge part of what gets me up out of bed every day and what continues to fulfil me in my role and what keeps bringing me to work every day.”
No place like home
For Pat, Glengara Care is home. A place where she intends on happily spending the rest of her life.
“It’s just a wonderful, beautiful place. They watch over you. They laugh with you. They cry with you. They’re wonderful people and anyone that comes here will be very lucky to live here,” says Pat.
“I think everybody deserves to be happy but here you are. This will be my forever home. I never want to leave it – ever!”
Find a community of care that you can call home
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When is the right time to move into a retirement village?
If you’re considering moving into a retirement village you may be wondering when the right time would be to make the move. The best age or stage of retirement to move into a retirement village varies for each individual and will depend on your personal circumstances and preferences. Retirement villages typically cater to older adults who are looking for a community-focused lifestyle, plus care and support in their senior years. Many people consider moving to a retirement village when they no longer want the responsibilities of maintaining a large home or when they’re looking for a more socially active and secure environment. Others may be are starting to think about the future and what their future care needs may be or simply are looking for a more mobility-friendly living environment.
According to the Property Council Retirement 2022 census, the average age of someone that enters a retirement village in Australia is 75 years and the average age of a resident is 81 years.
Home maintenance
Maintaining a large family home can become a burden as we age. There are the constant repairs, garden care, not to mention cleaning multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. Yet the family home can hold a lifetime of memories and be in the community someone is used to, so many people can be reluctant to give that up.
There are steps to keep you living in your family home for longer, such as minor renovations to make the home more age friendly and getting help with the gardening and cleaning. However, if looking after a large home is getting just too much, it may be time to start thinking about downsizing and life in a retirement village may be the right choice for you.
Safety
There may come a time when your home doesn’t feel as safe as it once was, with uneven floors and many levels or stories, tiles and old carpet all posing a risk of having a serious slip, trip or fall. If this sounds familiar, it could be time to reconsider your living arrangements and a retirement village could be a good option.
Social life
For many older Australians, loneliness and social isolation can be a major concern. In fact, loneliness is linked to increased mental and chronic health issues. Often when someone finds themselves unexpectedly alone, whether it’s due to the death of a spouse, being away from friends or family, a reduction in mobility or a lack of transportation when they give up driving, they are at a higher risk of loneliness. From our residents’ experience these events could be the time to consider moving to a retirement village.
Retirement villages will have organised social, sporting and leisure activities that residents can take part in if they’d like to. Being in a community of people in the same stage of life also means there are opportunities for incidental socialising and having a familiar face around.
The safety and security of living in a community
Many older people have spent years in their home and community, sometimes they may realise that the community is no longer around them anymore. Once there was a time where they knew everyone in the street and could pop in for a cuppa, now they barely recognise a face to wave to.
If this is you, moving to a retirement village could give you the opportunity of living in a community of like-minded people who are in the same stage of life. Many of our residents tell us that they like remaining independent and having a private life, but also feel safe knowing that there are neighbours and a village team who look out for them.
Care needs
As we get older, there will come a time when we need some extra care and support. That doesn’t necessarily mean residential aged care or a nursing home, a retirement village can offer independent living with access to care when you need it.
In RetireAustralia retirement villages, residents have access to in-home care services from our own team or trusted local partners. Home Care support includes help with household chores, meal preparation, showering, dressing, and medication support, plus more.
Some villages also offer serviced apartments, which are perfect if your care needs are increasing, and you want to continue living an independent lifestyle. In a serviced apartment, you can come and go as you please with the benefit of having cleaning, linen laundry and meals taken care of.
A change in care needs or a realisation that you want to be somewhere where your care needs can be taken of is often a catalyst for people to consider moving to a retirement village.
Making the move
Whatever your reason, when considering retirement living, it’s advisable to research different retirement villages, consider your financial situation, and consult with family and professionals to determine when the right time is for you.