Residential Aged Care

Some retirement villages offer on-site residential aged care or are located in close proximity offering residents a continuum of care in a familiar environment.

As the Commonwealth Government subsidises much of the cost associated with the provision of residential care, regional Aged Care Assessment Services (ACAS) determine eligibility for admission. An ACAS assessment can be arranged through your own doctor, community health centre or hospital.

Low Care

For those who enjoy leading their own life, but require access to care and assistance when needed, low care accommodation provides a balance of independence and support.

Residential low care, sometimes referred to as hostel accommodation, is for elderly people requiring some assistance with the demands of daily living, but who do not have complex ongoing care needs. Accommodation in a low care residential facility typically requires the payment of a residential bond and a weekly service fee. The bond is refunded, less a small percentage, at the time of discharge. The bond amount and service fee is subject to income and asset testing. The amount varies amongst providers and is subject to determination by Commonwealth Government legislation.

Typically, residential low care includes resident's accommodation requirements and related services. These comprise of provision of a bedroom, bathroom and access to shared facilities such as lounges, dining rooms and other shared spaces. Bedrooms and communal spaces are fully furnished, bedding is supplied, clothing washed and dried, cleaning services and all meals provided. All maintenance of buildings and gardens is taken care of and qualified staff are on call to provide emergency assistance as may be required. Recreation activities are also offered, including regular outings and trips to local shopping centres.

High Care

Residential high care is for elderly people requiring assistance with the demands of daily living and who have ongoing care needs.

Accommodation in a high care residential facility, sometimes referred to as a nursing home, typically requires the payment of a weekly service fee and, in certain cases, an accommodation charge. These amounts vary amongst providers, are subject of income and asset testing and are subject to determination by Commonwealth Government legislation.

Like residents in low care accommodation, high care residents enjoy a bedroom, bathroom and access to shared facilities such as lounges, dining rooms and other shared spaces. Bedrooms and communal spaces are fully furnished, bedding is supplied, clothing washed and dried, with cleaning services and all meals provided. All maintenance of buildings and gardens is taken care of and there is recreation activities offered.

Additionally, the range of personal care services available is greatly enhanced and is provided depending on the needs of each individual resident.

Many residential high care facilities include a separate and secure dementia wing, where specially trained staff support and care for those suffering the effects of memory loss.