Minister for Aged Care, Anika Wells, has toured a one-of-a-kind aged care ‘micro town’ in Queensland.
The MICRO TOWN® in Bellmere, in the state’s Moreton Bay region, is the first of its kind in Australia, resembling a typical suburban community equipped with a grocery store, community centre, hairdressers, and much more.
“The residents and our team were delighted to have the opportunity to interact with Minister Wells and to showcase our community and explain why our model is so different to every other residential aged care,” said NewDirection Care Founder and Managing Director, Natasha Chadwick.
“The Minister’s visit was an important recognition of the necessity of our service. We deeply appreciate the Government’s continued commitment to improve Australia’s aged care system.
“With more and more Australian’s opting out of ‘traditional’ aged care, older Australians deserve innovative models that meet their growing needs and expectations.”
She said the facility provides residents a true home experience within the larger village, supporting each resident to maintain independence and choice in their life.
“Here at Bellmere, we offer holistic care that not only meticulously attends to each residents’ physical needs, but also their social, mental, and spiritual wellbeing.”
“Life is about more than care and clinical outcomes. At NewDirection Care we focus on providing positive experiences and quality of life as residents age.
“For Minister Wells to witness first-hand the difference of our MICRO TOWN® was an incredible opportunity and an honour.
“The chat with the Minister was really friendly and personal,” said Zara, a team member who works as a House Companion™ Liaison Nurse [enrolled nurse].
“It was the close-knit family at the MICRO TOWN® that drew me to NewDirection Care. I can really build relationships with the residents.”
Judy, a resident who spoke with the Minister, said: “She was so easy to talk to. She asked me questions like am I enjoying myself?”
“Of course, the answer was yes. It’s fantastic here. I’ve been through medicalised care and it can be very isolating.
“I’m so happy my daughter did the research and found NewDirection Care.”
