A new dementia care redevelopment in Gerringong on the state’s south coast features a unique “memory support unit” to empower residents in their decision making.
Uniting Boronia Gerringong Director of Ageing, Saviour Buhagiar said the special unit of 20 rooms catered specifically for residents with dementia.
“Households at Uniting Gerringong offer support utilising a ‘household model’ of care which empowers residents to make their own choices throughout the day in smaller households of 18-20 people,” said Mr Buhagiar.
“This highly flexible approach honours and respects the wishes of residents by putting their needs first to make sure that they are living the life they want to lead.”
Each new room is designed with an ensuite and ‘memory box’ (pictured) whilst being connected to communal spaces such as a kitchen and living room for residents to form their own ‘household’ with each other.
Current Uniting Boronia residents will move from their temporary accommodation in the John and Helen Robinson building to the new aged care home on December 10.
“This forms part of a plan to deliver more specialised care for residents with dementia whilst maintaining connection to the existing Uniting Gerringong home,” Mr Buhagiar said.
The completed Uniting Boronia home will see the Uniting Gerringong campus offering support to up to 120 people needing residential aged care.
“This is part of Uniting’s strategy to develop a continuum of care that will create ease of access between collocated retirement living, wellness services, assisted living, home care and residential care,” Mr Buhagiar said.
“The Uniting community is excited to provide further support for those living with dementia in Gerringong.
“We continue to look forward to serving the local community in Gerringong by providing them with excellent clinical care and lifestyle options.
“We see the household model of care as the centrepiece of our clinical approach that places a core focus on the dignity and wishes of our residents. This focus on wellbeing and safety is particularly important for older Australians living with dementia.”
Since completion, the Uniting Gerringong campus features a range of accommodation in an established welcoming community. Amenities also include a Seniors Gym, café, salon, and chapel.
Each unit is also equipped with 24/7 emergency call system as a precautionary system for residents.
Mr Buhagiar said the Uniting Home and Community Care team is also available to help ease the burden of daily tasks such as cleaning, shopping or laundry.
