Victorian Minister for Ageing, Ingrid Stitt, today turned the first sod at the site of a new $39.6 million aged care facility in Camperdown.
The future facility that will feature 36-beds over two storeys – replacing South West Healthcare’s existing Merindah Lodge at the Camperdown Hospital.
“It is important we take care of our older Victorians by helping them age with dignity, compassion and comfort – facilities like this in Camperdown will mean high-quality public aged care, when they need it and close to home,” the Minister said.
“This new 36-bed facility will provide a home-like setting that focuses on independence and wellbeing, while enabling staff to continue providing high-quality person-centred care and support.”
The new facility will feature dementia-friendly design, with residents to be accommodated in single bedrooms with a private ensuite, in a setting “that promotes dignity, people-centred care and independence” said Minister Stitt.
The design also utilises the concept of ‘small households’ with dedicated kitchen, dining, lounge and break-out sitting areas.
It means residents can ‘age in place’ – an important approach to aged care for many older people, particularly in regional areas, as it allows residents to remain close to support networks and maintain family connections as their care needs increase.
The new Camperdown facility will also support greater connection with the community and wellbeing of residents with the inclusion of new outdoor spaces to promote resident physical and emotional health, as well as encourage increased social interaction.
“This is a fantastic investment for the south west – providing our older Camperdown locals a new, state-of-the-art facility with the care they need, right on their doorstep,” said Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney.
Delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) in partnership with South West Healthcare and AW Nicholson, the project is on track to be completed by 2025.
