IN FOCUS: Lifestyle a big part of the care

Smiles are a way of life at St Vincent’s Care Services Werribee. (Supplied)

Just shy of one year after welcoming its first residents, St Vincent’s Care Services Werribee has quickly grown into a supportive and relaxing community where a high-quality lifestyle is key. It’s the kind of place that has recently introduced, for example, an egg-hatching program, with residents delightedly watching over and caring for 12 chickens until they hatched.

Residents love the program, which promotes positive mental health and wellbeing through increased socialisation and a sense of responsibility, as well as sparking conversations and discussions of residents’ fond childhood memories of caring for chickens and collecting eggs.

The aged-care facility, which opened its doors last May, offers residents exceptional care and support within a centrally located and beautifully furnished facility.

Chief executive John Leahy says he is proud of the community residents and staff have created.

“Each week we have been welcoming more residents and it’s been wonderful to see the growth during the 10 short months the facility has been open,” he says.

“The feedback from our residents has been so positive and we feel very lucky to have staff that embody our values of compassion, justice, integrity and excellence.

“We pride ourselves on providing caring and supportive environments and always strive to ensure our residents feel welcome, valued and safe.”

Residents enjoy landscaped gardens and courtyards, comforting common areas with fireplaces, a hairdressing and beauty salon and cafe.

The private resident rooms feature en suite bathrooms and quality contemporary fittings and furnishings, with options for residents to add their own personal touches. A number of rooms have interconnecting doors – perfect for couples.

Co-located with St Vincent’s Private Hospital Werribee and public health services, St Vincent’s Care Services allows residents to enjoy peace of mind, with access to visiting GPs and allied health professionals, including physiotherapists and expert clinical care available if required.

The St Vincent’s holistic approach to aged-care encompasses not just clinical care, but also incorporates leisure and lifestyle or social activities, as well as pastoral and spiritual support tailored to each resident or client’s preferences.

While the Werribee aged-care establishment is yet to reach its first birthday, St Vincent’s Care Services has a legacy of care that was created by the Sisters of Charity more than 175 years ago with the founding of the first St Vincent’s hospital in Sydney.

 

St Vincent’s Care Services Werribee, 240 Hoppers Lane, Werribee. To book a tour call 1800 778 767 or email svcs.info@svha.org.au