I became, in my own mind, part of this family. And they've looked after me with all my needs and it's made me very happy.
– Geoffrey
Our lifestyle activities are designed to help keep residents active and engaged while providing an opportunity for social interaction. Some everyday activities include exercise classes, arts and crafts, group outings, and game nights. While the specific activities vary from home to home, they all share the same goal of providing residents fun and stimulating environment.
We’re happy to answer any questions you have.
There are many reasons why lifestyle activities in aged care homes are essential. First and foremost, they provide residents with a sense of purpose and enjoyment. Activities specifically designed for older adults can help boost cognitive function, improve physical health and coordination, and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Secondly, lifestyle activities can help to create a sense of community within a care home. When residents participate in activities together, they can socialise and form friendships. This can lead to a more positive and supportive environment for everyone involved.
Finally, lifestyle activities can help to make a care home feel more like home. When residents can engage in activities they enjoy, it helps to create a sense of ownership and belonging. Ultimately, these factors contribute to a higher quality of life for residents in aged care homes.
Fewer beds with more individual support
Operating on core family values
We’re transparent in all we do
We train our care teams for the best support
Here is your guide to understanding aged care home fees.
In every aged care home, a basic daily fee is paid on top of your accommodation cost. This fee covers your basic living needs, including meals, laundry and cleaning, and utility costs like power and telecommunications.
The Australian Government sets a maximum basic daily fee that aged care facilities can charge, currently set at $54.69 a day or $19,961.85 per year.
Services Australia sets this fee at 85% of a single Age Pension. The basic daily fee is the same for everyone (even if they don’t receive an Age Pension) and is increased twice a year, March 20th and September 20th, to match the rising cost of living.
Once you submit an Income and Asset Assessment through Centrelink, you will not only be assessed on whether you are eligible for any subsidies but you’ll also be assessed on whether the means-tested care fee is applicable.
If you have to pay the income-tested care fee, it means the government has determined you need to pay extra towards your day-to-day care, but only if you can afford it. Whether this fee applies to you is dependent on your financial situation and if you have a higher level of assets or income. The means-tested care fee will be between $0 and $259.26 per day.
It can take the government some time to calculate the amount you may need to pay for the means-tested care fee. Therefore, you and the aged care home you choose will be notified by letter when the price has been calculated, and payment will be backdated to the date you entered into care.
All aged care providers can charge fees for your accommodation to cover the home's maintenance costs and amenities. Each nursing home sets this daily accommodation price, and it is advertised clearly in the accommodation cost. At MACG, our daily accommodation rate ranges between $27.62 and $88.55.
Many factors influence aged care accommodation costs, including the room size and type, facilities available and property prices. The Income and Asset Assessment will determine whether the Australian Government will subsidise this fee or fully pay for your accommodation costs based on your income earnings and assets.
Many aged care homes in Melbourne offer additional services, similar to a hotel experience. Some common additional services include beauty and hairdressing, satellite television, internet, gyms, pools, workshops and alcohol.
Some aged care homes may allow you to pick and choose the services you want, so you only pay for what you use, whereas others may have an additional package.
These service fees are set by the aged care provider and aren’t subsidised by the government. Therefore, it’s best to consider these as out-of-pocket costs you will need to cover.
Many aged care homes provide extra services that allow residents to upgrade their stay. Things that may be part of an extra service package include extended menus and drink options, higher quality linens and room furnishings.
Extra services usually come in a bundle and can either apply to specific room types or an entire retirement village. These extra services are not government subsidised.
The government provides a few aged care subsidy programs to assist residents who struggle to afford aged care support. The main program you can apply for is Financial Hardship Assistance. If you are eligible, the Australian Government will assist in paying some or all of your aged care fees (this includes respite care). Find out if you are eligible for Financial Hardship Assistance.
Activity costs are generally up to the individual care home and depend on the activity. Some aged care homes offer a wide range of activities at no additional price, while others charge a fee for certain activities and outings. Activities can include anything from arts and crafts to fitness classes to outings. Contact each care home to learn more about the cost of our lifestyle activities.
Our aged care staff are committed to providing the best possible care for our residents. We offer a range of lifestyle activities that help our residents stay active and engaged, and we are here to support them at every step. Our activities include exercise classes, arts and crafts, group outings, and more. We also provide a wide range of services to help our residents with their daily needs, such as transportation, personal care, and medical support. Our goal is to help our residents live their best lives, and we are here to support them at every step.
Our homes are equipped with the best amenities and staffing to keep our residents healthy and happy.
● 24-hour staffing with qualified care teams
● Care services to suit all needs and preferences
● Allied health services
● Meals cooked on-site and designed by dietitians
● Laundry cleaned on-site
We endeavour to keep our residents engaged with various lifestyle activities and programs.
● Meditation and relaxation
● Cultural and spiritual wellbeing
● Social, emotional, and pastoral support
● Memory and reminiscence programs
● Mobility, wellness and sensory programs
● Seated Tai Chi and walking groups
● Physiotherapy exercise classes
● Community giving, volunteering and fundraising
● Meal preparation and baking
● Music, movies, and travel exploration
● Pet and animal visits
Our residents love giving back to their local community, and we strive to make this happen.
● We work with charities such as Beyond Blue and Cancer Council Australia
● Each home supports a charity in the local region
● Residents can choose how to volunteer with their family members, such as baking, knitting and fundraising
The Income and Asset Assessment is a means test set by the Australian Government to decide if you are eligible for a Commonwealth subsidy for part or all of your aged care home fees.
In this means test, your income and assets are evaluated. What is considered ‘income’ includes but is not limited to financial investments, age, disability or service pensions, income support payments, bonds, shares, your superannuation, family trusts and super funds.
Assets include properties you own (including your own home), investment properties, private or partnered businesses, and more. You will be asked a range of questions regarding your income and assets to determine your eligibility for subsidies.
You can complete the Income and Assets Assessment online through My Aged Care.
The assessment is broken down into three steps and is fairly quick to complete. The same form is used for all support types, whether you’re looking for short or long-term care or support in the home.
To complete the assessment, you will need your Medicare card. You can also organise for a representative to complete the application on your behalf.
The online assessment should not take longer than 20 minutes of your time. However, after submitting the assessment, you will receive a call to arrange a complete evaluation and review of your application.
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There are three different ways you can pay your aged care fees:
MACG’s preferred method of payment is via direct debit. Therefore, a direct debit form will be provided to you during the pre-admissions meeting.
Monthly statements are issued to permanent residents (or their representatives) at the beginning of the month and detail the debit amount. This direct debit is processed on the 15th of every month (bar public holidays or weekends in which the payment will be taken the following business day).
If you have any questions about the admissions process, cost of care, or would like to book a tour, please contact our Admissions Team.
Boronia
Our residents enjoy a warm, homelike atmosphere at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges.
Carrum Downs
Our residents live happy and fulfilled lives, and we help each person to achieve their best lifestyle.
Narre Warren
Read a good book in front of the warm fireplaces or explore the peaceful, landscaped gardens.
Narre Warren South
Our residents enjoy the beautiful gardens and a range of on-site facilities, including the chicken coop.
Ashwood
In the leafy suburb of Ashwood you will find Grand Cedar Aged Care. See for yourself what makes it special.
Coburg
Residents here appreciate the homelike atmosphere and enjoy the sun in the beautiful outdoor spaces.
Hughesdale
A warm and welcoming environment featuring old-world charm along with modern facilities.
Parkdale
This coastal home features views of Port Philip Bay and courtyards for our residents to enjoy.
Traralgon
Residents cherish the intimate relationships they have with the care team and the wider community.
Aged care homes provide opportunities for older adults to socialise and stay active. Studies have shown that aged care residents who participate in regular activities have better physical and mental health outcomes. They are more likely to be independent and have a higher quality of life.
Activities also help to reduce the risk of depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions. In addition, they provide a sense of purpose and can help to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness. Ultimately, activities are an essential part of aged care, and every care home should offer a range of programs that cater to the diverse needs of older adults.
Leisure activities provide a break from the demands of work and everyday life. In our fast-paced, constantly connected world, it is more important than ever to take time for leisure activities. They can help to reduce stress, improve our moods, and boost our overall well-being. In addition, leisure activities can also satisfy our need for social interaction, creativity, and self-expression. Whether playing tennis with friends or simply taking a leisurely walk in the park, we meet fundamental human needs. As such, leisure activities play an essential role in our lives.
As people age, they often become less active, which can cause health problems, a decrease in muscle mass, and a loss of balance and coordination. While it’s important to stay active as you age, choosing activities that are safe and suitable for your level of fitness is also important.
For elderly residents, some practical activities may include walking, swimming, yoga, Tai Chi, and light weightlifting. These activities can help to improve flexibility, muscle strength, and balance. They can also help to reduce the risk of falls and other injuries.
In addition, many of these activities can be done in a group setting, which can help to reduce loneliness and isolation. People must find activities that fit their lifestyle and abilities as they age. By choosing safe and enjoyable activities, elderly residents can maintain their health and well-being.
If you find you’re unable to afford residential aged care costs, there are a number of avenues you can explore for assistance. If your Income and Asset Assessment determines you can’t afford aged care services, the Australian Government can provide subsidies for aged care support.
You may be eligible for Financial Hardship Assistance to partially or fully cover the basic daily fee, means-tested care fee and accommodation costs. Each case is assessed individually and depends on the type of care you need.
You can also consult with a Financial Information Services (FIS) representative. The FIS is an entirely free Australian Government program that helps you make informed decisions about your finances.
If you require assistance or more information, please contact any of the departments below.
You may also wish to gain specialist advice from an Aged Care Financial Planner to restructure your finances to your best advantage when entering care.
See your local MACG home and get a feel for the community.
