Finding the right aged care provider for a loved one is not something most people do every day. So, if you’re facing this important decision, it probably feels a little daunting.
On the other hand, helping people find the best care for a friend or relative is something we specialise in. It’s at the core of who we are at MACG.
To help you discover more about what aged care homes, what to look for, and the questions to ask when making a tour of the home, we created this post.
At MACG we have a relationship-focused approach. Our residents always come first. We want to see them enjoy life to the fullest and be who they really are. For more information, contact us today!
Preparing for your visit to an aged care home
Reading through a aged care provider's website or brochure will help you get a 'feel' for it. If it sounds like it might be a good fit for your loved one, the next step is making contact by phone or email to arrange a visit.
Before you visit the home it's can be helpful to write a list of your priorities and questions so you don’t forget anything important.
We also suggest taking a pen and paper with you so you can make notes. It will probably feel a little overwhelming at first and it may be difficult to remember everything.
Core values and culture of care
For older Australians who are no longer able to live safely in their own homes, the right aged care offers a fantastic solution. By providing a range of services, care and social interaction within a healthy culture, the residents' quality of life is enhanced.
The culture in any care home is strongly influenced by the core values of the company running it.
It's important to check out these values (you may find them on the home's website or brochure, or you can ask the staff about them). When you take a tour, it should be clear how their values show up in the day-to-day running of the home.
On our website, we list our core values:
- Integrity
- Respect
- Compassion
- Accountability
- Diversity
- Courage
- Dignity
These values guide how we deliver the care to our residents, and how we educate and support our staff.
We are committed to creating a secure, comfortable, and safe home environment for all our residents. A place where they can be themselves and enjoy life to the fullest. This commitment is the outworking of our values and is evident to all who visit our homes.
Comfortable living facilities
Take a thorough look around the living spaces. Include the bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms and dining facilities, just as you would if you were viewing any new property to live in.
How does it appear? Does it feel comfortable and homely? What are the noise levels?
Here are some specifics to ask about:
- The menu, dietary provisions and whether a chef prepares the food onsite
- Allied health care, such as physiotherapy, and wound consultants available onsite
- The number of residents sharing the facilities
- Accessibility to a TV and other onsite entertainment
- Gardening, walks and other outdoor activities
A positive and balanced lifestyle of residents
This is highly important. You and your loved one will want to know how it feels to live in the home.
Ask questions to find out if there is a varied program of activities for residents and consider whether those on offer will be of interest.
This type of information is key to making the right choice of home and in helping new residents make the transition as smoothly as possible.
In our aged care homes, we have an extensive program of activities including:
- Well-being programs
- Morning tea groups
- Pet therapy
- Games
- Outdoor walking groups
- Excursions
- Art and craft
- Church services
We also have a fantastic social justice program that we encourage our residents to be involved with. They get a very real sense of purpose from these projects and are able to contribute to the wider community. We find this win-win setup works beautifully, benefiting the community, our residents, and our staff.
Understanding residential aged care fees
Of course, a key consideration when choosing an aged care home will be the fees.
In Australia, the government subsidises some aged care services, but recipients may also be required to contribute financially. The level of contribution is determined through means testing.
For more information on aged care home fees, see our Guide to Aged Care & Costs. See also the government site www.myagedcare.com.au which has a wealth of useful advice and information.
In our care homes, we have a variety of room sizes and a pricing structure to suit different budgets.
Why choose MACG
At our heart, MACG are committed to creating a warm, intimate and friendly environment for our residents. Contact us today if you would like to book a tour of one of our aged care homes in Melbourne or if you would like more information about our services.
