Ngala will run the early learning and development service at Oryx’s aged care facility The Queenslea Claremont which is implementing an intergenerational care model.
Ngala will run the early learning and development service at Oryx Communities’ aged care facility The Queenslea Claremont which is implementing an intergenerational care model.
The $100 million facility, which has 100 aged care beds, 39 serviced apartments for seniors and a childcare service, reached practical completion in mid-May.
It will use a unique intergenerational care model, where older residents and children at the facility can interact through structured and supervised activites.
Oryx Communities managing director Toby Browne-Cooper said while the onsite intergenerational concept was in its infancy in Australia, it had been successful in the United States, where he saw it a decade ago and had been planning to implement it since.
“The elderly benefit from socialising beyond their existing friendship circle,” Mr Browne-Cooper said.
“They increase their self-esteem and emotional wellbeing by sharing their stories, experiences and care to younger people.”
He said people expected more from aged care now.
“The way we view aged care in this country has changed: our residents at The Queenslea will be able to enjoy a homely environment in an enriching and supportive community where couples can stay together and where families, friends and pets are welcome; with the delight of interaction with children available on a daily basis.”
Ngala chief executive Fiona Beermier said the facility would provide all children the opportunity to interact with other generations they might not be exposed to at home.
“The benefit children and their families will gain is undeniable as through this form of interaction, a child will learn to interact with care, empathy, respect for others and develop self-regulations of their emotions,” Ms Beermier said.
Oryx Communities operates The Richardson aged care home in West Perth and recently obtained approval for its Melvista home in Nedlands, which was subject to controversy over the height of the building.
Ngala runs early learning centres in Kensington, Joondalup and Perth Airport, as well a parenting support line and programs to help connect parents and their children.
