Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Visits Residents at Arcare Cragieburn

Ninety-one year old Betty Jenkins was minding her own business when an inquisitive Ken Wyatt stopped for a chat. On his way to the airport, the Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care visited the Arcare Craigieburn residence to learn more about their unique relationship-focused approach to care.

"When staff genuinely care for the residents and one another you can feel it," he commented. "I noticed it here from the moment I walked in.

"Betty confirmed as much - telling me how her daughter loves her being here, and how she enjoys giving fashion advice as the ‘Fashion Abbey’ in Arcare’s FIVE STARS magazine."

The difference between Arcare and other aged care providers is their focus on relationships. "Historically, aged care was an extension of a hospital. That’s why they were referred to as ‘nursing’ homes," relates Arcare CEO Colin Singh.

Daniella Greenwood continues: "we see the future of aged care being relationships and empowerment of the individual; not trying to cure old age as if it’s an illness."

The Federal Government agrees with their unique approach, awarding Arcare a Better Practice Award in November. "My hope is that others adopt Arcare’s relationship approach," notes the Assistant Minister.

"I asked Colin if I could attend one of their training sessions as I’m keen to see how they bring their values to life to not only improve the residents’ quality of life, but also staff job satisfaction."

Arcare Craigieburn opened in July 2014 and is located on Waterview Boulevard next door to the Aitken Creek Primary School.

With children from the Craigieburn West YMCA Early Learning Centre visiting regularly, and locals wandering in for a coffee at the in-house café, Arcare have created their own community in the heart of Craigieburn.

Click here to find out more about Arcare's aged care services.