When you imagine living in an aged care facility what images come to mind? Well imagine being in your community and the outside of your home looking like your neighbors. That is Group Homes Australia. 

I decided to visit Group Homes Australia after being informed by them by other providers and understanding their model of care further by having a limit of 6-10 residents per home. I was excited to hear about these limitations as they enable on-site staff to provide more personalized care compared to the other ratios I have seen in some countries where it was 1:50 or 1:25. 

When I walked to one of the homes of GHA I was amazed to have passed right by it since no sign was outside the home. I then walked along the pathway and approached the door a bit hesitant but was greeted by Tamar, CEO of Group Homes Australia. 

When I entered the home, I loved how they had an intentional space for families to gather beyond the room. I also appreciated very much this one space in the dining room that was meant for residents to give them purpose. For example, a laundry basket, some books, puzzles, and other activities that they can choose from. I also loved how they had fruits easily able to be grabbed by residents. I was amazed by this as often in aged care we tend to lock and limit food items for residents. 

Walking through the care home, I felt like I was at home visiting family members. They have a great outdoor space to be able to gather there as well. Again, feeling like home and having the ability to be outside. 

I was also very excited to hear a bit more about the five-day retreats they are spearheading. This is revolutionary in the realm of aged care and dementia care. How can we ensure that care partner and their loved ones are provided onsite training to gain new tools to help them in the long run? I am curious to understand how we can take this a step further and do this in one’s home. Is it possible? How can we ensure we assess the home, provide recommendations, and empower their home for five days? I believe by being able to live in their shoes we can gain a better understanding and holistically empower the family, and shift their aging journey from isolation to connection and distress to creativity. 

I love the idea of the retreats as it has a ripple effect with the cohort of individuals that are there as now they can communicate with one another and provide support amongst peers as the journey of dementia varies. 

 I also appreciated hearing more about the success of the team. Tamar emphasized the importance of the team members and providing training. She mentioned that her team is the foundation of the incredible work they can provide.

Thank you again!