Our approach to Dementia Care
Every person experiences dementia differently, which is why our approach begins with getting to know the individual. We take the time to understand each resident’s life story, routines, preferences, culture, interests, abilities and care needs so we can provide support that is meaningful to them.
At Nexia Aged Care, New Gisborne, we have a dedicated Dementia Enabling Environment, affectionately known within the home as Lorikeet Lane. This welcoming neighbourhood includes 13 private suites and has been designed to provide additional safety, familiarity and reassurance for people living with dementia, while supporting independence and a sense of belonging.
At Nexia Aged Care, Footscray, we provide mixed levels of care, including low care, high care, dementia care and palliative care. While Footscray does not have a dedicated Dementia Enabling Environment, our experienced care team provides individualised support for people living with dementia and those with other complex care needs. This may include assistance with daily living, behavioural and emotional support, and meaningful activities tailored to individual needs and abilities.
Across both homes, our focus remains the same: helping every resident feel safe, respected, understood and connected.
When to Consider Dementia Care
Dementia progresses differently for everyone, and the type and level of support a person needs may change over time. You may wish to explore additional dementia care and support if:
- Your loved one requires additional assistance with everyday activities.
- You notice increased confusion, restlessness or changes in behaviour that are becoming difficult to manage at home.
- Safety or supervision has become a concern.
- Their care needs have increased and additional professional support may be beneficial.
If you are unsure about the next step, speaking with your GP or contacting our team can help you better understand the options available. An Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) can also assess eligibility for government-funded aged care services and provide guidance through the process.
Tailored Care Plans for Individual Needs
Our dementia care is designed around the individual needs of each resident. Personalised care plans may incorporate professional nursing, allied health services, nutritious meals, assistance with daily living and enriching activities that reflect each person’s interests, abilities and preferences.
Our team works closely with residents, families and nominated representatives to understand what is important to each person and how we can best support them. This includes getting to know their routines, preferences, personal history, culture, values, beliefs and meaningful connections.
By building genuine relationships and understanding the person behind the care needs, we aim to provide care that supports dignity, choice, comfort and quality of life.
Creating a Calm, Supportive Environment
We strive to create welcoming environments where people living with dementia feel safe, comfortable and supported. Familiar routines can help provide reassurance, while opportunities for social interaction, activities and meaningful engagement support residents to remain connected to everyday life.
We understand that dementia can result in changes to behaviour, communication and emotional wellbeing. Our care teams respond to these changes with patience, sensitivity and understanding, adapting their approach to each resident while respecting their individuality, choices and dignity.
From welcoming communal spaces and familiar routines to freshly prepared meals and meaningful daily activities, our approach is centred on creating a sense of comfort, connection and belonging.
Respite Care for People Living with Dementia
Caring for someone living with dementia can be rewarding, but there may be times when families, carers and nominated representatives need additional support.
Our respite care services provide short-term residential care in a supportive environment, giving carers an opportunity to take a break while the person they support receives professional care and assistance.
Respite care can also provide an opportunity for a person living with dementia, together with their family or nominated representative, to become familiar with residential aged care, the environment and our care team.
A Homelike Environment
At Nexia Aged Care, we believe residential aged care should feel like home. Our private suites and welcoming communal areas are designed to provide comfort while supporting residents to maintain social connections and participate in everyday life. Mealtimes are an important part of the day, providing opportunities for enjoyment, familiarity and connection. Our teams provide fresh, nourishing meals and work to accommodate residents’ individual dietary requirements and preferences.
We also recognise that feeling at home means something different to every person. Our teams take the time to understand each resident’s routines, preferences, culture, traditions and personal history so these can be respected and incorporated into daily life wherever possible.
Visiting and Staying Connected
Maintaining meaningful relationships and connections is an important part of wellbeing for people living with dementia.
We encourage family, friends and other important people in a resident’s life to remain connected and involved. Whether it’s spending time together, sharing a meal, participating in an activity or simply enjoying each other’s company, regular connection can provide familiarity, reassurance and a continued sense of belonging.
Our teams also work closely with families and nominated representatives, who can provide valuable insight into a resident’s history, preferences, routines, culture and interests, helping us better understand and support each person.
Ageing in place: Care That Grows with You
As your health needs evolve, Nexia Aged Care supports ageing in place. This means that as your care requirements increase, you can continue to live in the same comfortable, familiar environment, without the need to move.
Whether you need more assistance with mobility, daily tasks, or have increasing healthcare needs, we are committed to providing the right care for you as you age.
Start Your Journey with Nexia Aged Care
Choosing dementia care is an important decision, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our team is here to answer questions, understand each person’s individual needs and support residents, families and nominated representatives to explore the care options available at Nexia Aged Care, New Gisborne and Footscray.
Contact our team today to learn more about dementia care, discuss availability or arrange a tour of one of our homes.