Seniors in Sutherland Shire will have more options for aged care and accommodation, with the opening of a new $40 million project.
Situated on The Avenue, Heathcote, the new St Anne's Wing at St Vincent's Care Services, a three-storey building, officially swung its doors open on October 19.
A community day welcomed its first residents, who started their stay on Monday.
Catering for up to 93 residents, including four room configurations for couples, the site complements the established and close-knit aged care and independent retirement community, known as John Paul Village.
Residents at St Anne's will enjoy light-filled spaces, contemporary furnishings, and a large welcoming and protected internal courtyard, in addition to the many shared facilities across the campus.
St Vincent's Care Services is the aged care division of St Vincent's Health Australia, one of Australia's leading Catholic health and aged care providers.
It also manages Stella Maris at Cronulla.
With a focus on tailored care and support for each resident's needs and preferences, St Vincent's Care Services Heathcote delivers diverse clinical care options balanced with an extensive and personalised leisure and lifestyle program within comfortable, fully serviced accommodation.
The project has come into fruition after about four to five years of planning, to address the need for an expansion of high level care for aged care residents, including those with dementia.
There is an emphasis on social interaction and inclusion, to make residents and their families feel as they are part of a community.
Facility manager John Kemsley says the opening was a success.
"It was a great day. We had about 400 people through the facility," he said.
"Each individual single room is beautifully appointed with a courtyard, and we have an executive chef who cooks premium, fresh food every day. There are activities like bus outings, bingo, and we have a nurse on site 24/7."
Sutherland Shire Mayor Carmelo Pesce says the new addition will serve the shire's ageing population well.
"With nearly 50,000 residents over the age of 60, many of our residents want to stay local when they move to aged care facilities to remain part of the community, so it is wonderful to see these facilities expanding and providing our seniors with the care and services they need," he said.
"Council has a great working relationship with St Vincent's Care Services who are a valued part of our aged care network and also members of the Sutherland Shire Collaborative on Abuse of Older People."
Tours can be arranged for families.
Details: 1800 778 767 or online.
