When you stay with us for the weekend, you'll want to pack daily necessities such as:
Plus any devices you use often, and chargers for these devices.
It has happened before. Sometimes, a resident's carer is unable to resume duties once the weekend is over. In these cases, we work with our residents to find the best alternate solution — whether that involves staying longer in our homes, or accessing our day respite program instead. But we'll never leave you without care.
You can stay connected with us and any friends you made during your stay by accessing our day respite services. Get in touch with our team to find out if your eligible, and how day respite works.
That depends on which home you are attending, and what type of room you'd like to secure. At MACG, we keep our costs low because we believe everyone deserves access to support and care. For more information, contact our friendly team and we'd be happy to walk you through the costs of our services.
While we provide rooms and bedding, we recommend bringing a few items with you, even for a short stay. Try to remember to bring the following with you:
We also ask that you label any clothes you bring so they don't get mixed up or lost.
We have registered nurses on-site. If you are very unwell, we'll ensure you get to hospital quickly and receive medical treatment. If you have a preference for how you'd like the situation to be handled should you fall sick, please let us know. This way, we can make sure you receive treatment your way.
Short term respite care is for older people who need to live with round the clock professional care, but only for a limited amount of time. It's ideal for people who might live with a carer at home, for a period in which the carer is unavailable. We can provide care for people living with dementia or Alzheimer's, but also for older people not not living with those conditions.
There are certain things that we recommend our guests bring along, even when they're just coming for a short stay.
That's absolutely fine! In addition to short term respite care, we also offer long term respite care and also permanent residential care.
Dementia respite care is a great way for carers to get a break, confident in the knowledge that great care is still being provided to the person living with dementia while the carer is away. At MACG, we can provide care for a variety of different times and situations. For example, we have day centre care, short term, long term, and emergency respite options.
Carers can access dementia respite care if they care for somebody with dementia. Other forms of respite care are available for carers who look after somebody aged 65 or over (or 50 years or over if the person being cared for is a Torres Strait Islander or an Aboriginal person). Government-subsidised respite care can be accessed for both overnight and day stays in our homes.
We certainly can. We can provide respite care at short notice, subbing in for palliative carers when they have an emergency. Respite care is subsidised by the government for a set number of days per year, and we endeavour to keep beds free for respite care so you people can move in at a time that suits them.
We administer palliative care for many terminal conditions. Reach out to our team for more guidance on support we offer, including palliative care for cancer.
It is always possible to provide home palliative care for motor neurone disease. Conditions such as motor neurone disease frequently progress to the point of requiring dedicated full-time care. At MACG, we are committed to nursing individuals and meeting their needs across physical and other dimensions.
Not at all, MACG can administer palliative treatment regardless of the specific terminal condition. Our team can provide further guidance, including palliative treatment for motor neurone disease.
The expenses associated with palliative care depend on a number of things including:
We can explore the unique needs of every resident, along with information on care requirements and costs.
Not everybody is able to receive lung cancer palliative care at home. In an advanced condition, respiratory illnesses like lung cancer require full time care. At MACG, we provide the best possible end of life care, with treatment that addresses physical, spiritual, and emotional needs.
Yes. We can provide palliative care for many different diseases, from lung and ovarian cancer palliative care to care for people with dementia. Get in contact with our team, and find out more about what we can do to help.
There are a number of factors that modify the cost of palliative care at our homes. For example:
Our team can provide more information and discuss what is necessary to address any specific needs. We can also provide guidance around the scope and costs of care.
When people are unable to access home palliative dementia care, full time dedicated settings are required. At MACG, our nursing staff are qualified to give holistic treatment targeting body, mind and spirit.
Our qualified nursing staff can nurture individuals through any terminal condition. If you reach out to us, we can provide more guidance on what to do during this difficult time.
Palliative care expenses vary depending on:
We can work together on unique preferences and needs, plus advice on the costs and extent of care.
We have a team of trained, registered nurses who provide care 24/7. They're experienced in working with people who have had a stroke, and are able to provide excellent palliative care. We provide palliative care for many different conditions, including people who have had a stroke.
We work as quickly as possible to admit people into our homes, so we can start providing care. We do, however, limit the number of beds we offer, and availability varies. Get in contact with our team to find out a more precise timeline for admission.
The costs of stroke palliative care, like all palliative care we provide, depends on several factors. For example, we look at:
Reach out to our team to find out more, and we'll outline the costs of the specific care you need.
Occasionally, it is necessary for people to move from home to receive respiratory failure palliative care. Illnesses such as respiratory failure sometimes develop to the point of requiring full time nursing in dedicated locations. MACG homes ensure the physical, psychological, emotional and other needs of individuals are met in 24/7 care.
Yes, palliative options are available for all terminal conditions. For further guidance on how we can help, including with palliative respiratory failure, please contact our team.
The costs associated with palliative nursing are a function of several factors such as:
We can discuss specific needs and preferences, as well as answer queries on costs and nursing services.
Cardiac conditions, like congestive heart failure, can necessitate palliative care. When the disease is severe, full time nursing care is needed. MACG homes look after a person's emotional, psychological and physical needs with qualified 24/7 support.
We certainly can. Our team is capable of providing excellent palliative care for a range of different conditions, and maximise quality of life.
There are several factors that go into determining the cost of palliative care. For example, we take into account things like:
To get a more precise idea of the costs involved, reach out to our team and they'll be happy to take you through our pricing.
At times, it is unavoidable that people need to move from home into a dedicated setting and given round the clock care by nurses. MACG homes ensure individuals have their physical and other needs met 24/7.
We offer palliative treatment for every terminal condition. Please get in touch to speak with our team about the many options we have available.
The cost of palliative care very much depends on various factors, like:
We are available to discuss particular preferences or needs, and can answer all questions about services.
Sometimes people with Huntington's disease need to shift from their own home to a dedicated aged care home in order to receive the care they need. Our MACG homes resolutely focus on meeting their bodily, psychological, social and pastoral needs in a 24/7 setting.
Yes, we do. Palliative treatment is provided for any and all terminal conditions. To get more information please contact us.
The cost of palliative nursing depends on a variety of factors such as:
We can explore particular needs or preferences, and answer questions regarding expenses and other matters.
Sometimes those with terminal neurological conditions can no longer receive receive home palliative care. These often develop to the point that residents require care full-time. We are committed here at MACG to nursing every individual across all the dimensions of their life.
Neurological conditions are only one class of illness we are able to treat palliatively. Our team can offer further guidance on this question and any inquiries regarding how we treat neurological conditions.
The costs of palliative care reflect a number factors, including:
We can discuss each resident's specific circumstances and the costs that might apply.
Our team are committed to providing exceptional care for all our residents and this includes having the correct qualifications to provide 24-hour care. We ensure all of our nursing care team holds full qualifications and registrations. We also ensure our entire catering and housekeeping staff hold relevant industry certifications. We believe that training and development are crucial to providing exceptional support which is why we are committed to the ongoing education of our staff.
Each of our homes has different staffing ratios dependent on the number of residents and beds occupied at the current time. We ensure our ratios are monitored on an ongoing basis and if changes occur we make the necessary adjustments to staff schedules. If you’d like to enquire about a specific home, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
We understand the emotional strain the entire family can feel having to move your loved one into an aged care home. As a leading care provider, we take the responsibility for our residents’ safety very seriously.
We perform regular environmental audits and risk assessments to ensure our homes are safe and secure. We also have keypad entry and exits in all homes as well as CCTV in common areas. Residents can contact staff using the call bell systems throughout the home. We also have sensor mats and door sensors for extra security.
Family members are more than welcome to speak with their resident’s care worker to discuss specific care services or safety concerns.
We understand that what’s most important to a lot of families is that their elderly parents stay living together. Being separated can be distressing, especially for residents suffering from dementia or other memory loss conditions.
We take the safety and security of our residents very seriously. We’re always aware of who is entering our care homes through entries and exit keypads and with CCTV cameras in common areas. We also have call bell systems throughout every home that residents can contact staff on. For an added layer of security, we also have sensor mats and door sensors.
If you have any concerns, please talk to a carer at one of our homes today to discuss any safety concerns you feel may arise with your family member.
Each of our retirement homes has different staff ratios depending on factors pertinent to that home. We follow all Victorian Government mandates concerning staff ratios to ensure the best care for our residents. You’re more than welcome to ask us any questions about staff ratios by getting in touch with our team.
The accommodation cost in a retirement village depends on a range of factors including things like the type of live-in care requirements, a resident's income and assets, means testing, and any additional home care costs. You can learn more about nursing home fees here or reach out to us. We maintain transparency with all costs which will be discussed with you during the pre-admission meeting.
For the elderly, physiotherapy can help to improve mobility, reduce pain, and prevent falls. In addition, physiotherapy can also help to improve the wellbeing of people living with dementia.
A physiotherapist will develop an individualised treatment plan based on the client's specific needs. This may involve exercises to improve strength and balance, hands-on therapy to reduce pain, and education on how to prevent injuries.
By providing comprehensive care, a physiotherapist can help the elderly maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.
Physiotherapy is a type of physical therapy that uses exercises and stretching to improve range of motion and relieve pain. It can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, including back pain, joint pain, arthritis, headaches, and injuries.
Physiotherapy can also help to improve balance and coordination and to increase strength and flexibility. In addition, physiotherapy can prevent injuries by helping to improve posture and maintain proper body alignment. When combined with other services and treatments, such as massage or acupuncture, physiotherapy can effectively manage pain and improve overall health.
A physiotherapist is an important palliative care team member and primarily focuses on quality of life. This means maximising a person's independence and mobility, managing pain and fatigue, and helping them maintain their strengthonce palliative fitness is not required.
Physiotherapists can also advise on coping with the symptoms of a terminal illness, such as shortness of breath. As part of a multidisciplinary team, physiotherapists play a vital role in providing palliative care tailored to each resident’s individual needs, from high to low level care.
During an eye exam, an optometrist will conduct a comprehensive examination of the health of your eyes. First, they will check your visual acuity to see how clearly you can see. Next, they will check your eye muscles to see if they are working correctly. They will also test your pupils to see how they respond to light. Finally, they will check the health of your eyes by examining your retina and optic nerve. By testing all of these things, the optometrist can determine if you need glasses or contact lenses and whether or not you have any underlying eye conditions.
Australian permanent residents are eligible for Medicare-subsidised eye tests provided by optometrists. If the optometrist bulk bills the government on your behalf, you won't have to pay anything for the eye test. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, Medicare will also cover a portion of the cost of your lenses, but you may have to pay some out-of-pocket expenses.
An eye exam can provide a window into your overall health, and many common diseases can be detected through changes in your eyesight. For example, diabetes is often first diagnosed after a routine eye exam reveals high blood sugar levels. High cholesterol can also lead to fatty deposits in the eye's blood vessels, which can be detected during an exam.
In addition, several types of cancer, including melanoma and lymphoma, can cause changes in the appearance of the eye that may be spotted during an exam. While most changes are benign, it is important to have any new symptoms checked out by a qualified medical professional.
Some aged care homes provide various cancer care services, including cancer screenings, support groups, and cancer education. In addition, these care homes have staff members who are trained in cancer care. Aged care homes that offer cancer management services often have a wide range of amenities, such as private rooms, kitchenettes, and laundry facilities. This allows residents to have all of the comforts of home while receiving the best possible care.
Palliative care is a type of medical care that focuses on relieving the symptoms and stress of a severe illness. Palliative care can be helpful at any stage of severe disease. Still, it is often most beneficial when the goal of treatment has shifted from curing the condition to managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
As we age, it's normal to experience changes in our emotional and mental health. We may feel isolated, have trouble sleeping, or struggle with anxiety or depression. However, several services are available to support older people's emotional and mental health in aged care homes. These services include counselling, support groups, activities, hobbies and medication management. These are just a few services available to support older people's emotional and mental health in our care homes.
One of the main factors that impact the mental health of older Australians is social isolation. Loneliness can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety and can also interfere with sleep.
Another factor that can affect mental health is a chronic illness. Dealing with a chronic disease can be stressful and lead to feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
In addition, financial insecurity can also take a toll on mental health. Older adults struggling to make ends meet may experience anxiety and stress.
Finally, loss and grief can also be significant factors in declining mental health. The death of a loved one, whether it be a spouse, friend, or pet, can lead to feelings of grief and loneliness. All of these factors can contribute to mental health problems in aged persons.
The best exercise for older adults is the one they enjoy and can stick to. It's important to find an enjoyable activity, as this will make it easier to commit to it long-term.
The programs offered at MACG are designed with care by our qualified staff, who receive specific training in older adults exercise. We offer a variety of class types and exercises that cater to our resident's interests and fitness levels. These include:
It's recommended that older Australians exercise for at least 30 minutes on most, if not all, days of the week. Regular exercise has many benefits, including assisting in everyday tasks, staying independent, keeping at a healthy weight and maintaining mobility.
However, it's important to start slowly and build up gradually if you're not used to exercising regularly. You may need to begin with just 10 minutes of exercise daily and gradually increase this as you become more fit.
If you have existing medical conditions, your fitness instructor can tailor an exercise program to meet your individual needs.
Active exercise is any exercise that gets your heart rate up and makes you breathe more heavily. Some examples of active exercises include walking, jogging, swimming, dancing and biking.
Passive exercise is any type of exercise that doesn't require you to use any major muscle groups. This type of exercise is often recommended for older Australians as it's less likely to cause injuries. Some examples of passive exercises include Tai Chi and chair-based exercises.
To perform exercises in a chair, you'll need a comfortable chair that doesn't have arms. Your starting position for most exercises will be sitting up tall with your feet flat on the floor.
Chair exercises generally involve moving your arms, legs, and sometimes your head and trunk. These movements may be small and slow or larger and faster, depending on your fitness level and the type of exercise. It's important to start slowly and increase the intensity gradually as you become more fit.
Here are some examples of chair-based exercises that you can do:
If you have any questions or concerns about starting an exercise program, please speak to your doctor before starting.
Many of our classes are free for residents, with some of our more specialised classes costing a small fee. We offer a range of payment options to suit everyone, and our friendly staff are always happy to answer any questions you may have.
The four key components of exercises for aged care residents are cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, balance and flexibility.
Some exercises that can benefit older Australians include walking, swimming, Tai Chi and yoga. It's important to find an activity you enjoy, as this will make it more likely that you'll stick to it in the long term.
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art-making to explore emotions, relieve stress, and improve self-esteem. Art therapists are trained mental health professionals who use art-making to help people heal from psychological difficulties.
Fine motor skills are the coordination of small muscle movements, such as fingers, typically to perform tasks like writing or picking up small objects. For the elderly, fine motor skills can often deteriorate due to age-related conditions such as arthritis or Parkinson’s disease. Art therapy can be an effective way to help improve these skills.
Residents can strengthen their muscles and improve their dexterity through activities like painting or sculpture. In addition, art therapy can also help to alleviate cognitive decline by providing a creative outlet for expression. As a result, art therapy can be a beneficial way to help maintain the fine motor skills of the elderly.
While there is no cure for dementia, treatments available can help improve the quality of life for those suffering from the condition. One such treatment is art therapy, which has been shown to provide a number of benefits for residents with dementia.
Art therapy can help stimulate the mind and ease anxiety while providing a creative outlet for self-expression. In addition, art therapy sessions can provide an opportunity for social interaction and connection with others. While the exact mechanism by which art therapy helps to improve the symptoms of dementia is not fully understood, it is clear that this activity can positively impact a resident's physical and mental well-being.
Aged care homes can use music therapy to address residents' physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. Music therapy services can be provided one-on-one or in groups and are adapted to each individual’s abilities and preferences. Some examples of how music therapy can be used in aged care include:
Numerous studies have shown that music therapy can be beneficial for older adults. For example, music therapy has improved cognitive function, mood, and sleep quality in older adults. It can also help to reduce anxiety and depression, and it can even help to improve balance and coordination. In addition, music therapy can be a fun and enjoyable way for older adults to socialise and connect with others. Music therapy offers many benefits for the elderly, making it an excellent choice for those seeking additional support as they age.
Music therapists are trained to use music to improve their clients' physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. They work with people of all ages and abilities, using music to address various needs. Music therapy can be used to improve communication and social skills, relieve stress and anxiety, ease pain, and boost mood. Music therapists use a variety of techniques, including song writing, improvisation, and lyric analysis. By working closely with their clients, they can tailor each session to meet the specific needs of the individual.
Dementia is a progressive decline in cognitive function, which can lead to changes in mood and behaviour. Music therapy has been shown to minimise the behavioural and psychological symptoms associated with dementia. Music therapy can also provide structure and routine, which can benefit people with dementia. Furthermore, music therapy can help stimulate memories and promote communication.
Tai Chi is a low-impact form of exercise that can help improve balance and flexibility and increase muscle strength and stamina. Additionally, Tai Chi has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, enhance sleep quality, and boost cognitive function and cardiovascular health. Because it is relatively gentle and requires no specialised equipment, Tai Chi is an ideal exercise for seniors. Furthermore, Tai Chi can be done in a group setting, providing social interaction and support. Tai Chi is an excellent option for seniors looking for an enjoyable way to improve their health and well-being.
Tai Chi is a form of mindfulness meditation in which practitioners are focused on the present moment and their bodily movements. Tai Chi exercise can help to increase feelings of calm and relaxation while reducing stress and anxiety. In addition, this exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia. Finally, Tai Chi is a social activity that can help to reduce loneliness and isolation. All of these factors combine to make Tai Chi an effective tool for maintaining mental health.
It is generally recommended that seniors do Tai Chi at least three times per week. This moderate frequency enables them to maintain their current fitness level and achieve the other benefits of Tai Chi, such as improved balance and flexibility. However, some seniors may need to do Tai Chi more frequently to see results. As always, it is essential to consult a doctor before starting any new exercise regime.
As people age, they often become less active, which can cause health problems, a decrease in muscle mass, and a loss of balance and coordination. While it’s important to stay active as you age, choosing activities that are safe and suitable for your level of fitness is also important.
For elderly residents, some practical activities may include walking, swimming, yoga, Tai Chi, and light weightlifting. These activities can help to improve flexibility, muscle strength, and balance. They can also help to reduce the risk of falls and other injuries.
In addition, many of these activities can be done in a group setting, which can help to reduce loneliness and isolation. People must find activities that fit their lifestyle and abilities as they age. By choosing safe and enjoyable activities, elderly residents can maintain their health and well-being.
Aged care homes provide opportunities for older adults to socialise and stay active. Studies have shown that aged care residents who participate in regular activities have better physical and mental health outcomes. They are more likely to be independent and have a higher quality of life.
Activities also help to reduce the risk of depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions. In addition, they provide a sense of purpose and can help to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness. Ultimately, activities are an essential part of aged care, and every care home should offer a range of programs that cater to the diverse needs of older adults.
Leisure activities provide a break from the demands of work and everyday life. In our fast-paced, constantly connected world, it is more important than ever to take time for leisure activities. They can help to reduce stress, improve our moods, and boost our overall well-being. In addition, leisure activities can also satisfy our need for social interaction, creativity, and self-expression. Whether playing tennis with friends or simply taking a leisurely walk in the park, we meet fundamental human needs. As such, leisure activities play an essential role in our lives.
The wellness approach in aged care is based on the belief that ageing is a normal process that should be celebrated. This approach focuses on helping older people to maintain their independence and wellbeing and to live fulfilling lives. To do this, aged care providers work to promote physical, mental, social and emotional wellbeing. This includes providing opportunities for older people to stay active and connected with their community. It also involves giving support when needed, such as help with activities of daily living or respite care. By taking a wellness approach, aged care providers can help older people age well and enjoy life to the fullest.
We promote health and wellness in our aged care homes in many ways. Still, some of the most effective include providing opportunities for socialisation, encouraging physical activity, and offering healthy food options. Socialisation helps to reduce loneliness and isolation, two common risk factors for poor mental health. Physical activity helps to improve strength and balance, reduces the risk of falls, and can lift mood and spirits. And finally, offering healthy food options helps ensure that residents get the nutrients they need to stay healthy and avoid chronic disease. Promoting health and wellness in aged care homes can help older adults live longer, healthier lives.
A wide range of programs and services are available to residents, from exercise classes and group activities to individualised care plans. While each of our aged care homes will have unique offerings, some common programs effectively promote wellness and maintaining health, including exercise classes, social activities and individualised care plans.
Emergency respite care can provide temporary relief when a caregiver needs a break. This type of care allows a primary caregiver to have time for themselves, knowing that their loved one is in safe hands. Respite care can be provided in various settings, including in-home, adult daycare centres, or aged care homes. It can be scheduled in advance or arranged on short notice in an emergency. Emergency respite care can be a lifesaver for caregivers feeling overwhelmed or stressed. If you are a caregiver in need of a break, don't hesitate to reach out for help.
There are a few different ways to arrange emergency respite care. One option is to contact a home health agency. These agencies can provide trained caregivers who can come to your home on short notice and give the care your loved one needs.
Another option is to contact an aged care home like MACG. Our homes have staff members who are available to provide respite care on an as-needed basis. If you have insurance, you can also get coverage for respite care through your insurance provider. No matter how you arrange it, emergency respite care can be a lifesaver when you're overwhelmed by caring for a sick loved one.
The level of respite care will vary depending on the caregiver's needs and the individual receiving care. Still, it can include everything from personal care and hygiene assistance to meals and transportation. Regardless of the situation, emergency respite care can provide much-needed relief for caregivers while ensuring that their loved ones continue to receive the high level of care they need and deserve.
In aged care, stroke care involves a team of specialists who work together to provide comprehensive support for stroke survivors. This team may include doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. Together, they will develop a care plan that meets the individual needs of the stroke survivor.
We provide support for all types of stroke survivors. We have various resources available to help you recover and live your best life. We offer support groups, individual counseling, and educational materials. We also have a 24/7 helpline to call for support or advice. Our goal is to help you through every step of your recovery journey. We know that strokes can be debilitating and life-changing, but we also know that recovery is possible. With our help, you can regain your independence and lead a fulfilling life.
Stroke is a leading cause of disability in older adults, and those who survive a stroke often require long-term care. In an aged care home, the supervision of a stroke resident is typically a team effort involving nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and other health professionals. Each team member's specific roles and responsibilities will vary depending on the individual resident's needs. For example, nurses may provide around-the-clock care and assistance with activities of daily living, while physiotherapists may focus on helping residents regain movement and function. Regardless of their specific roles, all team members work together to ensure that residents receive the best care.
If the stroke survivor is under age 65, it’s worth contacting the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to get advice and learn more about care options for your family member. The Stroke Foundation can also help you with more information about stroke rehabilitation and care.
Parkinson's Disease is a degenerative nervous system disorder affecting movement. It is caused by the death of nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine, a chemical messenger that helps to control muscle movement.
The exact cause of cell death in Parkinson's is unknown, but it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Treatment for Parkinson's disease typically involves medication and therapy to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. There is no cure for Parkinson's disease, but early diagnosis and treatment can help slow the disease's progression.
While there is currently no cure for Parkinson's, several treatments available can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. For residents in a nursing home, this may involve a team approach involving nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and doctors.
The nursing staff will provide primary care and monitor the resident's condition daily. Physiotherapists can help to improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls, while occupational therapists can assist with activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing and eating. Finally, doctors can provide medication to help manage symptoms such as rigidity, tremors and problems with balance. By taking a multidisciplinary approach, we can ensure that nursing home residents receive the best possible care.
People with Parkinson's disease typically need more care as the disease progresses. In the early stages of Parkinson's disease, residents may only need occasional help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
As the disease progresses, residents may need more frequent assistance and may eventually require 24-hour care. The decision to provide 24-hour care for a Parkinson’s resident should be made on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the resident's doctor. In some cases, 24-hour care may be the best option for providing the level of support and supervision that a resident needs. In other cases, less intensive care arrangements may be sufficient. In all cases, the goal should be to provide the best care for the individual.
Diversional therapy is known as supporting seniors in aged care with leisure and recreational programs designed to improve and encourage wellness. These activities will support, challenge and enhance psychological, social, physical, and mental health. Examples of some common diversional therapy activities used in aged care include music therapy, art lessons, puzzles, pet visits, exercise and more.
Diversional therapy is highly beneficial for seniors struggling with ageing or a chronic illness. Engaging in recreational activities can positively influence the brain and body and support a better quality of life. These leisure activities allow seniors to make their own decisions, pick up new hobbies, and connect with their wider community. Speak to MACG’s lifestyle coordinator about the many benefits of diversional therapy.
The idea behind diversional therapy is that it will encourage your brain to focus on an activity - helping to keep your attention off any pain you may be feeling. Therefore, focusing on a physical or mental activity will keep your brain feeling sharp and will allow elderly people to test their own abilities, live their best lives, and continue their daily living as they see fit.
Untreated chronic pain for seniors can lead to various issues, including reduced functionality and a decreased quality of life. It can also harm personal relationships and spark psychological or mental challenges over time.
By finding suitable ways to manage pain, our elderly residents can regain confidence, do the things they’ve always loved, and stay active.
We utilise some standard pain management techniques at MACG to ensure our elderly residents find relief from their chronic pain issues. For example, we engage in physical rehabilitation through exercise, massage and physiotherapy, cognitive behaviour therapy, and other fun and exciting activities.
To ensure we utilise the best programs for our residents’ pain management needs, we conduct an assessment that outlines their pain or any behavioural and psychological symptoms. We will also search for any pain symptom that requires more management and develop a plan with this in mind. At MACG, we are determined to use the best practice for pain management in aged care.
Caring for someone with MND requires patience and a well-structured support system. This may include other family members, friends, doctors, nurses, and even an aged home that offers quality palliative care.
Caring for an MND resident, especially if they are elderly, may require acts such as managing fatigue, alleviating pain, special meal preparation, encouraging speech and communication, and more. At MACG, our expert staff can help make the caring process easier for your family and the resident in need.
Motor neurone disease will significantly decrease someone’s life expectancy and eventually lead to the end of life. While there is no cure for MND, there are ways to help the impact it has on a resident’s day-to-day life. With the proper care and support, we aim to help our residents find satisfaction and fulfilment when they leave. This is done through many exciting activities and emotional support when needed.
Due to its complexity and progressive nature, elderly residents diagnosed with MND will require palliative care. Palliative care is the active and holistic care of people with progressive illnesses. At MACG, our aged care homes are equipped with the equipment, tools, and trained professionals to provide residents with MND the appropriate palliative care during their diagnosis. Talk to us today for more about our palliative care methods.
The most common degenerative neurological disorder seen in the elderly is Alzheimer’s disease. This is a primary form of Dementia that causes damage to the nerve cells of the brain. The most prominent symptom of Alzheimer’s is memory loss and overall mental decline. At MACG, we assist residents suffering from Alzheimer’s with specialised care and recreational activities designed to help them build mental strength.
