I became, in my own mind, part of this family. And they've looked after me with all my needs and it's made me very happy.
– Geoffrey
Dementia is a degenerative brain disorder that can impact a person's memory, mood and behaviour. Symptoms usually develop slowly and worsen over time. Dementia can be incredibly isolating, not just for the person experiencing it but also for their loved ones. That's why our aged care homes in Melbourne offer specialised dementia care.
Our team of trained professionals provide around-the-clock support and assistance with daily living activities. We also create personalised care plans designed to improve quality of life. In addition, our homes are secure environments that help to minimise confusion and anxiety. If you're looking for dementia aged care in Melbourne, we invite you to tour one of our homes and see how we can help.
We’re happy to answer any questions you have.
At our aged care homes in Melbourne, we understand that providing support for a person living with dementia can be a challenge. That's why we have a dedicated team of staff trained in dementia care. We create individualised care plans for each resident, considering their unique needs and preferences.
We aim to promote independence and well-being while providing the necessary support and assistance. MACG also offers specialised sensory activities for dementia residents designed to engage and stimulate residents. These sensory activities provide a wonderful space for family and friends to participate in the care process. Our goal is to provide our residents with the best possible quality of life and ensure they feel safe, comfortable and supported.
Comfortable homes with individual care
Prioritising community and family connection
Leading with honesty and communication
Educating our care teams for quality care
Here is your guide to understanding aged care home fees.
In every aged care home, a basic daily fee is paid on top of your accommodation cost. This fee covers your basic living needs, including meals, laundry and cleaning, and utility costs like power and telecommunications.
The Australian Government sets a maximum basic daily fee that aged care homes can charge, currently set at $63.57 a day or $23,203.05 per year.
Services Australia sets this fee at 85% of a single Age Pension. The basic daily fee is the same for everyone (even if they don’t receive an Age Pension) and is increased twice a year, March 20th and September 20th, to match the rising cost of living.
Once you submit an Income and Asset Assessment through Centrelink, you will not only be assessed on whether you are eligible for any subsidies but you’ll also be assessed on whether the means-tested care fee is applicable.
If you have to pay the income-tested care fee, it means the government has determined you need to pay extra towards your day-to-day care, but only if you can afford it. Whether this fee applies to you is dependent on your financial situation and if you have a higher level of assets or income. The means-tested care fee will be between $0 and $259.26 per day.
It can take the government some time to calculate the amount you may need to pay for the means-tested care fee. Therefore, you and the aged care home you choose will be notified by letter when the price has been calculated, and payment will be backdated to the date you entered into care.
All aged care providers can charge fees for your accommodation to cover the home's maintenance costs and amenities. Each nursing home sets this daily accommodation price, and it is advertised clearly in the accommodation cost. At MACG, our daily accommodation rate ranges between $45.92 and $183.67.
Many factors influence aged care accommodation costs, including the room size and type, facilities available and property prices. The Income and Asset Assessment will determine whether the Australian Government will subsidise this fee or fully pay for your accommodation costs based on your income earnings and assets.
Many aged care homes in Melbourne offer additional services, similar to a hotel experience. Some common additional services include beauty and hairdressing, satellite television, internet, gyms, pools, workshops and alcohol.
Some aged care homes may allow you to pick and choose the services you want, so you only pay for what you use, whereas others may have an additional package.
These service fees are set by the aged care provider and aren’t subsidised by the government. Therefore, it’s best to consider these as out-of-pocket costs you will need to cover.
Many aged care homes provide extra services that allow residents to upgrade their stay. Things that may be part of an extra service package include extended menus and drink options, higher quality linens and room furnishings.
Extra services usually come in a bundle and can either apply to specific room types or an entire retirement village. These extra services are not government subsidised.
The government provides a few aged care subsidy programs to assist residents who struggle to afford aged care support. The main program you can apply for is Financial Hardship Assistance. If you are eligible, the Australian Government will assist in paying some or all of your aged care fees (this includes respite care). Find out if you are eligible for Financial Hardship Assistance.
Dementia is a broad term used to describe a decline in cognitive function. This can include memory loss, difficulty communicating, and changes in mood or behaviour. Dementia can be a devastating diagnosis for the individual and their family, but it is essential to remember that there is support available.
People with dementia can continue to live meaningful lives with appropriate support. That's why dementia care in aged care is so critical. By providing specialised care and services, our aged care homes help people with dementia to maintain their independence and enjoy a great quality of life.
In addition, our qualified staff are trained to provide support and assistance with daily activities for people living with dementia and emotional support for families. With the proper care, people with dementia can enjoy many happy years in their later life.
The cost of dementia care in Australia can vary depending on the home type and the required level of care. We work closely with family members to ensure their residents receive the specialised dementia care they need. Please contact our aged care assessment team to discuss the specific costs associated with dementia support in our homes.
At MACG, we understand that home is where the heart is. So, we work hard to ensure our residents are comfortable and happy living in our community.
People living with dementia require regular mental stimulation and social engagement, which is why we encourage residents to engage in our community and keep active through a range of lifestyle activities.
Keeping our residents connected to their community is important to us. We provide opportunities for residents to create new friends and connections.
The Income and Asset Assessment is a means test set by the Australian Government to decide if you are eligible for a Commonwealth subsidy for part or all of your aged care home fees.
In this means test, your income and assets are evaluated. What is considered ‘income’ includes but is not limited to financial investments, age, disability or service pensions, income support payments, bonds, shares, your superannuation, family trusts and super funds.
Assets include properties you own (including your own home), investment properties, private or partnered businesses, and more. You will be asked a range of questions regarding your income and assets to determine your eligibility for subsidies.
You can complete the Income and Assets Assessment online through My Aged Care.
The assessment is broken down into three steps and is fairly quick to complete. The same form is used for all support types, whether you’re looking for short or long-term care or support in the home.
To complete the assessment, you will need your Medicare card. You can also organise for a representative to complete the application on your behalf.
The online assessment should not take longer than 20 minutes of your time. However, after submitting the assessment, you will receive a call to arrange a complete evaluation and review of your application.
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There are three different ways you can pay your aged care fees:
MACG’s preferred method of payment is via direct debit. Therefore, a direct debit form will be provided to you during the pre-admissions meeting.
Monthly statements are issued to permanent residents (or their representatives) at the beginning of the month and detail the debit amount. This direct debit is processed on the 15th of every month (bar public holidays or weekends in which the payment will be taken the following business day).
If you have any questions about the admissions process, cost of care, or would like to book a tour, please contact our Admissions Team.
Boronia
Our residents enjoy a warm, homelike atmosphere at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges.
Carrum Downs
Our residents live happy and fulfilled lives, and we help each person to achieve their best lifestyle.
Narre Warren
Read a good book in front of the warm fireplaces or explore the peaceful, landscaped gardens.
Narre Warren South
Our residents enjoy the beautiful gardens and a range of on-site facilities, including the chicken coop.
Ashwood
In the leafy suburb of Ashwood you will find Grand Cedar Aged Care. See for yourself what makes it special.
Coburg
Residents here appreciate the homelike atmosphere and enjoy the sun in the beautiful outdoor spaces.
Hughesdale
A warm and welcoming environment featuring old-world charm along with modern facilities.
Parkdale
This coastal home features views of Port Philip Bay and courtyards for our residents to enjoy.
Traralgon
Residents cherish the intimate relationships they have with the care team and the wider community.
Dementia-specific care is a type of care that is specifically designed to meet the needs of people living with dementia. This kind of care can include formal and informal support and is often tailored to the individual's needs and preferences.
Formal dementia-specific care may be provided by a team of health professionals, including doctors, nurses, and therapists. This team will work together to create a care plan that meets the person's unique needs.
On the other hand, informal dementia-specific care can be provided by family members, friends, or volunteers. This kind of care often focuses on providing social and emotional support and helping with daily living activities. Whatever form it takes, dementia-specific care can help people living with dementia to experience a better quality of life.
Dementia is a progressive brain disorder that can lead to difficulty with memory, thinking, and decision-making. While there is no one answer to where a person with dementia should live, there are a few important factors to consider.
First, choosing a living situation that can provide the necessary care, safety, and support is crucial. For some people, this may mean staying in their own homes with the help of a caregiver. Others may need to move into an assisted living facility or nursing home.
It is also important to consider the person's social and emotional needs. For example, a person with dementia may benefit from being around others who can provide companionship and support. Ultimately, the decision of where to live should be made based on the individual's needs and personal preferences.
Dementia and Alzheimer's disease are both neurological conditions that can lead to memory loss, behavioural changes, and communication and mobility difficulties. However, there are some critical differences between the two conditions.
Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of all cases. It typically affects older adults over 65, and the risk of developing the condition increases with age. In contrast, dementia can affect people of any age, although it is most common in adults over 60. Alzheimer's disease is also progressive, meaning that it worsens over time. In contrast, dementia may be static, meaning symptoms remain stable for an extended period.
Finally, Alzheimer's disease is caused by the buildup of abnormal proteins in the brain, while the exact cause of dementia is often unknown. Although they share some common features, dementia and Alzheimer's disease are two different conditions.
If you find you’re unable to afford residential aged care costs, there are a number of avenues you can explore for assistance. If your Income and Asset Assessment determines you can’t afford aged care services, the Australian Government can provide subsidies for aged care support.
You may be eligible for Financial Hardship Assistance to partially or fully cover the basic daily fee, means-tested care fee and accommodation costs. Each case is assessed individually and depends on the type of care you need.
You can also consult with a Financial Information Services (FIS) representative. The FIS is an entirely free Australian Government program that helps you make informed decisions about your finances.
If you require assistance or more information, please contact any of the departments below.
You may also wish to gain specialist advice from an Aged Care Financial Planner to restructure your finances to your best advantage when entering care.
See your local MACG home and get a feel for the community.
