Aged Care Victoria

Personal stories and experiences from our residents

At Hope Aged Care, every resident’s story is a testament to the care and vibrant community that defines our centres. From Swan Hill to Sunshine, our residents share their experiences, painting a picture of life filled with support, companionship, and quality services.

Aged Care Victoria

Meals that delight

Transitioning to life in an aged care home brings many changes, including adjustments in daily routines and meal times. Recognising the importance of mealtime as a source of both nutrition and enjoyment, Hope Aged Care strives to make every dining experience special.

Branko Kuzmanovic who resides at Hope Aged Care Sunshine appreciates this effort.

“The chef’s dedication to using seasonal produce and fresh ingredients shines through in every meal.”

Dr Afif Hadj
Branko Kuzmanovic
resident at Hope Aged Care Sunshine

This approach ensures that every resident, regardless of their dietary preferences or background, finds comfort and satisfaction in the meals provided.

And yet, our chefs acknowledge that they can’t always cook to everyone’s taste. If Salvatore Valenti, a resident from Gladstone Park, finds something not to his liking, he goes directly to the kitchen staff and asks for something else. Melville Adams, another resident from Gladstone Park and originally from India, sometimes uses extra spices to get around these obstacles.

This flexibility and openness in our kitchen underscore our commitment to making sure that every resident not only receives nutritious meals but also enjoys a dining experience that feels personalised and satisfying.

“The delightful assortment of baked goods served during morning tea and afternoon tea adds an extra layer of indulgence and sweetness to the overall dining experience.”

Dr Afif Hadj
Branko Kuzmanovic
resident at Hope Aged Care Sunshine
Aged care Victoria - Chef in Swan Hill

Aged care facilities

Spotless spaces

The cleanliness of our facilities is a cornerstone of the comfort we provide. Fred Fry from Swan Hill appreciates this aspect.

“The cleaning of the facility is up to standards.”

Dr Afif Hadj
Fred Fry
resident at Hope Aged Care Swan Hill

It’s our commitment to maintaining a pristine environment that makes Hope Aged Care feel like home. Gladstone Park resident Salvatore agrees.

“Even though it’s an old building here in Gladstone Park, and not very luxurious, this place is very homely and comfortable to live in. I’m very happy that I made the decision to live here.”

Dr Afif Hadj
Salvatore Valentini
resident at Hope Aged Care Gladstone Park

Aged Care Melbourne

Friendly, supportive staff

The compassion and dedication of our staff are frequently highlighted by our residents, creating a foundation of care that makes Hope Aged Care truly feel like home. Jeanette from Sunshine finds a special connection with the team.

“I cannot express enough how happy and satisfied I am with the exceptional care and support provided. From the moment I arrived, I have experienced a level of care that goes above and beyond my expectations. The staff members have made me feel welcome, valued,
and truly cared for.”

Dr Afif Hadj
Jeanette Johnson
resident at Hope Aged Care Sunshine

Melville from Gladstone Park echoes this sentiment, sharing staff is friendly, very helpful and attentive, and so does Avijit Rudra from Hope Aged Care Sunshine.

“The staff is always available to assist me with any concerns, whether it’s medical needs,
assistance with daily activities, or simply providing a listening ear. This continuous care has greatly improved my quality of life and allowed me to maintain my independence while having the support I need.”

Dr Afif Hadj
Avijit Rudra
resident at Hope Aged Care Sunshine

More than aged care

Beyond care

Our centres offer more than just care; they offer a lifestyle. Avijit Rudra from Sunshine finds great value in the outings organised by the Lifestyle Team.

“These outings provide an opportunity for me to socialise, engage in stimulating activities, and explore the community.”

Dr Afif Hadj
Avijit Rudra
resident at Hope Aged Care Sunshine

It’s about maintaining independence while being part of a supportive community. Graham, a resident in our Swan Hill aged care facility, agrees:

“I do front reception on weekends to keep busy and I have been really enjoying it.”

Dr Afif Hadj
Graham Gaylard
resident at Hope Aged Care Swan Hill

To find more details on all our aged care locations across Victoria, just pop over to the “Locations” tab on our website. You’ll find everything you need to know about what makes each place special.

Entry into Hope Aged Care Homes

There are two types of fees payable in the aged care

1: Daily Care Fee
2: Accommodation Payment

1: Daily Care fee: The daily fee consists of:

  • Basic Daily Care Fee: Every person in residential aged care is required to pay a Basic Daily Fee, which covers all levels of care and assistance. The basic daily fee is approximately 85% of the single person rate of the basic age pension. The government sets the price on 20 March and 20 September each year, changing in line with increases to the aged pension.

    Prices are published on the Department of Health website.

     

  • Means Tested Care Fee: The government requires those who can afford to contribute more towards their care to do so. As such, the Department of Human Services will determine if a resident is required to pay a Means Tested Care Fee in addition to Basic Daily Fee. This amount is based on an assessment of the new resident’s income and assets. Potential residents will be notified if a Means Tested Care Fee is payable when they receive their Centrelink Assessment letter. There are yearly and lifetime Maximum Means Tested Care Fees. The Maximum Means Tested Care Fee you can be asked to pay is $31,706.83 each year or $76,096.50 in your lifetime. These caps are indexed and change each time there is an increase in the aged pension. We recommend you seek independent financial advice.

2: Accommodation Payment:

The total Accommodation Payment amount will vary depending on the accommodation type chosen by the resident. The payment method is also determined by the resident, who can choose between paying a RAD (Refundable Accommodation Deposit), a DAP (Daily Accommodation Payment) or a combination of both.

  • Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD): A Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) is a one-off lump sum payment made to the aged care provider. It varies according to the room chosen by the resident. The RAD is fully refundable on departure. Upon payment of the RAD the resident must be left a minimum of $57,000 in cash / assets. If the RAD is paid in full within 7 days of admission no interest will be charged. The deposit is fully refunded when you leave the aged care residence, less any amounts you have agreed to have deducted. Those residents transferring to another aged care residence or returning home will have their RAD refunded within 14 days from discharge. In the case of a deceased resident, the RAD will be refunded within 14 days of receipt of a certified copy of the Grant of Probate.

  • Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP) A Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP) is a rental-type payment. Instead of paying for your accommodation in full (as a RAD) an ongoing daily payment can be selected. The DAP is calculated by multiplying the agreed RAD amount by the government legislated interest rate (currently 7.9% per annum)

  • COMBINATION PAYMENT (RAD + DAP) You can opt to pay part of the accommodation payment as a lump sum RAD and then the balance via DAP payments. DAP payments will be calculated based on the outstanding RAD amount. If you choose a combination of RAD and DAP and you elect to have the DAP taken from the RAD, your DAP payment will increase over time as the RAD amount is reduced.

There are more payment options like RAC and DAC for partially supported residents.

Please reach out to one of our financial department staff for more clarification on [email protected]