Built with a $16 million federal government grant, Mission Australia’s Annie Green Court welcomed its first resident on December 10. Ultimately, there will be 72 people who will call Annie Green Court home.
The facility, which is located on the corner of Redfern and Elizabeth streets, consists of six pods, each having 12 bedrooms (with en-suites), two lounge rooms and a dining room. Annie Green Court also has a main activities room overlooking Redfern Park and a rooftop garden with plans for a barbecue area. Residents are free to come and go as they please.
Annie Green Court is the second such low-care aged care facility to be operated by Mission Australia. The multiple award-winning Charles Chambers Court in Surry Hills has been providing high-quality care for disadvantaged elderly people since 1998.
A model of care has been developed to provide support of various forms to residents who may be socially isolated, have aged early, and/or have complex behavioural issues.
For example, Jill Bicknell, Operations Manager of Residential Aged Care at Mission Australia, says: “Whereas the social programs at other aged care facilities may encourage reminiscing, this approach is not suitable for people who may have painful pasts.”
Particular features of the social program at Charles Chambers Court have instead included “CCC Idol” (inspired by Australian Idol), and the “Trip Around the World” program which showcases the diverse cultural heritage of residents. The latter program, which was awarded the Better Practice Award for Resident Lifestyle from the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency, “visits” each of the countries from which the residents hail, through themed meals, talks and decorations. “Trip Around the World generates conversation and builds understanding. Many residents also feel proud when their country is celebrated,” Ms Bicknell says.
Charles Chambers and Annie Green Courts have a corporate volunteers program, and also welcome individual volunteers. Particular needs for Annie Green Court include volunteers to assist with arts and music activities.
