New Vic aged care development

Victorian not for profit aged and disability services provider, Villa Maria, launched its newest development over the weekend.

The state of the art redeveloped facility, Villa Maria Wantirna, opened its doors, giving the public an opportunity to tour the modern 96 bed aged care residence.

The facility, set to welcome its first residents later this month, will offer support services to hundreds of older people, those with disabilities, their families and carers across the eastern Melbourne region.

Pictured is the Villa Maria Wantirna lounge room.

The $30 million project will blend aged care with community services and independent living accommodation.

Wantirna Centre manager, Kathleen Collings, says the facility will have a strong person centred focus to support people with complex dementia needs and their families.

Visitors at last Saturday’s facility tour explored the new purposebuilt Gateway Service, offering adults with disabilities dedicated artistic spaces, a modern kitchen for cooking programs, an onsite gymnasium and an outdoor sensory garden.

The redeveloped Wellbeing Centre – providing Allied Health services and rehabilitative group programs for older people – also opened its doors, offering free tai chi sessions and balance assessments with qualified therapists.