FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Uniting Church in Australia is again at the forefront of responding innovatively to the rapidly changing needs of older Australians.  The unprecedented growth in Australia's older population and their strong preference to age well within their community requires new models of care in facilities designed to meet future needs.

Uniting Aged Care Victoria and Tasmania (UACVT) today celebrated the commencement of construction of facilities which will increase choices available for older people in the western suburbs.   The design gives priority to meeting older people's choice to remain living independently for as long as possible. The range of services available within the development will enable people to maintain their quality of life.

Whether receiving rehabilitation services in the facilities designed for people remaining in their own homes, living in one of the 49 modern apartments or receiving a high level of care in the 68 bed aged care residential facility, the emphasis is on supporting older people’s control over their own lives and maintaining their participation in the community.

This $36million development in Kingsville in based on extensive research in relation to the preferences of older people and international trends.  UACVT believes these modern facilities will provide a new model of aged care provision which has given priority to responding to older people’s ability to choose how they live.

ADCO Constructions will immediately commence construction on site and it is anticipated the first residents will be enjoying the freedom of modern, quality facilities within a supportive community within approximately 20 months.

Throughout the construction, UACVT will continue to work with the Kingsville community to ensure the services provided meet the culturally diverse needs of local older people.

The 49 apartments are designed to enable older people to remain at home and to have choices in their lives.  UACVT expects there will be significant interest in older people who wish to actively age and continue their participation in their local community.

Members of the community wishing to be part of this exciting option for their later years should contact Gae Hewitt on 9251 5487.

For media enquiries contact Robyn Batten, Executive Director, UACVT on 9251 5970.