The first aged care respite centre in the Capes region has officially opened its doors, providing much-needed short-term respite to caregivers.
The Ray Lodge Community Respite Centre boasts views of Geographe Bay and five rooms for overnight stays.
The centre focuses on providing a home-like environment and will also be used by consumers who previously attended Ray Village’s Strelley Adult Day Centre.
Capecare chief executive officer Stephen Carmody said the Busselton centre filled a large void and would make a significant difference in the lives of people who cared for their loved ones within their homes.
“Caregiving can be so rewarding and can enable your friend or family member to continue to enjoy the life and community they know and love - however it can also be emotionally and physically tiring,” he said.
“Ray Lodge is a vital part of supporting local people to remain within their community as they grow older by giving much needed breaks to caregivers whether it be for a day, overnight or for a few weeks.
“Carers can also have the reassurance they need that if anything happened to them we are able to cater for their family member at short notice – likewise if they have a break or a regular work or other commitment.”
Mr Carmody said the demand for respite services in the South West was likely to significantly increase over coming years with the ageing of the population and the increasing number of people choosing to care for a loved one at home.
“We are really only just starting to see the impact of the age wave – especially as people in the so called ‘baby boomer’ generation reach an age where their health and support needs begin to escalate,” he said.
“Carers are some of the unsung heroes in our community because, while we know they are driven by love, the sacrifices they make in providing 24/7 care can be very significant.
“It’s important to note that carers also alleviate what would otherwise be a major burden on taxpayers because they provide care at a significantly lower cost than if their family members needed to be accommodated in an aged care facility.”
Forrest MP Nola Marino helped officially open the centre on November 13.
She described it is a win for the whole region and the facility as a haven for carers.
“As there is currently nothing like this in the region, the demand for respite services is already not being met and we know that, with our rapidly ageing population, this demand is only going to increase,” she said.
“This facility gives carers peace of mind, comfort and almost something to look forward to as a regular opportunity to just simply chill out, and regain their sense of self in what is a really challenging world when you are a full-time carer.”
For information on accessing respite services, visit capecare.com.au.
