Estia Health has seniors grinning like a Cheshire cat, with the aged care provider revealing its new home opening at Twin Waters next month is one of only a handful of aged care homes across South East Queensland that will welcome four-legged friends.
Client Relations Manager at Estia Health, Jennie Hodge, said one of the challenges seniors often faced when moving into aged care was waving goodbye to beloved pets, so pet-friendly residences were in strong demand.
“While retirement villages with independent residences have traditionally had more freedom to accept pets, it’s rare to find an aged care home where residents can seek approval to have their pets accompany them in their assigned rooms,” Ms Hodge said.
“We’re big believers in the benefits associated with pet ownership and interaction, and consider furry companions to be beneficial to the overall health and wellbeing of our residents.”
Ms Hodge said numerous studies had indicated animals offered a range of psychological, social and physical benefits for seniors.
“Animals have been shown to improve emotional and cognitive functioning, negate feelings of loneliness, significantly lower blood pressure, lessen cholesterol levels and even reduce the risk of hypertension.”
“Research also suggests dog ownership in particular encourages individuals to participate in physical activity, with walking commonly undertaken as a leisure activity.”
Ms Hodge said she had witnessed the benefits animals could bring first-hand at many of Estia Health’s 68 homes across Australia where communally owned or resident pets do a great job of entertaining and engaging with residents.
“Pets give the residents a sense of purpose and offer wonderful companionship. Most of us have enjoyed pets throughout our lives so why shouldn’t you still enjoy all the joy pets bring when you come to our home?”
“Our Twin Waters home is currently accepting applications for residents who may wish to bring their own pets. While there are, of course, restrictions on the number and type of pets which can be accepted, we’re looking forward to welcoming a few four-legged residents when we open our doors in September.”
Ms Hodge said her own dog Astro had already become a hit when he accompanied her on tours through the new home.
“Astro loves being by my side and no matter which Estia home I visit, he has a tendency to draw a crowd, bringing much joy to our residents,” Ms Hodge said.
“He will be a familiar face at our new Twin Waters home as we start welcoming our residents. The home is looking fantastic and we are looking forward to opening the doors to the public on Saturday, 26 August at our Open Day from 10am-3pm.”
The Open Day will offer tours through the new home, the opportunity to get advice on the journey into aged care, free coffees and snacks and entertainment for the kids.
Estia Health Twin Waters is located at 190 Ocean Drive, Twin Waters. To find out more about Estia Health’s residential and respite aged care offerings, please visit www.estiahealth.com.au or call 1800 471 135.
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Media contact Maya Gurry, Fresh PR & Marketing 0410 109 102 maya@freshprm.com.au
Source: Cherniack EP, Cherniack AR. The Benefit of Pets and Animal-Assisted Therapy to the Health of Older Individuals. Current Gerontology and Geriatrics Research. 2014.
Fast facts
– 114 light-filled and spacious rooms with private ensuites.
– Delicious and nutritious meals, freshly prepared by onsite, qualified chefs.
– Modern on-site café and hairdressing salon.
– Well-stocked library and computer hub with internet access.
– Visiting medical professionals and allied health services onsite.
– Private dining rooms available for small gatherings.
– Registered nurses onsite 24 hours a day.
About Estia Health
Estia Health is one of the largest residential aged care providers in Australia, with its Twin Waters home one of 68 homes that sit under the Estia Health brand across Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland. The Twin Waters venue is uniquely co-located with a Living Choice retirement village.
