Providing housing and hope for vulnerable Victorians
Maria* was 73 years old when, in a state of desperation, she applied for one of Royal Freemasons’ Independent Living units. At a time when many retirees are enjoying the fruits of their labour, Maria was still working part time to cover rent and everyday living expenses. The part pension she received simply wasn’t enough […]
Louisa finds her calling in aged care
Royal Freemasons Lifestyle Coordinator, Louisa, fell into aged care after a varied career across different industries. Now, five years into the role, she is certain she has found her calling — bringing joy every day to residents by organising meaningful activities that support their wellbeing. “I come from an Italian background and grew up in […]
Mateship matters in aged care
After spending years living independently at home, moving into permanent aged care can be a daunting transition, which for most residents takes time. For some, forming new friendships can be a challenge, particularly for men who are often in the minority in aged care environments. To help meet this need, the men’s group at our […]
Brother-sister duo has residents up and dancing
You might not expect an aged care home to be pumping with music, but on a Thursday afternoon at Royal Freemasons Springtime in Sydenham, there’s a party in full swing. Nostalgic hits from the 70s and 80s are brought to life by 2 of a Kind, a brother-sister duo made up of Peter and Chris, […]
A chance to say “Thanks for caring”
Royal Freemasons was proud to celebrate Ageing Australia’s Aged Care Employee Day on 7 August to recognise and thank the many unsung heroes in our Residential Aged Care, In-home Support, Independent Living, and Support Services team. Most of all, the day was a perfect opportunity for our residents, clients and their families, to extend their […]
Giving dignity and comfort to residents in need
With the wellbeing and happiness of vulnerable older Victorians at the heart of Royal Freemasons’ mission, we were delighted to launch the Clothed with Compassion Appeal in late May, raising funds to provide new clothing for those in our care facing hardship and social isolation. In our residential aged care homes, this need is especially […]
Bringing generations together
Twice a month, residents from our Mount Martha Valley home in Safety Beach visit Green Leaves Early Learning Centre in Rosebud for fun and games with the children. These visits are a highlight for everyone involved, giving both generations the chance to connect and enjoy each other’s company. Together the residents and children happily while […]
Pursuing a person-centred approach
Mount Martha Valley resident, Rose, is excited to be part of Royal Freemasons’ Consumer Advisory Body (CAB), a committee that provides a source of meaningful engagement with our consumers and their representatives. She is one of the 11 members that make up the CAB, which includes other residents from our homes, In-home Support clients, representatives […]
Just like family
After 25 years working for Royal Freemasons’ In-home Support services, Personal Care Attendant Judy Thuraisingham still finishes every shift feeling fulfilled by the care and connection she gives to her clients. “I love my job. I love meeting new people and caring for them. I love the different stories they tell about their lives. It’s […]
Sixty-seven years of love and devotion
When Presilia and Albert Bussac were choosing an aged care home, the one thing that mattered most was that they remain together. “They say we are joined at the hip because we are always holding hands,” says Albert. Originally from South Africa, the two of them met in the 1950s when they were just teenagers […]
