SIXTEEN new beds and a new dementia care wing will be part of Ascott Gardens’ $7 million expansion and refurbishment.
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The expansion was announced at the 10th birthday celebrations for the United Protestant Association of NSW (UPA) run facility on Thursday.
UPA regional manager Janelle Waters said as the centre neared its 10th year of operation, staff saw the need to be increase bed numbers to cater for the ageing population.
"We are increasing the facility's size from 62 to 78 beds. We're also building a new dementia wing, which will consist of two 14-bed cottages, and establishing a day centre that will house a coffee shop, pain therapy unit, music room, movie room and a place for activities,” Ms Waters said.
“This all came about because we were allocated 16 new places in the aged care approval round last year. We’re replacing our old 24-bed dementia care wing with 28 beds, and refurbishing one of our other wings for 12 rooms to care for people who are frail and old.”
To make space for the expansion, 85 and 87 Spring Street blocks, adjacent to Ascott Gardens, have been purchased.
Ms Waters said building is expected to take place from November, while existing facilities will also receive a facelift, including new furniture and curtains.
A dementia-specific garden will also be created, featuring a chicken pen, men’s shed and art studio.
“The garden will entail specific areas with tactile spaces. We will have a Hills Hoist, for example, so they can fold the washing, everyday tasks they used to do at home," Ms Waters said.
“It’s to enable residents to continue pursuing their hobbies. It creates a calmness in them, there's enough stimuli, but not too much. The main thing is residents will feel at home."
When the expansion is completed, estimated to be late next year, an extra 20 staff on top of the current 110 will be employed at Ascott Gardens.
alexandra.king@fairfaxmedia.com.au
