Ladies group invited to Alexandra Cottage (Toorak House)
On 12 October, the ‘Ladies Group’ of Resthaven Paradise and Eastern Community Services were invited to be the first social group to test out a new respite house at 61 Alexandra Avenue, Toorak Gardens, ‘Alexandra Cottage’ (now known as Toorak House).
Funded by the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, both day and overnight respite are offered, with bookings available now.
Alexandra Cottage is just one of several respite cottages that cater for older people living in the community. Carers benefit from having some respite, with the peace of mind knowing that the person they care for is enjoying a relaxing couple of hours, or days, of social activities with other clients. Some may even need an overnight stay, with one on one support overnight.
The Resthaven Paradise and Eastern Community Services’ Ladies Group started meeting more than a year ago, fostering four special connections through their love of craft and dry senses of humour.
‘I feel like part of the furniture! We all do have a great friendship. We laugh and it’s just easy conversation,’ explains Nancy.
Margaret says, ‘Our group meets every Monday afternoon for coffee, at alternating cafes. It is great to have this option at the [Alexandra] house as it is more intimate, and we can take our shoes off!’
Margaret had a lot to say about the potential of the respite house, ‘I love it here. It is relaxing, open, and feels like home. I can see myself coming back here and I will.’
‘It will be great to have intimate, smaller groups here, like today – it suits it very well. I’d love to stay here overnight sometime – I would feel very comfortable here.’
All three ladies praised the respite house for its open, airy feel, particularly the spacious garden and the privacy factor.
Among the staff to join the group, was Project Officer, Tania, who had the job of preparing the property for service provision.
‘This was my first respite project, and so it’s almost like my baby! I feel so incredibly proud of the work that has gone into this venue, and it has so much potential. I’m certainly excited about the future of Alexandra Cottage!’
‘Thank you to the Ladies Group for making the first visit a flying success!’
To book for day or overnight respite at Alexandra Cottage, phone 8154 8444.
Resthaven assists people to stay living independently in their own homes, offering care and support options that are designed for each individual, including those with dementia. Respite is available in peoples’ homes, in small groups, overnight at Toorak Gardens, Westbourne Park, Naracoorte and in the southern vales.