There are 6 levels of accommodation currently provided within Olivet’s care umbrella and the type and amount of care delivered is dependent on a person’s ability to maintain independence. The retirement village area named Cedar village was opened in October 2002 and comprises 15 spacious homes where residents purchase a licence to occupy from Olivet on a commercial basis. These units are offered only to those within the brotherhood and contain 2 or 3 bedrooms, all with their own garage and pleasant garden areas There are also 32 independent living units rented exclusively to Brethren and Sisters consisting of 1 or 2 bedrooms. These are comfortable self-contained areas designed for residents who are able to care for themselves independently in a domestic environment, and at the same time appreciate the company of others without the responsibility of maintaining the building or a large garden. Low level or Hostel Care is provided in 47 single rooms in a homelike fraternal living environment. The hostel wings are surrounded by gardens and outdoor living areas which are easily accessible. Each room has its own ensuite with common rooms provided for leisure and companionship. Each wing provides a different level of care where personal care staff are available 24 hrs per day. Special support for residents with Dementia is offered in the Toorak wing where 13 single rooms provide a homelike and safe area surrounded by attractive landscaped gardens. The most important aspect of the design and operation of this specialised unit is in its ability to focus on the individual’s dignity and independence. Professional care is provided by trained staff 24 hrs per day. Respite accommodation offers short term care so that care givers can be provided an opportunity to get away for a short break with the assurance that their loved ones are being well cared for and supervised. This care is available for both high and low level care with a total of 10 beds available at Olivet each in single rooms, most having their own ensuite or are near to shared bathroom facilities High care or Nursing Home accommodation is provided for those needing the highest level of expert nursing care and service. 23 rooms comprising both single and 2 bedrooms are provided in a supportive and safe environment. In addition to the nursing care provided to Nursing Home and Hostel residents, a varied activity program offers stimulation and relaxation. Some include floor games and exercises, crossword, scrabble, relaxation sessions, sing-a-longs, music melodies, sensory sessions, reminiscence, carpet bowls, cards and poetry reading. There are activities planned for morning and afternoon sessions and residents join in when they wish. The Paramedical department is headed by a Diversional Therapist and is assisted by 3 activity workers. The activities are generously supplemented by volunteers some of whom also assist in many of the planned activities. These volunteers are vital to our program and currently there are 99 Brethren and Sisters who willingly in total give 102 hours of extra assistance to our residents and staff every week. Some activities which involve volunteers are the trolley shop, pastoral care visits, hairdressing, driving Olivet’s bus, serving afternoon teas, assisting residents with meals, flower arranging and clearing meal tables. All volunteer help greatly assists staff in their daily work and well as benefiting the quality of life for our residents. We are very blessed to have the support of so many however there is always the need for more. If you want to be a part of the volunteer program, simply ring Olivet and ask to speak with the volunteer coordinator who will then discuss with you your varied interests and how best these may assist Olivet The auxiliary are another dedicated group of volunteers who plan and run fund raising events for Olivet, the main ones being the Spring Fair, Candlelight dinners and the Opportunity shop. Funds raised assist to provide extra items of comfort for our residents. |