“It is entirely possible that behind the perception of our senses, worlds are hidden of which we are unaware” ~ Albert Einstein

Perception (as defined in the Cambridge dictionary) is “a belief or opinion, often held by many people and based on how things seem”. A shift in perception can ultimately influence an outcome and could be the difference between a positive or negative experience.

For many of our senior population, the perception of “aged care” is drawn from memories of preceding generations’ experience of a nursing home – a place the elderly go, to merely wait out their remaining days. Often this perception can influence the decision to move in to (or resist) an aged care residence. However, aged care has come a long way and at The Richardson, we encourage and support our residents to continue to live their best life.

Socialise

As humans, we are inherently social, with the benefits of socialising well researched by psychologists and sociologists for decades. Social interaction is essential to our survival, health & well-being. Therefore maintaining social interaction is vital as we age.

With less social opportunities for older citizens in the greater community, co-existing with other like-minded people in residential care provides residents with daily conversation and interaction. The extensive lifestyle activities on offer at The Richardson guarantees our residents enjoy many social activities and conversation opportunities daily.

Some of the best ways for you to engage in social interaction could be:

• Volunteer in your local community

• Join a social sports team

• Join a wine club

• Take your dog to a dog park and meet other pup parents

• Join in a team for a weekly trivia night at a local bar

Healthy Food

Maintaining a balanced, healthy diet is essential for everyone and as we age, ensuring the right nutrition can have a significant impact on our health. Residents at The Richardson receive a varied menu of healthy meals, designed in consultation with a dietitian and cooked on-site by our very own, in-house executive Chef, Javier.

Try your hand at Chef Javier’s very own Chicken Kiev with Basque pepper ragout, which features on the menu here at The Richardson.

Independence

To be Independent, as individuals, is important for us all, and having independence is no less relevant or valuable as we age.

At The Richardson, residents are encouraged and supported to live their very best life, in whichever way they choose. Encouraging residents to engage in daily activities and tasks they would otherwise enjoy at home, nurtures independence and preserves dignity.

As an ‘ageing in place’ residential aged care provider, The Richardson provides all levels of support to residents; from minimum assistance to a high level of care & support and palliative care. With registered nurses and qualified carers on site 24/7 to provide support, a resident at The Richardson can age, in place, without having to move.

For a range of products to assist with independence, check out Daily Living Products stores across Perth

Exercise

Aside from looking and feeling good, keeping physically and mentally active is critical for general health and well-being for our older loved ones.

Together with a heated pool and gymnasium, daily exercise classes are on offer at The Richardson to ensure our residents strength and mobility is maintained. Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists are on-site to provide additional therapeutic support to residents, as well as GP’s, podiatrists, speech therapists and dieticians are all available to complete a full care team.

Have a look here to find a suitable exercise class for over 55’s in Perth.

The perception of residential aged care is indeed changing. Not only do we now have beautiful residences, like The Richardson, for our ageing citizens to move to, but also, people are seeing the benefits and thus deciding to make the move earlier rather than later. Making the choice to live their best life, the way they choose.

If you require support or wish to speak to someone about your situation or that of a loved one, please don’t hesitate to contact us on (08) 9381 2800.