This article was published in The West Australian by Sandra Argese on 19 August 2019: Place for young and old.

Multiplex has commenced construction on Oryx Communities’ multi-generational seniors’ precinct, The Queenslea in Claremont.

The upcoming residential aged care facility is located within Landcorp’s Claremont on the Park redevelopment.

It will take shape on Lot 506 on the corner of Graylands Road and Shenton Road in Claremont, and will provide care for up to 120 residents.

The Queenslea will also provide respite care to meet temporary accommodation needs, as well as a memory support day centre offering daytime dementia care and support.

Awarded Platinum Design Certification by Liveable Housing Australia (LHA), two and three-bedroom serviced apartments will provide the option for seniors to live in a home environment.

The first of their kind in Western Australia, the apartments have been designed to ensure normality, dignity and quality of life are prioritised, with residents not needing to move again even if their care needs change.

An onsite inter-generational childcare facility for more than 100 children, who will have the opportunity to interact, engage and learn from the senior residents, will also be available.

“It has been demonstrated children learn and benefit from mixing with older people with a different perspective on life,” Oryx Communities CEO Michelle De Ronchi said.

“The planned mix of generations will create a diverse environment and better lifestyle for all residents.

“Older residents will benefit from socialising beyond their existing friendship circle and increase their self-esteem and emotional wellbeing by sharing their stories, experiences and care with younger people.”

Seniors and Ageing Minister Mick Murray said multi-generational living facilities provided older Western Australians with an ongoing connection to the community and valuable opportunities to share their wisdom and experiences with younger people.

“It is quite incredible to see older people’s spirits lift when they interact and engage with young kids in casual settings like these,” Mr Murray said.

Lands Minister Ben Wyatt said this was an important project given Australia’s ageing population.

“It is also a boost for the state that projects like this can create 200 jobs during construction and then a further 150 ongoing operational jobs,” he said.

The development is within walking distance of the Claremont town centre, Claremont train station and community amenities.

The Queenslea is due for completion in 2021.

Contact: 9381 2800 or online via oryxcommunities.com/the-queenslea.