The Ryman Care Guide
Cover photo | Linda and Sami
Dora, Ryman resident, with Gurpreet
Linda, Ryman resident, with Sami
Welcome
Taking the first steps towards choosing the right care centre is an important decision. At Ryman villages, along with independent and assisted living, we offer a range of care options. These include rest home, respite and in most cases hospital and specialist-dementia care.
When people visit our care centres, they often tell us that they feel the difference. There’s something in the way residents and our care teams interact, their genuine affinity with one another.
There’s no better feeling than knowing you’re surrounded by a community that cares, and it’s that feeling of connection which is a huge point of difference for Ryman residents.
The exceptional care our teams provide is enhanced through innovations such as our myRyman Care app. This technology enables nurses and carers to access clinical data and record daily care tasks for you at the bedside.
Our approach to dementia care has also been enhanced by researching and developing our own unique model of dementia care, myRyman Life. The model aims to challenge perspectives on dementia, supporting people to live in the moment, and to feel kindness, love and security.
Our co-founder Kevin Hickman wanted to build a company committed to excellence. In his words, “everything we do must be good enough for Mum and Dad.” Anyone who visits our care centres can see that philosophy is our cornerstone.
The atmosphere in a Ryman village is something that really needs to be experienced, so we encourage you and your family to visit and talk to our teams.
Better still, talk to our residents – they’ve given Ryman a resounding five stars for resident satisfaction in the retirement villages category of the Canstar Blue 2024 awards.
Tailored care, supporting your needs
At Ryman, we work to make a positive difference in the daily lives of our residents.
A range of care options
Ryman villages offer independent living, assisted living in a serviced apartment, and rest home care. Most of our villages also provide hospital and specialist dementia care.
Once you live in a Ryman village, you will always have priority access to our care options over non-residents. Should a space be unavailable at the time of your transfer, we will do our best to accommodate you at another Ryman village that provides the level of care you need until a space becomes available at your preferred village.
We look after and value our team
We think the world of our people, and so do our residents. Their care and dedication creates the unique experience that our residents tell us they love.
We empower our people to constantly improve the resident experience by offering ongoing training and by evolving our processes.
Our award-winning myRyman Care app is one innovation that allows our nurses and carers to spend more quality time with residents.
Life-enhancing innovation
Our Delicious menu
With input from our residents, we create a seasonal menu with Delicious meals which offer choice, and that are made fresh on site by Ryman’s in-house chefs.
Our myRyman Care app
Care is made easy via our award-winning myRyman Care app. Located on multiple devices dedicated to our care centres, the app enables nurses and carers to access clinical data and record daily tasks at the bedside.
Exceeding standards
Of all the large retirement providers in New Zealand (with 15 villages or more), Ryman has the highest number of care centres that have been awarded 4-year certification by the Ministry of Health.
Being awarded 4-year certification means that the sector standard has been exceeded and it is considered the ‘gold standard’ in care.
How it all began
The Ryman story
In 1983, Kevin Hickman walked into a fire-damaged building to investigate how a fire had started. The building was a rest home, and Kevin didn’t like the standard of care he saw.
“There were four people to a room, with shared toilets down a corridor. The people running the rest home were nice and did a good job in as much as they were expected to. But to me, the standard was so poor, and preserving the dignity of the residents didn’t appear to be a priority. That’s how care was in those days.”
That experience got Kevin thinking about what the standard should be. “I thought, what would I want for Mum? I’d want a private room, for a start.”
Finding the perfect business
Kevin and his business partner, accountant John Ryder, had met a few years earlier. Kevin had left the police to set up his own private investigation business and needed an accountant. Kevin says the partnership worked because they had complementary skills.
The pair were on the look-out for a business opportunity. After Kevin’s experience with the fire-damaged rest home, they knew they’d found what they were looking for. They could start a business that would improve the way older people lived and how they were cared for. It was a business they could feel good about and believe in completely.
They soon found a block of 14 two-bedroom flats, which they would convert into their first rest home.
Ryman’s ethos hasn’t changed
More than three decades on, Kevin’s words still ring true, “everything we do must be good enough for Mum and Dad.”
And with that, Ryman – formed from combining Ryder and Hickman – was born
Their venture was a great success, and Ryman was soon in the market for a second property.
A motel complex became their next development. “Because we didn’t have much money, I lived there while we rebuilt it,” Kevin says.
Kevin and John believed in reinvesting to grow the company. Profits were reinvested to lay the foundations for future earnings so that the value of the investment was always compounding.
The Ryman recipe was to buy the right site in a well-established suburb, use working capital to build the first stage of the village, sell that, and use the capital to fund the next stage. They’d then build a care wing and operate the village using home-grown staff trained in Ryman systems.
A belief in growing in-house talent
Both Kevin and John believed in bringing talented people through the ranks to top roles. People had to have the Ryman way of working in their DNA to become Rymanians. They had to have care at the heart of everything they did.
It was a business they could feel good about and believe in completely.
Diane, Ryman resident
A range of care options
Ryman villages offer rest home care, and most villages offer hospital and specialist dementia care. We also offer respite care.
Heather and Don, Ryman residents
We welcome residents from the wider community. However, once you live in a Ryman village, you have priority access over non-residents to a range of care options.*
Our levels of care include rest home, hospital, specialist dementia, and respite care. To make sure you receive the level of care that’s right for you, your needs will be assessed before you arrive.
Rest home care
Rest home residents receive the very best in clinical care, while enjoying the benefits of living in our friendly community.
Each resident is unique. By listening to your needs, we can customise your care and create an individualised care plan. You may need a little help with getting around, or with personal care, or other day-to-day activities.
With this extra help, daily life carries on as normal. The activities and outings are all there for you.
Our care centres are staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A clinical manager and unit co-ordinators oversee our trained carers and registered nurses in the delivery of your daily care.
Wherever possible, the same team members will care for you each day.
Hospital care
Our hospital-level care is the best option if you have any chronic health conditions or need full assistance to move around. We have caregivers who are trained to work with you to maintain all aspects of personal care and dignity. This includes: showering, dressing, wound care management, medication administration, and help with any personal matters where you might need assistance.
At each village care centre the clinical manager and unit co-ordinators oversee our trained carers and registered nurses in the delivery of your daily care.
In hospital-level care, a registered nurse is always on duty, and a medical professional is always available. Wherever possible, the same team members will care for you each day.
Respite care
Respite care provides temporary care in a range of circumstances. You may need some rehabilitation after a hospital stay, or perhaps a little extra help – whether it’s for a single night or a few weeks.
If you still live in your own home, a short stay at one of our care centres could be a welcome break from your usual routine.
And if you’re thinking about moving to a Ryman village, why not spend some time with us in respite care and experience the Ryman difference before you make your decision.
myRyman Life
Our bespoke model of dementia care
Ryman villages recognise that it takes a community to support people living with dementia, and that’s exactly what we’ve created in researching and developing our own bespoke model of dementia care, myRyman Life.
This award-winning care model aims to challenge perspectives on dementia by creating inclusive communities where residents can thrive.
The focus is on experience-based care rather than processes, enabling residents to live in the moment, and to feel kindness, love and security. Residents are supported to continue doing the things that bring them joy and a sense of fulfilment.
In 2020, myRyman Life was named Innovation of the Year – Dementia Care Model Solution at the Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards in Singapore.
“My mum’s a new person now, and far more relaxed than she’s ever been.”
Katrina
Daughter of Jackie – Ryman resident living with dementia.
Care options very between villages, please check with your local village.
Partnering with Alzheimers New Zealand
To help increase awareness and to fight the stigma associated with dementia, Ryman partners with Alzheimers NZ.
In 2019, Alzheimers NZ commissioned Litmus to complete research with 49 people living with dementia. A dementia declaration emerged from this research which has been embraced by Ryman. The declaration is displayed in every village and the contents have been woven into the fabric of our model of dementia care.
All of Ryman’s New Zealand villages, from Whangarei to Invercargill, have gained Dementia Friendly Accreditation as recognised by Alzheimers NZ. The villages were assessed on the seven standards that form the criteria of the assessment programme.
Throughout our villages we share the latest research into the causes and treatment of dementia. We also provide residents and team members with the opportunity to take part in research programmes.
“We are very impressed by how Ryman and its staff have embedded the dementia friendly concept into ‘business as usual’. In doing so, they have transformed their organisation.”
Catherine Hall Chief Executive Alzheimers New
Zealand
We’re proud to be Dementia Friendly Accredited by Alzheimers New Zealand
Care is at the heart of everything we do
Our goal is the same, no matter which village you live in. Since Ryman began over 40 years ago, our standard has been: It’s got to be good enough for Mum and Dad.
Settling in
When you arrive, you’ll be welcomed into the care centre with smiling faces, warmth, and kindness. We know that moving can be unsettling, so we take time and listen. Every resident is unique, so your care will be individualised to suit your needs.
Our electronic care app, myRyman Care, enables us to develop a detailed plan of care with you and your family. The care plan includes everything you need and want – right down to how you like your cup of tea.
Wherever possible, the same team members will care for you every day.
“Everyone was wonderful in supporting my mother’s ever-increasing needs. They went above and beyond to include her in daily life and activities.”
Therese Family member
Your dedicated care team
Our care centres are staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A clinical manager and unit co-ordinators oversee our trained carers and registered nurses in the delivery of your daily care.
Our staff, including dedicated lifestyle co-ordinators, are on hand to help with whatever you need. We also have physiotherapists who regularly visit our villages. There’s always someone to help you shower or get dressed if you need it. Our staff ratios are some of the highest in the care sector in New Zealand.
You’ll have the added security of monitored call bells in your room and ensuite. The alarms are linked to a smart-pager system, ensuring a prompt response. All of our nursing and care staff carry a pager that alerts them if a resident rings their bell.
Medical professionals visit the village regularly. If you prefer, we can arrange for you to keep seeing your current practitioner. Administering medications is managed electronically, allowing up-to-the-minute prescriptions and recording.
Selecting your room and the accommodation premium
At Ryman villages, our private rooms provide superior accommodation – you’ll enjoy a spacious room with a private ensuite.* Due to this we charge an accommodation premium.
The cost of the accommodation premium can vary depending on the type of room you choose. This will be clearly outlined in your admission agreement.
You also have a choice in how you pay for the accommodation premium.
1. Pay by an accommodation premium (default payment option)
This is charged as a daily rate and will vary depending on the village and room you choose.
2. Pay by Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD)
This is a single upfront deposit that covers the cost of your accommodation premium. It’s worth noting that in choosing the RAD payment option we can waive the accommodation premium completely. We do this by refunding the full RAD when you vacate your room.
3. Pay by combination
This option enables you to pay 50 percent of the RAD upfront and 50 percent of the accommodation premium for the length of your stay.
Please note, when you enter your care room the default payment option will be the accommodation premium. However, the RAD or combination payment options are available to you for the length of your stay at a Ryman care centre.
Your village manager will be happy to talk you through these payment options in more detail.
*Some
rooms at Rowena Jackson and Princess Alexandra villages vary.
Berrice, Ryman resident, with Donna
We go the extra mile
We choose to go beyond what’s expected because we want you to live life to the full. We constantly create new ways to make your experience in a Ryman village even better.
Private rooms
Your private room and the care centre lounges are your home. Our priority is to help you feel at home – happy and relaxed.
Private rooms are spacious, with monitored call bells in your room and ensuite*. There’s plenty of room for your friends and family to visit. It’s your own personal space, and you can furnish it with your favourite pieces.
Rooms overlook beautifully landscaped gardens or courtyards. All rooms have a television and some rooms feature an alcove that can fit a display cabinet, drawers, or a small fridge.
*Some rooms at Princess Alexandra and Rowena Jackson villages can vary.
Our myRyman Care app helps us deliver the highest standard of care
At Ryman, our care plans come to life through our own custom-made electronic care app, myRyman Care. Located on multiple devices dedicated to our care centres, the app enables nurses and carers to record daily care tasks for you at the bedside.
Using myRyman Care creates links and prompts, so our nursing and caregiving teams know exactly what they need to do. Everything is securely recorded. Our teams can access and update clinical data more efficiently, and spend more time with residents.
The app has proven its reliability, and our most experienced clinical team members describe myRyman Care as ‘magic’. It has made a once-in-a-generation improvement to the way we deliver care.
Eldercare Innovation Award myRyman Care
In 2019, myRyman Care was named Innovation of the Year – Care Model at the Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards in Singapore. The award recognises the best care model that improves quality of life for older people.
“The myRyman Care app has been invaluable for Ryman, in how much it has improved residents’ lives.”
Victoria Brevoort Nursing Informatics Manager
Exceeding standards in clinical excellence
All rest homes and aged-care facilities in New Zealand must be certified and audited.
Certification audits are conducted every one to four years by external auditing agencies, designated by the Ministry of Health Each audit team includes at least one registered nurse.
Villages are assessed on a range of factors, including clinical records, resident care, policies and procedures, village staff, and the overall environment of the care centre.
The results of the audit determine the length of time (from one to four years) that the care centre is awarded certification. To ensure standards are maintained within the awarded period, an unannounced audit takes place during the certification period.
Achieving 4-year certification is recognised as the ‘gold standard’ in care.
Being awarded 4-year certification means that the sector standard for aged care has been exceeded.
Of all the large providers (with 15 villages or more) in New Zealand, Ryman has the highest number of care centres with four years certification.
Ryman exceeds the sector standard in aged care by continuing to enhance the resident experience. Our myRyman Care app and seasonal Delicious menu are just some of the areas where our villages have been recognised as going above and beyond.
Most Trusted Brand
For us, repeatedly being named by Reader’s Digest as the Most Trusted Brand since 2014 in the aged-care and retirement village category means we’re continuing to move in the right direction when it comes to your experience with us.
Canstar Blue
We’re proud to be recognised by Canstar Blue for having the Most Satisfied Customers, with Ryman receiving a resounding five stars for resident satisfaction in the retirement villages category of the Canstar Blue 2024 awards.
Quality Service Award
It’s an accumulation of the little things which have led to us winning The Reader’s Digest Quality Service Award eight times. This is awarded to the retirement village operator that Kiwis believe best demonstrates excellent customer service.
Continuous training
We invest in the continuous training of our aged-care teams, so they are equipped to deliver the very best of care to our residents.
We’ve developed the Ryman Academy, our own training institute that delivers quality education to our teams. The training, which is delivered through workshops, e-learning, and visual media, is designed to make learning easy and enjoyable.
Training includes topics such as dementia. All staff, including our maintenance teams, learn to support residents’ quality of life in the moment. This helps all our residents to feel valued, understood and happy.
All of our team leaders take part in training to develop their leadership skills as part of our advanced leadership programme.
“Kindness and care are at the heart of everything we do. To make that real, takes people who are highly trained, passionate about what they do, and who care for our residents as if they were caring for their own mother or father.”
Eileen Kielty Home Care Operations Manager
Ryman
Moves
Our team members learn safe techniques for moving and handling residents through our training programme, Ryman Moves.
Training is designed to minimise the risk of injury to residents and team members during moving, handling, sitting, and standing.
Training also covers how to assist with walking, moving residents in and out of bed, and what to do if a resident has a fall.
Village amenities
In the care centre you’ll have access to spacious lounges, dining areas, and tranquil outdoor spaces where you can meet with friends or family. Our village amenities can include a shop, hair and beauty salon, and a reflection room.
Hospitality services
Our housekeeping team will keep your room and ensuite clean and tidy.
Towels are supplied and your bed will be changed weekly – or more often if needed.
Your personal laundry will be taken care of in our commercial laundry. You don’t need to worry about labelling your clothes – it’s all done for you, at no charge.
We can also arrange your dry cleaning off site, at your own cost.
Good communication
To help us continue to improve, we ask questions and listen to what our residents and their families tell us.
Our regular surveys give residents and their families an opportunity to tell us their thoughts on life in the village. We want to hear what you think of the food, or the laundry service, or how well our team communicates with you.
For care updates and general information, we communicate in person, by phone, email, or text. We hold meetings with residents every second month, and meetings with relatives every six months.
The myRyman Care app provides detailed information on each resident and is updated daily. If you need an update, we can provide it at the touch of a button.
We also provide residents with an activities calendar that shows the entertainment and events scheduled for each day of the month.
Safety and emergencies
Every room and every ensuite has a call bell for your security. Everyone in our nursing and care team carries a pager that immediately alerts them if you ring your bell.
Our villages have 24-hour security, including overnight monitoring, to keep our residents safe. All our private rooms and communal areas are fitted with smoke detectors and sprinklers operated by an alarm and monitored by our on-site staff.
Our staffing levels are among the highest in the sector, and our people are highly trained to handle all safety and emergency situations. Every six months, our village centres and care centres hold emergency drills.
We have emergency generators for all our care centres, serviced apartments, and village centres. It’s not a requirement, but we want you and our people to continue to be safe and comfortable in a power outage.
Smoke-free Ryman
Many of our villages are already smoke-free, and our care centres are all smoke-free. We are committed to becoming completely smoke-free in all Ryman villages.
Delicious goes down a treat with residents
Our residents look forward to mealtimes because the food tastes great – and it’s nutritious. Our Delicious menu offers flavoursome meals prepared fresh on site by our village chefs. With a choice of three main courses, including a vegetarian option, the aim is to tempt all taste buds.
Delicious combines those good old favourites – comfort food – with innovative choices. Think roast chicken or baked teriyaki salmon with a soy and ginger glaze.
Our seasonal menu is always evolving as residents tell us what works, and what could be better. We serve up to 120 different meals each month, so the same meal won’t reappear for four weeks – unless of course it’s back by popular demand!
We will provide all your meals and snacks. We can cater for your special dietary requirements as well. Just talk to us about what you need.
Your relatives and friends are welcome to join you for a meal any time. Vouchers are available to purchase from reception or the café.
Our Delicious menu provides good old-fashioned home-cooked meals, as well as some exotic dishes.
Sample menu
Breakfast
A variety of cereals, porridge, fruit, toast, and a selection of spreads
Morning tea
Aunt Daisy’s southern cheese rolls
Lunch
Baked fish with lemon and thyme crumb or
Roast pork belly with red pepper sauce with Scalloped potatoes, steamed carrots, broccoli, and orange hollandaise
Vegetarian option
Penne pasta with creamy tomato sauce, olives, and capers
Dessert
Vanilla profiteroles with berry coulis or
Fruit with ice cream
Afternoon tea
A selection of fresh fruit and sandwiches with cakes, slices, or biscuits
Evening meal
Roast carrot and coconut soup
Chicken cakes with guacamole and salsa or Macaroni cheese
Traditional lettuce salad with Highlander dressing
Supper
Tea, Milo, or cold drinks
Small sandwiches, light muffins, or biscuits
Joyce, Ryman resident
Ryman Triple A
Designed for older people, the Ryman Triple A (Ageless, Active, and Aware) exercise programme encourages residents to keep moving.
Fitness is for everyone
Catering for all levels of ability, this free programme improves strength, balance, and mobility. Building these skills helps prevent falls and enables residents to maintain their independence. Many residents tell us they’ve become more active since moving into the village.
We developed the programme from the belief that you’re never too old to be active – you just have to find the right way to do it.
The level of participation is your choice – you can be involved as much as you want.
In our care centres we have classes in Functional Fitness or, if you’re less mobile, a ‘Sit and be Fit’ class. It’s a good opportunity to have a laugh and get to know other residents.
Based on international research, Triple A helps residents to increase their ability to perform and enjoy day-to-day activities.
Rest home and hospital care
Rest home care fitness classes are held at least twice a week and hospital care fitness classes are held every day.
Specialist dementia care
Fitness classes for residents in dementia care are held in the morning and afternoon every day. This means that residents can join in at a time that suits their needs.
Ryman Engage
Ryman Engage – our activities programme – is about embracing opportunities and activities that are thoughtfully planned, and age and ability appropriate. This free programme makes the most of our beautiful amenities. A firm favourite with residents is our weekly Happy Hour.
The key is to provide something for everyone. From arts and crafts to outings in the village van, there are many options to spark your interest. Regular entertainers perform for residents, and relatives often come along to join in the fun.
News and Views
News and Views provides a time for residents to regularly get together and discuss current events and local news.
Memory Lane
Residents love our Memory Lane sessions where they reminisce and share stories. Coming along is a great way to get to know others and to make new friends.
Sensational Senses
Sensational Senses is a programme that provides a range of sensory experiences. These can include a hand and nail pamper, foot spa, aromatherapy, baking, and gardening.
Musical Moments
Musical Moments is a fun session where residents can enjoy a sing-along, play musical instruments, or discuss different pieces of music.
Men’s Club
The Men’s Club is a chance for men to socialise and share common interests. Activities can include working together on a craft project, playing a game of pool, or enjoying a beer-tasting session.
Village Friends
Village Friends is about creating a sense of family and friendship. A village friend could help with calling the housie numbers in the village hospital, reading to someone who cannot read for themselves, or playing the piano for a sing-along.
Make and Create
Making something new encourages creativity and a sense of purpose. Make and Create activities can include art classes, knitting for a good cause, scrapbooking, collage, or making decorations for one of our many themed events.
Happy Hour
Every week, residents can come along to our complimentary Happy Hour in the lounge. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and catch up with friends over a drink and nibbles.
Mind Benders
Many residents love to play word games, board games, quizzes, and anything that challenges the brain. Mind Benders provides intellectual stimulation for everyone.
Active Games
Residents can stimulate mind and body by joining others in active games such as indoor bowls, quoits, balloon tennis, or boccia.
Getting out and about
We organise regular outings, both within the village and out in the community. Outings in the village can include high tea in the garden, a walk to the bowling green, or a movie at the village theatre. Outside the village, residents can enjoy a scenic walk, a picnic in the park, or a visit to a local café.
Engage is for everyone
We make sure that residents who prefer the quiet life have opportunities to do what they enjoy, too. There’s something for everyone – pet visits, musical performances, or the peace and quiet of the village library.
Our myRyman Life model of dementia care encourages residents to challenge their brain by learning new games, activities, or skills. This may help to build new brain cells and strengthens the connections between them.
Dora, Ryman resident, with her great-granddaughter
“The team showed love, care, dignity and respect, not only to Mum, but to every other resident that I saw in their care.”
Family member of a Ryman resident
John, Ryman resident
Moving to the care centre
Moving to a new home can be stressful. At Ryman, you’re in safe hands. We can guide you through your move and help you settle into one of our care centres.
Assess your eligibility
You need to be assessed by your local Needs Assessment and Service Coordination agency (NASC). Or in some regions, Care Coordination – Older Person’s Health.
NASC and Care Coordination provide information, advice, and support to older people who are having difficulty living at home. You can contact them yourself, or your doctor can refer you.
NASC or Care Coordination will visit you and talk to you about your lifestyle and care needs to find the best care option for you. After you’ve been assessed, you’ll receive a letter to let you know whether you’re eligible for care services and, if so, what level of care and government assistance you are entitled to.
To find your local NASC visit: www.nznasca.co.nz/regions Or call Seniorline on: 0800 725 463
Come in for a visit
Choosing the right care centre is an important decision. People often tell us they ‘feel the difference’ when they visit one of our care centres, and we’d love to share that with you.
By visiting during the day, you can join in with the activities on offer. Or you might like to stay at the village for a few days and experience our respite care.
If you need transport to get here, we will arrange it for you.
What will it cost?
Costs vary according to your needs and the type of care accommodation you choose.
Once you have been assessed as needing care, you can apply for a residential care subsidy. This subsidy is asset tested by Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) and the asset thresholds are adjusted yearly.
If your assets are below the asset threshold, you qualify for government funding. WINZ will then assess your income and tell you how much you will need to pay towards the cost of your care.
If your assets are above the asset threshold, you pay the cost of care. If your assets fall below the threshold during your time in care, you will become eligible to apply for the residential care subsidy.
Selecting your room
At Ryman villages, our private rooms provide superior accommodation – rooms are spacious and include a private ensuite*.
The room price depends on the type of room you select. This will be clearly outlined in your admission agreement.
Some of our villages also offer accommodation in care suites.
If you have any questions about accommodation prices or payment options, our village managers will be happy to answer them for you.
*Some rooms at Rowena Jackson and Princess Alexandra villages vary.
Applying to move in
Before you move in, you or your representative will need to sign an admission agreement and provide information about your personal circumstances and preferences.
It’s important for us to know this information so we can give you the best possible care and quality of life.
We understand that privacy is important to you. At all times, your information will be treated with sensitivity and kept confidential.
We will also give you or your representative a charter of your rights as a resident.
Moving and settling in
Feeling nervous and apprehensive is a normal part of the settling-in process. Other residents have faced the same changes that you are experiencing and have made the move surrounded by the caring support of our village team.
Familiarising yourself with everything the care centre has to offer is a great way to keep yourself occupied during those first days. Remember that having the privacy of your own room allows you to enjoy the peace and quiet of your own surroundings.
Your first day
On the day you arrive, you’ll be welcomed, shown to your new room, introduced to the team and other residents, and shown around the care centre. Everything will happen at your own pace.
We’ll discuss your health and personal care needs with you or your representative.
Using our electronic care app, myRyman Care, we’ll develop your care plan that will include your physical, social, spiritual and cultural wellbeing, your personal needs, and your goals.
The myRyman Care app makes it easy for you and your representative to be involved in your care plan. The app is located on multiple devices dedicated to our care centres, enabling nurses and carers to record daily care tasks for you.
Having a primary caregiver enables a dedicated team member to learn your needs and preferences. This helps to build a trusting relationship and adds a natural rhythm to the care we provide.
We want to really get to know you. We are caring for you in your home within the village, so learning all the little things about you – life experiences, hobbies, achievements, preferences – is important in helping you become part of the village family.
Make it your own
We want to make this phase in your life as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Setting up your room in your own way will help you settle in. You’re welcome to bring your armchair or a favourite piece of furniture. Displaying your personal belongings around you will help you feel more at home.
Our team members are sensitive to the feelings that new residents can experience. You may have questions, need help, or simply want to chat about how you are feeling. All of our team are here to help, at all times.
Compare our care with others
We know that the decision to move into a care centre is an important one for you. Before you make that decision, we want you to know everything about living in a Ryman village.
Key questions to ask
Does the village provide rest home, hospital, specialist dementia care, and respite care?
Will I have a private ensuite?
Do menus provide choice, cater for special dietary needs, and are meals made fresh on site?
Ryman care
Yes, all our villages provide rest home and respite care. Most of our villages also provide hospital and specialist dementia care.
Yes, our rooms have a private ensuite.*
Yes, Ryman Delicious menus provide three main meal choices including a vegetarian option. We also cater for special dietary needs. All our meals are made fresh on site by our village chefs.
Many other care providers
Are emergency generators installed at the village?
Are activities and exercise programmes provided throughout the week?
Yes, all our serviced apartments, village centres, and care centres have emergency generators. Facilities and systems run seamlessly even if the mains power goes out.
Yes, our Engage and Triple A activities and exercise programmes are held throughout the day, 5 to 7 days a week.
There are outings in the village van, concerts, and social events to keep you entertained.
*Some rooms at Rowena Jackson and Princess Alexandra villages vary.
Key questions to ask Ryman care
Are there real-time, accessible care plans?
Is there an electronic medication system used so that medication is dispensed accurately?
Do care staff carry pagers that alert them to call bells?
Yes, our electronic care app, myRyman Care, is on a device carried around by our caregivers. This custom-made app enables nurses and carers to securely record daily care tasks for each resident.
Yes, we use 1CHART to ensure up-to-the-minute prescriptions and recording.
Many other care providers
Does the care centre provide free WiFi for residents and their families?
Are the courtyards and gardens well maintained?
Yes, all our nursing and care staff carry a pager that alerts them if a resident rings their bell.
Yes.
Is there an ongoing leadership programme that provides training and support for leaders throughout the village and organisation?
Yes, all our villages have beautifully landscaped areas for you to enjoy.
Yes, Ryman’s Lead, Energise and Perform (LEAP) programme provides ongoing development and support for Ryman staff at all levels of leadership.
Frequently asked questions
General
living
I need to live in the care centre, but my partner can live independently. Can we still be together?
We offer independent and assisted living options in the village, as well as care, so you can still be near each other even if your needs are different.
Can I have my own things in my room?
Absolutely. We encourage you to personalise your room as much as possible. It could be your favourite armchair, or a piece of furniture where you can display the things that are special to you. This creates comfort in the familiar which will help you feel more at home.
Can I hang pictures on the walls of my room?
Yes, this is all part of making your room your own. Our maintenance staff will be happy to do the job for you.
Am I able to venture outside the village?
We ask rest home and hospital residents to notify staff when leaving the village to ensure their safety and security.
Do I need to get up for breakfast?
The choice is yours. Most residents have breakfast delivered to their room each morning. If you prefer, you are welcome to have breakfast in the dining room with other residents.
Do I always have to eat my meals in the dining room?
We encourage you to eat in the dining room as this is an opportunity to connect with other residents. However, you are welcome to eat in your room.
How can I attend church services?
We have weekly church services with different denominations at the village.
Can I keep my own doctor?
Yes, it’s your choice. Alternatively, we have medical professionals who visit the village regularly.
When can I have visitors?
This is your home, so visitors are welcome any time – there are no set visiting hours. The care centre amenities are available for you to enjoy with your friends and family. We simply ask that you respect the privacy of other residents.
How will my medication be managed?
We employ full-time medical professionals who will oversee your medication using our electronic medication system.
What if I need help during the night?
Care staff are on duty all night. All rooms and ensuites have call bells that can be used in addition to the night checks by care staff.
Fees and costs
How do I apply for a subsidy?
You need to be assessed by your local Needs Assessment and Service Coordination agency (NASC). Or in some regions, assessment is done through Care Co-ordination – Older Person’s Health.
To find your local NASC visit: www.nznasca.co.nz/regions Or call Seniorline on: 0800 725 463
NASC or Care Coordination provide information, advice, and assistance to older people having difficulty living at home. You can contact them yourself or your doctor can refer you.
How long will it take for my subsidy to be assessed?
It’s important to submit your application as soon as possible and to respond to all requests from Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) promptly. On average, WINZ approves a standard subsidy application in eight to twelve weeks.
Why do I have to pay a fee while I am applying for a subsidy?
Your pension forms part of your fee when applying for a subsidy. Until the subsidy is approved, we do not receive full funding.
You will continue to receive your pension into your bank account until WINZ advises otherwise.
We do not charge you full private fees for the first eight weeks while you are applying for a subsidy, unless your subsidy is not approved.
What is a personal contribution?
This is the sum that WINZ calculates you need to contribute towards your fees. WINZ will be able to explain how this has been calculated and can discuss any concerns you may have.
Will I still receive my pension?
If you receive New Zealand Superannuation, a Veteran’s Pension, or a benefit, most of this will go towards your care.
You can keep a personal allowance, and will also receive a clothing allowance. This is determined by WINZ.
Jo with Shona, Ryman respite resident
“There are no strangers here – just friends we haven’t met.”
Leone, Ryman resident
Serviced apartment living
Independence with support
Assisted living in a serviced apartment offers support you can count on.
Enjoy the good life
Serviced apartments come with support that makes life easier, like housekeeping and a chef-prepared meal every day. Your apartment is centrally located in the heart of the village. Getting around is a breeze and staying active and connected with others is easy.
It’s independence with support, wrapped up in a community you can thrive in.
Your home, your sanctuary
Light and spacious with a seamless flow throughout, you’ll find everything is at your fingertips. A neutral colour palette means you can style and furnish your apartment just the way you like it. There’s a kitchenette with a fridge-freezer and microwave and a private ensuite. Some of our villages offer studio apartments. Call bells mean help is always there, as they’re monitored 24 hours a day by on-site staff.
More than a feeling
It’s the feeling of togetherness that’s the real clincher for serviced-apartment residents. You have a variety of outings, regular transport options and endless opportunities to join in with activities when you feel like it. You feel included, you feel supported, but more importantly, you can still enjoy the sanctuary of your own apartment.
“It makes me feel years younger knowing that help is there if I need it. It takes the stress away.”
Elizabeth Serviced-apartment resident
Did you know?
In some instances you may be able to receive rest home care in the comfort of your serviced apartment.
Kieran, Ryman resident
The assisted-living package
Like independent living, the weekly fee for serviced apartments covers:
• Rates, water rates, and building insurance
• Gardening and ground maintenance
• Maintaining and operating the community amenities
• Our Engage activities programme, including musical entertainment, fashion shows, arts and crafts, and regular outings
• Our Triple A exercise programme, including classes such as Functional Fitness, Circuit, or ‘Sit and be Fit’
• Exterior maintenance of your apartment, including inside and outside window cleaning
• Social time at our weekly Happy Hour
• Call bells monitored 24 hours a day by our on-site staff
• Village management and administration
• Scheduled transport services and outings.
The services listed above combined with the additional services below make up the basic assisted-living package:
• A daily main meal – three choices, including a vegetarian option
• Daily morning and afternoon tea
• Towels provided
• Linen changed weekly – or as needed
• Housekeeping
• Electricity and heating
• Regular outings to the shops and further afield.
You can choose between fixed or indexed weekly fees which are set at the time of signing your agreement. Indexed weekly fees are linked to the annual increase in superannuation.
Talk to your sales advisor to find the best option for you.
The weekly fee options:
Fixed weekly fee: $
Indexed weekly fee: $
Optional extras include:
Breakfast to your apartment including delivery
Additional meal in the dining room
Your bed made daily
Personal laundry service (three times a week)
Showering assistance (three times a week)
Administering medications
Monitoring blood pressure, helping with support stockings etc
Basic wound care (including dressing)
Total:
Support plus
This package includes the details listed in the assisted-living package, plus:
• Breakfast to your apartment
• Additional meal in the dining room
• Your bed made daily
• Personal laundry service (three times a week).
Additional cost:
Optional extras include:
Showering assistance (three times a week)
Administering medications
Monitoring blood pressure, helping with support stockings etc
Basic wound care (including dressing)
Total:
Full service
This package includes the details listed in the assisted-living package, plus:
• Breakfast to your apartment
• Additional meal in the dining room
• Your bed made daily
• Personal laundry service (three times a week)
• General care and help including:
– Dressing and setting up each day
– Showering assistance (three days a week)
• Administering medications (three times a day)
• Monitoring blood pressure, helping with support stockings etc
• Basic wound care (including dressing)
• Evening settle service.
Additional cost:
Optional extras include:
Daily showering assistance
Total:
Rest home care
This package includes the details listed in the assisted-living package, plus:
• Breakfast to your apartment
• Additional meal in the dining room
• Your bed made daily
• Personal laundry service (three times a week)
• General care and help including:
– Dressing and setting up each day
– Showering assistance (three days a week)
• Overview by a registered nurse
• Co-ordinating and paying for GP visits
• Providing medical supplies
• Supplying pharmaceuticals
• Administering medications
• Monitoring blood pressure, helping with support stockings etc
• Basic wound care (including dressing)
• Evening settle service
• Support and help to and from the village centre
• Night visits (twice a night).
We can help you find the mix of living and care options that suits you.
RAELENE BOYLE
KEALBA NELLIE MELBA
New Zealand
DEBORAH
HAMILTON Kirikiriroa
CAMBRIDGE Kemureti
Ngāmotu
PALMERSTON NORTH Te Papaioea WHANGANUI
Tauwharekākaho NELSON Whakatū
Waihōpai
AUCKLAND Tāmaki-makau-rau CHRISTCHURCH Ōtautahi
Tūranga-nui-a-Kiwa
Ahuriri
Karanema
WAIKANAE
LOWER HUTT Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai
WELLINGTON Te Whanganui a-Tara
Village directory
Ryman villages in New Zealand
Whangārei
• Jane Mander Village Te Kamo
09 435 3803
Auckland
• Bert Sutcliffe Village Birkenhead 09 483 2226
• Bruce McLaren Village Howick 09 535 0225
• Edmund Hillary Village Remuera 09 570 0070
• Evelyn Page Village Orewa 09 421 1815
• Grace Joel Village St Heliers 09 575 1563
• Karaka Karaka 0800 000 290
• Keith Park Village Hobsonville 09 416 0750
• Logan Campbell Village Greenlane 09 636 3883
• Miriam Corban Village Henderson 09 838 0880
• Murray Halberg Village Lynfield 09 627 2727
• Possum Bourne Village Pukekohe 09 238 0808
• Takapuna Takapuna 0800 000 290
• William Sanders Village Devonport 09 445 0909
Hamilton
• Hilda Ross Village
Hamilton East 07 853 6148
• Linda Jones Village
Flagstaff 07 853 3382
Cambridge
• Patrick Hogan Village
Cambridge 0800 300 515
Tauranga
• Bob Owens Village
Bethlehem 07 579 2519
Taupō
• Taupō
Taupō 0800 000 290
Gisborne
• Kiri Te Kanawa Village Lytton West 06 863 3639
New Plymouth
• Jean Sandel Village Whalers Gate 06 751 4504
Napier
• Princess Alexandra Village Ahuriri 06 835 3018
Whanganui
• Jane Winstone Village St Johns Hill 06 348 9564
Havelock North
• James Wattie Village Havelock North 06 877 0701
Palmerston North
• Julia Wallace Village Milson
06 354 9761
Waikanae
• Charles Fleming Village Waikanae
04 293 1390
Lower Hutt
• Bob Scott Village Lower Hutt 04 568 2250
• Shona McFarlane Village Lower Hutt 04 567 8725
Wellington
• Malvina Major Village Khandallah 04 478 3422
• Rita Angus Village Kilbirnie 04 387 7625
Nelson
• Ernest Rutherford Village Stoke 03 538 0882
Rangiora
• Charles Upham Village Rangiora
03 310 8644
Ryman offices
Christchurch office
Airport Business Park 92 Russley Road
Christchurch
PO Box 771
Christchurch 8042
New Zealand
Auckland office
Building 8, Level 1
Central Park
666 Great South Road Ellerslie, Auckland 1051
Melbourne office Level 5
6 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia
PO Box 54
Collins St West
Melbourne VIC 8007
Christchurch
• Anthony Wilding Village Halswell 03 338 7696
• Diana Isaac Village Mairehau 03 385 3518
• Essie Summers Village Beckenham 03 337 6500
• Kevin Hickman Village Riccarton Park 03 342 4755
• Margaret Stoddart Village Riccarton 03 337 6500
• Ngaio Marsh Village Papanui 03 354 6608
• Northwood Northwood 0800 685 122
• Park Terrace1 Christchurch 0800 000 290
1 Council approved
• Woodcote Village Hornby 03 338 7696
Rolleston
• Rolleston1 Rolleston 0800 000 290
Dunedin
• Frances Hodgkins Village St Clair 03 455 7936
• Yvette Williams Village Roslyn 03 455 7936
Invercargill
• Rowena Jackson Village Waikiwi 03 215 9752
For more information on any of our retirement villages
New Zealand 0800 588 222 rymanhealthcare.co.nz
Australia +61 1800 288 299 rymanhealthcare.com.au
OPEN & COMPLETE
OPEN & UNDER CONSTRUCTION
UNDER CONSTRUCTION PLANNED
All information contained in this book is correct at the time of printing.
rymanhealthcare.co.nz