The Ryman Care Guide
Cover photo | Linda and Sami
Annie, Ryman Resident with PK
Welcome
Taking the first steps in choosing the right aged-care centre is an important decision. At Ryman villages, along with independent and assisted living, we offer a range of aged-care options. These include low care, high care, specialist dementia care and respite care.
When people visit our aged-care centres, they often tell us that they feel the difference. There’s something in the way residents and our aged-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 villages can see that philosophy is the cornerstone of everything we do.
It’s something to be experienced, so we encourage you and your family to come and visit and talk to our teams.
Better still, talk to our residents and their families. After all, they’re the experts on everything you need to know about a Ryman aged-care centre.
Dora, Ryman resident with Gurpreet
Tailored care, supporting your needs
At Ryman, we work to make a positive difference in the daily lives of our residents.
Caring
for you now and into
your future
Ryman villages offer independent living and serviced apartment living. We provide residential aged care (also known as low care and high care), specialist dementia care and respite care.
If your health needs change, it’s good to know you will always have priority access to our care options over non-residents at the time of your transfer. Should a space be unavailable at the time of your transfer, we will do our best to accommodate you at another Ryman village in close proximity.
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 that offer choice and that are made fresh on site by Ryman’s in-house chefs.
Our myRyman Care app
Our custom-made electronic app, myRyman Care, enables nurses and carers to see and record information about each resident. This award-winning innovation creates greater efficiencies and reduces paperwork.
Emergency generators
We have emergency generators at every village because we want our residents and our people to be safe and comfortable in a power outage. It's not a requirement, but we believe it's important. Emergency generators provide power to our serviced apartments, aged-care centres and village centres.
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, then 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 aged care options
Ryman villages offer low care, high care, specialist dementia care and respite care.
Heather and Don, Ryman residents
Once you live in a Ryman retirement village, you will always have priority access to our care options over non-residents at the time of your transfer.
Our levels of care include low care, high care, 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 or prior to transferring within the village.
Low care
Low-level care 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 your 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 coordinators 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.
High care
Our high-level care is the best option if you have any chronic health conditions or need full assistance to move around. We can help with showering, dressing and with medications, wound care, continence management and any other care you need.
A clinical manager and unit coordinators oversee our trained carers and registered nurses in the delivery of your daily care.
In high-level care, a registered nurse is always on duty and our doctors are also 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.
Respite care is often fully funded, therefore it’s worth taking advantage of the welcome break that a stay in one of our villages can provide.
If you’re thinking about making a permanent move to a Ryman village, why not spend some time with us in respite care? This way you can experience the Ryman difference before you make your decision.
Dementia care
Our villages are supportive and caring communities that work to improve the experience of residents living with dementia. We provide a safe environment for residents to enjoy living in, with a focus on experiences, rather than processes.
Our myRyman Life model of dementia care is an innovative approach to supporting residents living with dementia. The approach focuses on enabling residents to live in the moment and to feel kindness, love and security. It promotes spontaneity, laughter and fun.
Each of our dementia care areas has an easy-to-navigate environment, including tranquil outdoor areas that are safe and secure. Cues and signage support memory and help residents with orientation.
In 2020, myRyman Life was named Innovation of the Year – Dementia Care Model Solution at the Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards in Singapore.
Dora, Ryman resident, with her great-granddaughter
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, 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.
Your dedicated care team
Our care centres are staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A clinical manager and unit coordinators oversee our trained carers and registered nurses in the delivery of your daily care.
Our staff, including dedicated lifestyle coordinators, 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 aged-care sector in Australia.
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.
Doctors visit the village regularly. If you'd prefer, we can arrange for you to keep seeing your own doctor. Administering medications is managed electronically, allowing up-to-the-minute prescriptions and recording.
Selecting your room
At Ryman villages, our private rooms provide superior accommodation – you'll enjoy a large room and every room has a private ensuite.
The room price (RAD/DAP*) depends on the type of room you select. This will be clearly outlined in your accommodation agreement.
If you have any questions about room prices or payment options, your village manager will be happy to answer them for you.
“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 *Refundable Accommodation Deposit / Daily Accommodation Payment
Ivon, Ryman resident with Natasha
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 and air conditioned, with monitored call bells in your room and private 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.
23m² to 31m² (including ensuite)*
*Room layouts, sizes and amenities vary. Please check with your local village.
Bedroom
Private ensuite
Our myRyman 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, which enables nurses and carers to record daily care tasks for each resident.
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
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
Clinical excellence
Achieving clinical excellence in aged care is critical. Our investment in myRyman Care has helped, as has our constant focus on improvement.
Our clinical audit results in Victoria are excellent. We already exceed the government standards in Australia and will continue to improve.
In 2019, an unannounced audit took place at Ryman’s Nellie Melba Retirement Village in Wheelers Hill. Auditors assessed the village’s care centre against stringent new standards introduced by the Australian federal government. Nellie Melba received a 100 percent pass mark for all eight standards.
Ryman has a dedicated Clinical Governance Committee that works to enhance the quality of our clinical performance across all of our Australian villages. The committee is focused on innovation in healthcare and makes sure the care we deliver aligns with emerging best clinical practice.
Continuous training
We invest in the continuous training of our 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 certification-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. Ryman has partnered with the University of Melbourne who help deliver our advanced leadership program.
“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 Regional Manager Operations
Miriam, Ryman Resident
Ryman Moves
Our team members train in Ryman Moves to learn safe techniques for moving and handling residents.
The training is designed to minimise the risk of injury to our 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, café, dining areas and tranquil outdoor spaces where you can meet with friends or family for a cup of tea. Our village amenities can include a shop, hair and beauty salon and a reflection room.
The care centre is fully air conditioned for year-round comfort.
Hospitality services
Our housekeeping team will keep your room and ensuite clean and tidy.
Fresh towels will be delivered each day and your bed will be changed weekly – or sooner 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.
Our myRyman devices provide 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 patrols, 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 6 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 meal times 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) complimentary exercise program encourages residents to keep moving.
Fitness is for everyone
Catering for all levels of ability, this free program improves strength, balance and mobility. Building these skills helps to 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 program 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 up to you – 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.
Low care and high care
Low care classes are held at least twice a week and high care classes are held 7 days a week.
Specialist dementia care
Classes for residents in dementia care are held daily, 7 days a week.
Ryman Engage
Ryman Engage – our activities program – is about embracing opportunities and activities that are thoughtfully planned and age and ability appropriate. This free program makes the most of our beautiful amenities. A firm favourite with residents is our weekly complimentary 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 program 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 singalong, 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 singalong.
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 a nibble.
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 helps to build new brain cells and strengthens the connections between them.
Linda, Ryman resident, with Sami
“We know mum is safe, extremely well cared for and in an ideal setting.”
Mirren, daughter of care centre 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 the Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS).
ACAS provides information, advice and support to older people who are having difficulty living at home. You can contact ACAS yourself, or your doctor can refer you.
ACAS 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.
ACAS contact number is 1800 200 422.
Come in for a visit
Choosing the right care centre is one of the most important decisions you will make. Come in to a Ryman care centre and see for yourself what we can offer you or your loved one.
You are also welcome to visit us during the day to 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.
Government subsidies may be available to help pay your fees.
Fees
for aged care are assessed as follows:
Basic daily fee
A contribution towards your daily living costs, such as nursing and personal care, meals, linen, laundry and electricity. All residents other than Australian ex-prisoners of war pay this fee.
Means-tested care fee
This fee is determined by your assessable income and assets. You’ll only pay this fee if your income and assets are over the minimum threshold.
Accommodation payment
This fee covers your accommodation and may be paid as a lump sum or as a daily fee.
Please talk to us if you would like us to explain this further.
Selecting your room
At Ryman villages, our private rooms provide superior accommodation – the rooms are large and each room has a private ensuite.
The room price (RAD/DAP*) depends on the type of room you select. This will be clearly outlined in your accommodation agreement.
If you have any questions about room prices or payment options, our village manager will be happy to answer them for you.
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. And 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, we’ll develop your care plan that will include your physical, social, spiritual and cultural wellbeing, your personal needs and your goals.
Our myRyman Care app makes it easy for you and your representative to be involved in your care plan. The app is located on a device in your private room where your carer or nurse can 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 – life experiences, hobbies, achievements, preferences – is important in becoming 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 your favourite pieces of furniture. Displaying your personal belongings around you will help you feel more at home.
Our team members are sensitive to the feelings and processes 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 low care, high care and specialist dementia care?
Will I have a private ensuite?
Do menus provide choice, cater for special dietary needs and made fresh on-site?
Ryman aged-care
Yes, all our villages provide low care, high care, specialist dementia care and respite care.
Yes, all 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.
Other aged-care providers
Are emergency generators installed at the village?
Are free activities and exercise programs provided throughout the week?
Yes, all our serviced apartments, village centres and aged-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 programs 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.
Key questions to ask
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?
Does the care centre provide free WiFi for residents and their families?
Are the courtyards and gardens well maintained?
Are rooms fully air conditioned?
Is there an ongoing leadership program that provides training and support for leaders throughout the village and organisation?
Yes, our custom-made digital care management system, myRyman, enables nurses and carers to securely record daily care tasks for each resident.
Yes, we use Medsig to ensure up-to-the-minute prescriptions and recording.
Yes, all our nursing and care staff carry a pager that alerts them if a resident rings their bell.
Yes.
Yes, all our villages have beautifully landscaped areas for you to enjoy.
Yes, our villages and care rooms are air conditioned to keep residents and staff comfortable all year round.
Yes, Ryman’s Lead, Energise and Perform (LEAP) program provides ongoing development and support for Ryman staff at all levels of leadership.
Other aged-care providers
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 living in the village, as well as serviced apartment living, so you can still be near each other even if your needs are different.
When will the care centre open at new villages?
Typically, the care centre opens within a year of the first residents moving in. However, this is subject to Ryman obtaining bed licences. Refer to the individual village fact sheet for more information.
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?
Yes, you can enter and leave the village freely. For security and safety, we ask you to make us aware of when you are leaving.
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 a doctor who visits 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 registered nurses. Together with your GP and pharmacist, your nurse 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 The Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS).
ACAS contact number is 1800 200 422
ACAS provides information, advice and assistance to older people having difficulty living at home. You can contact ACAS 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 Centrelink promptly. On average, Centrelink approves a standard subsidy application in 8 to 12 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 Centrelink advises otherwise.
We do not charge you full private fees for the first 8 weeks while you are applying for a subsidy, unless your subsidy is not approved.
What is a personal contribution?
This is the sum that Centrelink calculates you need to contribute towards your fees. Centrelink will be able to explain how this has been calculated and can discuss any concerns you may have.
Will I still receive my pension?
The basic daily fee is 85 percent of the single person’s rate of the basic age pension. This applies whether you are single or a couple. Once this fee is paid, the remainder is yours to keep. Special conditions may apply, so check with Centrelink.
Jo with Shona, Ryman respite resident
“When we needed care, it was there. I’m so grateful for that.”
John, independent resident with spouse in care
Serviced apartment living
Independence with support
Serviced apartments come with support that makes life easier. It’s great for you and reassuring for your family, because they know you’re being looked after.
Enjoy the good life
Serviced apartments are in the heart of the village, with easy access to everything the village has to offer.
Many residents say that living in a serviced apartment takes the stress out of daily life.
You can choose a home-cooked main meal every day from our Delicious menu, as well as morning and afternoon tea, in the dining room. Other services are available, too. You might like to have your breakfast delivered to your apartment – it’s your choice.
“It makes me feel years younger knowing that help is there if I need it. It takes the stress away.”
Elizabeth
Serviced-apartment resident
Your apartment is your home
You can make your apartment your own with your favourite furniture, art and ornaments. You’ll have a kitchenette with a fridge-freezer and microwave, a separate bedroom and a private ensuite. A balcony or terrace provides space for you to grow flowers and herbs.
The call bells mean help is always there, as they are monitored 24 hours a day by on-site staff.
We can help you find the mix of living options that suits you. That’s the beauty of serviced apartments. Some of our villages also offer studio apartments.
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 program, including musical entertainment, fashion shows, arts and crafts and regular outings
• Our Triple A exercise program, 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 the Consumer Price Index.
Talk to your sales advisor to find out the best option for you.
The weekly fee options:
Fixed weekly fee: $
Indexed weekly fee: $
Optional extras include:
Breakfast to your apartment
Additional meal in the dining room
Your bed made daily
Personal laundry service (three times a week)
Showering supervision*
Administering medications
Monitoring blood pressure, helping with support stockings etc
Basic wound care (including dressing)
*Includes safety checks while resident showers unassisted.
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 supervision*
Administering medications
Monitoring blood pressure, helping with support stockings etc
Basic wound care (including dressing).
*Includes safety checks while resident showers unassisted.
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
– Full help with showering (three days a week)
• Administering medications (three times a day)
• Evening settle service.
Additional cost:
Optional extras include: Daily showering assistance
Total:
We can help you find the mix of living and care options that suits you.
Extra 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)
• Administering medications
• Evening settle service
• Prompting and help to and from the village centre
• Night visits (twice a night).
Additional cost:
Optional extras include:
Daily showering assistance
Total:
Berrice, Ryman resident, with Donna
Home care
Home Care
Packages at Ryman
Did you know you can access a government-subsidised Home Care Package in the comfort of your Ryman apartment or villa?
What is a Home Care Package?
A Home Care Package provides you with government-funded support and care services that support you to live independently in a Ryman apartment or villa for as long as possible. You have choice and flexibility in the way these services are provided to you.
A Home Care Package is suitable for those who need help with a number of everyday tasks, from home cleaning and daily support to transport and social outings.
There are four levels of government Home Care Packages available. These begin at level 1 for basic care needs and progress through to level 4 for high care needs.
This means you can adjust the type and level of services you receive depending on your changing needs.
4 3 2 1
Why choose a Ryman Home Care Package?
At Ryman, we have a dedicated home care team to help you with your Home Care Package. From assisting with the application process to tailoring services to meet your needs. We will help maximise your Home Care Package funding so you can benefit from the right level of care and support services.
What services are available?
Services vary from home cleaning and personal care to transport and social outings – all based on your assessed Home Care Package level.
Our team will discuss your options with you and will help tailor your package to your individual needs. It’s your package, done your way. We can also provide support while you wait for your Home Care Package, by either accessing other government or private funding that is available.
Your package, your way
Personal Care
Showering and bathing assistance including hair washing
Assistance with compression stockings
Personal grooming, including hair, make up and nail care
Dressing and undressing
Incontinence management
Getting in and out of bed
Domestic tasks
Vacuuming, mopping and dusting
Making or changing the bed
Laundry and ironing
Meal delivery, grocery shopping and meal preparation
General cleaning, rubbish collection
Washing or walking your pet
Companionship
Help running errands
Transport
Company at appointments
Personal hobbies and interests
Social outings or events
Someone to have a cuppa and chat with
Play games or watch a movie
Allied Health
In-house podiatry and physiotherapy
Administering medications
Wound care
Catheter assistance
Help with arranging other health services
Aids & equipment
Mobility aids
Support with technology
Personal alarms
Communication aids
Other aids and equipment related to your care
Carer support
Support to organise respite care
In-home respite care
Overnight care
Our in-house Home Care Team
0407 940 902
rymanhealthcare.com.au
Joyce, Ryman resident
“There are no strangers here – just friends we haven’t met”
Leone, Ryman resident
KEALBA
RAELENE BOYLE
ESSENDON
ESSENDON TERRACE
Village locations
Victoria, Australia
NELLIE MELBA
WEARY DUNLOP RINGWOOD EAST
COBURG NORTH
CHARLES BROWNLOW
HUBERT OPPERMAN
BERT NEWTON
DEBORAH CHEETHAM
OPEN & COMPLETE
OPEN & UNDER CONSTRUCTION
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
PLANNED
Map current as at 1 October 2024
MT ELIZA
JOHN FLYNN
Village directory
Ryman villages in Australia
Melbourne
• Coburg North Coburg North 1800 314 425
• Bert Newton Village Highett 1800 314 425
• Essendon Essendon 1800 314 425
• Essendon Terrace Essendon 1800 314 425
• Hubert Opperman Village Mulgrave 1800 314 425
• John Flynn Village Burwood East 03 8849 8700
• Kealba Kealba 1800 314 425
• Nellie Melba Village Wheelers Hill 03 8513 1900
• Raelene Boyle Village Aberfeldie 03 8317 4801
• Ringwood East Ringwood East 1800 314 425
• Weary Dunlop Village Wheelers Hill 03 8545 1400
Mornington Peninsula
• Mt Eliza1 Mt Eliza 1800 314 425
Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula
• Charles Brownlow Village Highton 03 5260 8000
• Deborah Cheetham Village Ocean Grove 03 4238 3000
Ryman office Victoria
Melbourne office Level 5
6 Riverside Quay
Southbank VIC 3006
Australia
PO Box 54
Collins St West
For more information on any of our retirement villages
Australia 1800 314 425 rymanhealthcare.com.au
New Zealand +64 3 366 4069 rymanhealthcare.co.nz
1 Council approved All information contained in this book is correct at the time of printing.
Melbourne VIC 8007
rymanhealthcare.com.au
