It could be the most fun aged care home in Australia, but those wanting to settle down in later life might need a rethink.
In Cranbourne, in Melbourne’s east, happy hour can start at 11am, disco balls light up the dancefloor, and love stories unfold, sometimes with the help of an Elvis impersonator.
Resident Corry moved into Lifeview Willow Wood expecting a quiet life.
Instead, she found new friendships, a new partner named Keith, and even celebrated a mock wedding.
“There was a magnetism about meeting Keith. We became companions and he asked me to marry him,” Corry says.
“We got married by Elvis [impersonator] at last year’s annual celebrations.”
Corry is part of the vibrant Lifeview community, where aged care means freedom of choice and a lot of fun.
The provider is Rainbow Tick accredited, pet-friendly, and known for its inclusive, resident-led programs.
Behind much of the energy is Annitta Macauley, Social Support, Events and Diversity Manager at Lifeview, who was this year nominated in Ageing Australia’s national You Are ACE! Awards.
Annitta has been with Lifeview for 10 years and says she can’t imagine working anywhere else.
“I actually don’t think I’ll ever leave. I love this job,” she says. “It’s the residents. They’re incredible. Every day I feel lucky to help them make memories, not just reflect on the past.”
Ageing Australia CEO Tom Symondson acknowledged the vital role inclusivity plays for both residents and providers in the sector.
“What we know to be true is older Australians are a diverse group of people who deserve care that is tailored to their identity. Just because you move into an aged care home does not mean you leave who you are at the door,” Mr Symondson said.
“It’s so important that providers like Lifeview are given props for going above and beyond to make people feel like they are not simply tolerated but celebrated in all the facets of their identity.”
Starting as a lifestyle assistant, Annitta has grown with the organisation and now oversees all lifestyle programs, corporate events and diversity initiatives across four homes.
“We run a home-to-home model,” she explains. “If a resident wants breakfast at two o’clock, they can have breakfast at two o’clock. If they want happy hour to start at 11am, we’ll make it happen.”
Lifeview was also a winner of a You Are ACE! Award at Emerald Glades, VIC, a reflection of its creative, resident-focused approach.
One of the biggest highlights on Lifeview’s calendar is the Positive Ageing Celebration, a themed gala with dancing, costumes, entertainment and curated menus.
“We’ve had residents go through rehab just so they could get up and dance on the night,” Annitta says.
“It gives them something to look forward to, and the energy in the room is electric. It’s my favourite day of the year.”
