Sundale - the future of aged care on the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast continues to be Australia’s most desirable ‘sea change’ destination.

With a world class hospital, enviable medical facilities, a progressive university, stunning restaurants and resort-style golf courses on our doorstep, it is little wonder people contemplating a simpler and more carefree lifestyle are investigating what the Sunshine Coast has to offer.

An influx of ‘sea-changers’ is helping shape the region. Sunshine Coast residents are seven years older than the average Australian (37 years of age), while over 65-yearolds make up more than 20 per cent of the Sunshine Coast population, with this figure trending up.

Younger Baby Boomers and those from Gen X, who are now in their fifties, want amenity that will evolve to suit their changing needs.

COVID-19 and the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety forced Sundale along with a host of other providers to pause their plans for the Sunshine Coast.

However, with clarity returning to the sector, Sundale is looking at the future of aged care with a new renewed focus, so it can cater for the needs of the community for decades to come.

Sundale CEO, Danielle Mackenzie said exciting developments are either underway or scheduled to begin at Coolum, Palmwoods, Nambour and Tewantin.

“Backed by extensive research, coupled with the recommendations recently handed down by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, we now know what retirees want and the services they will expect in the future,” Ms Mackenzie said.

“Sundale’s comprehensive roadmap for change will prioritise continuum of care, allied health assistance and specialist support services, including In-Home Care, which will support people to stay in their homes for longer.

“We’re also evaluating models of accommodation, including independent living units and the small household model, which would be unique to Sundale on the Sunshine Coast.

“Sundale’s small household model of accommodation could include a purpose-built home of approximately 10 residents who each have their own bedroom and ensuite, which are designed around a communal living and dining area to replicate the feel of a family home.”

Ms Mackenzie said along with great design, those looking to retire on the Sunshine Coast want evolving In-Home Care services, to feel part of a community and access to innovative technology.

“We’re not far away from driverless cars and voice activation is becoming commonplace, therefore, it is no surprise technology will be at the forefront of future Sundale developments,” Ms Mackenzie said.

“This technology will ensure residents can remain connected with family or friends and access the services they need, whenever they want.”

If you’d like to know more about Sundale, visit sundale. org.au or call 1800 786 325.