Frequently asked questions

General living

I need to live in the aged-care centre, but my partner can live independently. Can we still be together?

We off er independent living in the village, as well as serviced apartment living, so you can still be near each other even if your needs are diff erent.

When will the aged-care centre open at new villages?

Typically, the aged-care centre opens within a year of the fi rst 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 diff erent 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 diffi culty living at home. You can contact ACAS yourself or your doctor can refer you.

We have a wide range of options to suit your needs. The village manager will help you and your family to choose the package that is best for 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 fi rst 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.

“Everybody’s dedicated to their work – they’re not just workers, they all love their job. They all deserve a gold medal.”

Graham Ruthven Independent resident

Our villages are people’s homes

A Ryman village off ers a lifestyle option to suit everyone. Our aged-care centres off er a range of options* to suit what you need. Or, if you’d like to combine the independence of living in your own apartment with help as you need it, then a serviced apartment could be just what you need.

So much goes on in a Ryman village. Our residents are involved in bowls tournaments, fashion shows, live performances, and a colourful mix of outings.

Residents love the village environment and they feel connected to their neighbours and friends – whether they love the social life or enjoy a little quiet time. Some villages have cafés or you can pop down to one of the village lounges, have a cup of tea, and catch up with people.

The beauty of village life is that you can take it or leave it. If some days you want to shut your door to have some quiet time, you can.

“It’s a family atmosphere in the village. We say it often: we’re one big family.”

Murray and Margaret Daniels Independent residents