A place to grow and thrive

BURGER CENTRE

“Arriving at the Burger Centre for the day is like coming home and going to a party at the same time”, says executive manager Christina Caddy-Gold.

Over the past six months the centre has grown into a real hub for active seniors, with expanded programs catering to a diverse array of interests and pursuits across two locations: North Shore at Montefiore in Hunters Hill and next door to the Montefiore Randwick campus.

“But it is so much more than that,” Caddy says. “It is also a place where we offer an enjoyable opportunity for independent people living in their own homes to connect and be inspired. I have heard that people think the Burger Centre is only for frail people, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Our members may be mature, but they are vibrant, sharp thinkers looking for stimulation and fun. They impress me every day.”

Burger has two programs running simultaneously five days per week. In Randwick, the main centre (AVIV) hosts an independent living social support program offering a huge variety of interesting and challenging activities. These include tai chi, hydrotherapy, art therapy, art appreciation tours, nature outings, Taronga Zoo visits, armchair travel tours, music appreciation, movies, IT lessons and so much more. Sometimes clients are spoiled for choice.

Specialising in person-centred programs, with a focus on smaller group sizes and positive ageing principals, programs are designed around enablement and inclusivity to support everyone’s individual needs at all levels. Among areas addressed are socialisation and stimulation needs, hearing impairment, seniors living with Parkinson’s, vision impairment, mental health concerns, dementia and those from non-English speaking backgrounds.

In another area of the purpose-built Burger Centre, the team hosts a Respite for Carers group for members with cognitive decline who live with their families. The program is designed to provide peace of mind to carers seeking much-needed respite. Carers can feel safe to leave their loved ones while they go about their chores, enjoy some much needed “me” time, or work for the day. Our client gets to have a day where they are cared for in a fun, safe, supportive and stimulating environment. Hunters Hill offers these programs four days per week.

“All team members are professionally trained and experienced and also display warmth, passion, enthusiasm and understanding, building long-term relationships with the people who come to the centre who may have very little other community connection. Team members become friends, confidantes and mentors and embody the Chesed values of kindness and caring we are committed to at the Burger Centre”, Caddy-Gold says.

Weekly sessions start at 10am and finish by 2pm. The day includes transport doorto-door, to and from the venue, morning tea/coffee and sandwiches or cake, a three-course hot meat kosher lunch, along with all activities, programs and entertainment. Visiting friends and family are welcome to join on a casual basis.

Fees are chargeable direct to members Home Care package or subsidised through the Department of Health, so the cost to the client is absorbed or minimal.

Last month saw the launch of the Sensory Garden, featuring benches, a waterfall and garden beds planted with jasmine, leucospermum shrubs and gazanias, catering to different senses. Sensory planting is designed to help people feel calm and grounded, but can also inspire a recollection of distant memories. Research has shown that people living with dementia respond very well to sensory stimuli and reminiscent therapy, which was one of the main motivations for the creation of the garden.

“I encourage everyone to experience what we offer. There really is something for everyone, whether your passion is art, music, socialising, going on outings or visiting museums … and the first visit is complimentary and obligation free,” Caddy-Gold says.

Burger Centre is a partnership between JewishCare and Montefiore, and is supported by JCA.

For more information, please call 83459147 or email info@burgercentre.com.au