Anne and Robyn switched their Home Care Package to ACH Group

Two customers who changed their Home Care Package provider to ACH Group

Anne and Robyn’s seamless switch to ACH Group

For Valley View couple Anne and Robyn, switching to ACH Group as their Home Care Package provider was simple.

When we asked why they made the switch, Anne replied “The fees and costs were less; the people were local and having access to the Health Studio really appealed to us.”

“Within a week of calling someone came to our house and took us through the services they offered.”

Read Anne and Robyn’s story below and if you’re considering changing your Home Care Package provider to ACH Group, our Welcome Team Consultants will help make your experience simple and stress-free.

Anne and Robyn have always been fit and active and as they enter their 80s, they wanted that to continue.

In May 2024, the Adelaide couple changed Home Care Package providers to ACH Group having previously received services from a national company with headquarters in Queensland.

“For us, switching to ACH Group was simple,” Anne said.

“The fees and costs were less; the people were local and having access to the Health Studio really appealed to us.

“We are really looking forward to looking more deeply at the services ACH Group offers and are really looking forward to checking out the new Health Studio at Rostrevor.”

The Wains were approved for a Level 1 Home Care Package in 2022 and relied on word of mouth to choose a provider.

“It was a whole new world for us having access to support particularly given we have always been really independent,” Robyn said.

“We had a friend recommend a provider and we just went with that but after a while we both realised the services weren’t meeting our expectations.

“Another friend recommended we call ACH Group and within a week of calling someone came to our house and took us through the services they offered.”

Anne and Robyn get their house cleaned once a fortnight, are getting appointments with a Podiatrist to keep them both on their feet and are exploring the options available at ACH Group’s Health Studios.

Both are members of the Tea Tree Gully walking group who walk through the Tea Tree Plaza twice a week, Anne has always enjoyed exercise classes at the gym while Robyn is a lifelong golfer at the Highercombe Golf Club where he plays every week.

In April this year, after 49 years of trying, Robyn finally landed the elusive hole in one on the par three, 157-metre fifth hole using the trusty five wood.

“We want to stay as fit as we can but obviously you need to adjust your exercise as you get older,” Anne said.

“Having access to a gym through ACH Group was just the cherry on top of the services that are on offer.

“We get what we want and what we need but it is good to know that there is more on offer through ACH Group if our needs change.”

Are you considering a change in your Home Care Package Provider?

For over 70 years, ACH Group has been supporting older South Australians to live well as they age. We know aged care and provide a complete range of services, from help at home, social and health to finding a new home in retirement living or residential care.

Follow the 5 simple steps to change your Home Care Package Provider to ACH Group.

ACH Group is here to support you every step of the way

If you’re considering changing your Home Care Package provider to ACH Group, our Welcome Team Consultants will help make your experience simple and stress-free.

Ready to take the next step?

Request a call with our Welcome Team
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What is the role of an Occupational Therapist?

Understanding the vital role of Occupational Therapy 

There are many misconceptions about what an Occupational Therapist (OT) actually does, especially in the context of aged care. Often, people aren’t fully aware of the diverse ways OTs support older people, from improving independence to enhancing quality of life.

As we get older, occupational therapy plays a crucial role in helping individuals maintain their abilities, stay engaged in meaningful activities, and live life to the fullest.

Occupational Therapists are problem solvers!

Occupational Therapists work alonside people to determine challenges they might be facing in relation to their daily activities (e.g. showering, preparing meals, gardening) and offer advice around either finding new ways of doing the activity to make it achievable, introducing equipment, or changing the environment to support them in the activity.

Why is it important to see an Occupational Therapist?

The diverse role of an Occupational Therapist mean that they can have a lasting impact on people’s lives, helping them to maintain independence, or to regain independence after a decline in health or a hospital stay.

Occupational Therapists also offer advice on how to simplify activities, strategies to reduce falls in the home and activities to promote quality of life, such as linking people to social and community groups.

What does a day of an Occupational Therapist at ACH Group look like?

Typically, a day involves appointment with customers, arranging and collecting equipment to trial, and chatting to other team members about customer goals and outcomes, in addition to:

  • Goal setting and problem solving alongside residents at residential care homes to engage in activities purposeful to them.
  • Assessing and advising on cognitive ability and development of activities to support stimulation and engagement for residents at all stages of dementia.
  • Prescribing equipment or looking at new ways to complete activities to support residents to live as independently as possible.

How could you benefit from working with an ACH Group Occupational Therapist?

ACH Group is comitted to helping you live life to the fullest by focusing on the things you want to achieve. An Occupational Therapist (OT) can visit you at home and undertake a customer-centred assessment.

Learn more about Occupational Therapy and contact us today.

Centenarians have their say

ACH Group customers Bill, Peg and Charlie

Special Good Lives moment with three centenarians from ACH Group community

In a world that seems to be constantly evolving, where the pace of life quickens, and technology reshapes the way we live, there exists a remarkable group of people who have weathered a century of change.

Let us introduce you to three centenarians from the ACH Group community who came together to have a little fun, share their insights on the world, and reflect on their lives.

Bill Leaney, a resident of Milpara, is 102 on 1 October 2024, Peg Cousins, who turns 104 on 7 October 2024 lives in one of the ACH Group retirement villages, while Charlie D’Angelica, a home care customer, celebrated his 101st birthday on 22 September 2024.

Bill Leaney

What is the biggest world event you have experienced?

World War II. I was 18 years old and served in the Australian Army in New Guinea.

If you were Prime Minister for the day, what is the first thing you would do?

Resign! I wouldn’t want all that responsibility.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I think Italy because I have been talking about the country with the Italians who live at Milpara with me.

If you had one superpower, what would it be?

If I had a superpower, what would I do… I’d probably organise the maximum possible care for animals. I love animals.

What was your favourite decade to live in?

The late 20s and early 30s. I was a happy child in school in North Adelaide. Living at Milpara has been one of the most exciting times of my life, I’ve made so many new friends.

Peg Cousins

What is the biggest world event you have experienced?

World War II. I was in the army for three and a half years as a signal officer.

What technology has had the biggest impact on your life?

Bypass operation of the heart. It is a surgery I have had.

If you could travel anywhere in the world,
where would you go?

I prefer travelling in Australia. If I was to go overseas it would be Canada in autumn – that is a wonderful time of the year.

What advice would you give a younger version of yourself?

Strive for what you want but stay content. I think so many young people sacrifice a peaceful life for what they want.

If your life story was a movie, which actor would play you?

Vivien Leigh.

Charlie D’Angelica

What is the biggest world event you have experienced?

For me, it was moving to Australia – 90 years back! I went to Campbelltown School and couldn’t speak a word of English. I would get teased by the other kids, but I was smart and got through school and then owned a market garden.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I would have gone to Italy if more of my family still lived there, but I’m pretty happy being here in Australia.

If your life story was a movie, which actor would play you?

Tyrone Power.

What is a superpower you would like to have?

To go back in time.

If you were Prime Minister for the day, what is the first thing you would do?

I don’t think I’d change anything. I think we’re going pretty
right here. We’re lucky. Australia can change government, whereas other parts of the world – they can’t change government.

Good Lives Magazine

This article was published in Good Lives Magazine – Issue 12.

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Being yourself never gets old

Let’s celebrate the life experiences and interests of older people because ‘being yourself never gets old’!

And while older people continue to live the life of their choosing, ACH Group – a trusted South Australian aged care provider – is here for the rest whether that be social experiences, health and wellbeing, support at home or a new home in our retirement living villages and residential care homes.

South Australia’s Week of Ageing Well

South Australia's Week of Ageing Well

South Australia’s Week of Ageing Well

Held 1-7 October, in line with International Day of Older Persons (1 October), South Australia’s Week of Ageing Well connects people through events and initiatives that support them to live happy and meaningful lives.

The Week of Ageing Well is an initiative everyone can support.

‘Life not labels’ is a key message of the Week that encourages people to reflect on what may define us, including busting negative stereotypes about getting older, and to share our unique stories and interests that inspire and form meaningful connections, promoting healthy and happy living.

Here are some exciting ways you can benefit by getting involved:
  • Celebrate the contributions and value of older people in your community
  • Meet new friends and connect with your community
  • Opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds
  • Take on new roles and enhance your confidence as you share and learn new skills
  • Improve your mental and physical wellbeing
  • Combat feelings of loneliness and isolation
  • Tackle ageism by sharing stories and raising awareness
  • Raise the profile of your community as you highlight fun and interactive activities for all ages

Visit the SA Health – Week of Agein Well page to learn more.

Ageing Well with ACH Group

At ACH Group, we are here to support older people to live a good life, and to connect them to their community through the delivery of quality care, services and accommodation.

Here’s how we marked the Week of Ageing Well

Connecting with the community

ACH Group participated in two expos to engage with the community and share information about ageing well. These events provided an excellent opportunity to connect and showcase how ACH Group can support people to live good lives.

International Day of Older Persons

Tuesday, 1 October marked International Day of Older Persons – a global celebration recognising the growing population of older people and the potential it brings for shaping more inclusive attitudes and contributions in social, economic, cultural, and spiritual areas.

We shared a special Good Lives moment with three centenarians from the ACH Group community, as published in Good Lives Magazine, issue 12.

Opportunity to meet people from diverse background

At Milpara Residential Care Home, the staff extended an invitation to the community to celebrate Dashain. This significant festival is a time for family reunions, blessings, and the triumph of good over evil in the Nepali community.

Bill, who recently celebrated his 102nd birthday, joined in the festivities as the eldest person at Milpara by putting tika, a ceremonial mark applied on the forehead, as a sign of respect and blessings.

Bill, who recently celebrated his 102nd birthday, joined in the festivities as the eldest person at Milpara by putting tika, a ceremonial mark applied on the forehead, as a sign of respect and blessings.

Raising the profile of the community, highlighting fun and interactive activities for all ages

Residents of Kapara Residential Care Home delighted in a vibrant performance with St Peter’s Woodlands Grammar School. They enjoyed a lively Jungle Book musical, brilliantly presented by the talented Reception to Year 3 students.

It was a joy to witness their excitement and talent on stage. As King Louie would say, “I wanna be like you” – celebrating fun and friendship at every age!

Jungle Book musical photo at St Peter's Woodlands Grammar School

Taking on new roles, sharing and learning new skills

Did you know? Art encourages curiosity and mindfulness, ultimately inviting you to explore your creativity while connecting with a supportive community excited to learn and create alongside you. Learn more about Art in Focus art classes.

Improving mental and physical wellbeing

Good health is one of the foundations of a good life and varies for everyone.

Marylin, Ashley and Susan are all regulars at ACH Group’s Health Studio in Glenelg. For Marilyn, who has been fit and active her entire life, her past six months visiting the Health Studio has been about recapturing her fitness.

For Susan, the big attraction is the equipment which can tailor workouts to very specific resistance levels. Susan added, “I also love coming to the fitness classes because I feel as though I don’t only get a good workout but a good chance to socialise as well.”

Learn more about health and wellbeing and contact us today.

Tackling ageism by sharing stories and raising awareness

Wednesday 9 October marked Ageism Awareness Day and ACH Group invited the community to rethink ageism and challenge the stereotyping based solely on a person’s age.

Age shouldn’t define why our later years can’t be some of the most fulfilling of our lives.

You do you! At ACH Group, we celebrate the life experiences and interests of older people, because ‘being yourself never gets old’.

The ACH Group difference can be felt through real experiences and the promotion of valued roles, fostering a sense of belonging and community connection.

Being yourself never gets old

Let’s celebrate the life experiences and interests of older people because ‘being yourself never gets old’!

And while older people continue to live the life of their choosing, ACH Group – a trusted South Australian aged care provider – is here for the rest whether that be social experiences, health and wellbeing, support at home or a new home in our retirement living villages and residential care homes.