Renaissance House offers aesthetically pleasing, state-of-the-art short-term accommodation for people with disability. Photo: Hartley Lifecare.
A proper holiday can be a tricky thing for a person with a high-needs disability to come by, but three and a half years since the launch of Hartley Lifecare’s Renaissance House, the short-term accommodation with 24/7 care for people living with disability is well and truly living up to its name.
“Not only does it recognise the efforts of the building company that made it possible – Renaissance Homes – but the word ‘Renaissance’ evokes revival, rejuvenation, renewal,” Hartley Lifecare CEO Eric Thauvette says.
“That’s the purpose of Renaissance House – a chance for carers to have a break, reset, fill their cup, and a chance for our guests as well to experience something different.”
Purpose-built for the Canberra-based not-for-profit organisation, Renaissance House offers carers a well-deserved break from the physical and emotional demands of their role, with real peace of mind their loved ones are receiving the best of care in state-of-the-art facilities.
The house is not only rigged with the infrastructure to meet even the highest support needs, such as ceiling hoists, but is designed to be aesthetically pleasing, providing the comfort and convenience of “a resort-style hotel within their own home”.
During a stay, Hartley Lifecare’s qualified staff can facilitate social visits with friends, take guests out and about into the community or enjoy a range of activities from swimming to cafe stops, bowling nights to in-house game nights and cooking, using custom kitchen benches that can lower as needed.
“We try to ensure there are always opportunities for entertainment,” Eric says.
“It means carers can spend the time they need to recharge their batteries, and perhaps do things they may not be able to do when the person with disability is with them. But importantly, the person with disability also benefits from the social activity and an experience they won’t find everywhere.”
Eric says a lot of good can come from a holiday when a person with disability doesn’t need to worry if their needs can be met.
Aside from the benefits of increased social activities, for some people, particularly younger people, it allows them to test the waters of increasing their independence in a safe environment.
“For individuals who are thinking of moving out of the homes of their carers, it’s a way to judge how comfortable they feel about not being around mum and dad, and being a bit more independent. Some of them are delighted to discover that they thrive,” he says.
“Regardless, everyone who comes enjoys their stay. We’re very proud of Renaissance House and the impact it has on people with disability and their carers. They often say ‘Is it over already?’ We love seeing them enjoying their time with us so much.”
For more information on Renaissance House and respite care options, contact Hartley at enquiriesSTA@hartley.org.au or on 6282 4411.
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