Emmaus Village: Supporting those with dementia

Emmaus Village: Supporting those with dementia

by Barry de Silva

Today, there are an estimated 421,000 Australians living with dementia. For families with a loved one affected by the illness, offering support with compassion and respect during this stage of their life is so priceless.

Emmaus Village in Port Macquarie is a new welcoming community for those living with dementia. Loan finance was provided by the Diocesan Investment Fund (DIF), and the Village opened earlier this year offering a world-leading style of living that stimulates the mind, enhances quality of life, maintains family connections, and provides independence with consistency every day.

Inspired by best practice

The facility’s design emphasises familiar, everyday living environments, ensuring that residents can continue their routines and engage in activities that bring them joy and fulfilment. This approach not only improves their mental and emotional well-being but also helps in maintaining their cognitive abilities.

Inspired by best practice methods, including the world-renowned Hogeweyk model from the Netherlands, the residential care service is unlike any other in the region. It features 12 beautifully appointed homes, a chapel, hair dressing salon, corner store, cafe, cinema, wellness centre, music room, and workshop, as well as signed-posted streets, and several outdoor spaces including barbecue and entertainment area, garden potting shed, and chicken coop. This innovative approach ensures that residents experience a lifestyle that is both engaging and comforting, significantly improving their overall well-being.

Supporting the community

Owned and operated by St Agnes’ Catholic Parish, Emmaus Village benefits from the Parish’s long-standing commitment to the Port Macquarie-Hastings community. 

St Agnes’ Catholic Parish CEO, Tony Leahy highlighted the significance of the loan financing from the DIF for the development of the facility. “The support from the Diocesan Investment Fund has been greatly appreciated in bringing Emmaus Village to life,” Mr Leahy said.

“Our goal is to provide a living environment where individuals with dementia can thrive, while maintaining their independence and enjoying a high quality of life. The success of Emmaus Village design and construction is a testament to what can be achieved when we combine innovative ideas with strong community and government support. Our first residents are settling in well with improvements being noted in their overall health and wellbeing.”