BlueCross Box Hill Opens its Doors to Public

The newest aged care residence in Box Hill is opening in October, and the public got to see it first hand on Saturday 22 September 2018. 

The community was invited to head to BlueCross Box Hill’s Open Day at 48 Dorking Road, Box Hill. From sausage sizzle to barista-made coffee and all-day entertainment, the child-friendly event was a fun family day out for everyone and not only those who are seeking aged care options for a family member or friend.

Radio broadcaster, Darren James, of 3AW broadcasted live, and in keeping with AFL finals season, Mike Brady performed his classic footy hits.

Comprising a basement and three levels, the 216-bed residence boasts a host of world-class facilities including a memory support environment for people living with dementia, several lounges, dining and sitting rooms, activity areas, consultation and treatment rooms, library, hairdressing salon, private dining room, as well as a cinema and gymnasium.

Blue Cross Interim Chief Executive Officer Robert Putamorsi says that while the residence provides state-of-the-art facilities, the emphasis is to create a homelike environment for the residents.

“We understand it can be a challenging experience for an older person to transition from life at home to life in a residential aged care home,” says Mr Putamorsi.

“That’s why BlueCross Box Hill has been designed with lots of functional spaces such as multiple dining and sitting rooms to make it feel more like a household. There is also a private dining room for families who want to share a family meal.”

BlueCross Box Hill marks the latest addition to BlueCross’ stable of 33 aged care residences in Victoria. Combining modern aged care with contemporary living, stage 1 of the $64 million purpose-built residence opens in October with 173 rooms, followed by stage 2 in 2019 with 43 rooms.

“We have a long and proud history of providing quality aged care to older Victorians since 1993. We are excited with the opportunity to expand our services to Box Hill and look forward to supporting the aged care needs of the community,” says Mr Putamorsi.

BlueCross merged with Sapphire Care in July 2017, forming one of the largest aged care providers in Victoria. Currently operating as two separate brands, Blue Cross and Sapphire Care offer a full spectrum of residential, home care and respite services. Following the merger, the combined company now owns and operates 33 aged care residences across Victoria, caring for over 2,500 residents and providing home care support to 850 people living in their own home.