Elaine gets the best from residential life at Aeralife Northcote

Elaine Dixon’s adaptability and positivity have enabled her to get the best out of life as a resident at Aeralife Northcote.

Seeing the best in people

Elaine Dixon is 84 years ‘young’ and enjoys residential life in her golden years. Having transferred from another residence last July, she’s been in full-time residential care for up to four years. In talking to Elaine, it’s clear she sees the best in people and possibilities, no matter the age or situation. Her affirming smile, bright eyes, and qualities of humility and adaptability help her meet challenges and seize opportunities.

Appreciating the value of life

Elaine likes the variety and diversity of staff at Aeralife Northcote and has made friends with many of them since transferring to the home. “I’m very happy here,” she says. Smiling, she adds, “I’m very adaptable.”

It’s clear Elaine gets the best from life because she also appreciates its value. She understands the challenges of dementia, for example, given her daughter developed the brain disorder at just 54 years old.

Hills and Skye

Elaine talked to us about growing up in Leongatha in South Gippsland, Victoria, a pretty corner of the country. Growing up with four sisters in a happy home, she explored the countryside and thought about her Celtic ancestors. A car accident in Australia held Elaine back briefly, but she soon bounced back and embraced her next adventure.

With two daughters, two granddaughters and her family, sisterhood has been a continuing theme in Elaine’s life. It’s given her a strong sense of independence and perspective. “I don’t want to go on and on,” Elaine says, “but I look forward to every day and what that will bring in my new home here in Northcote.”

Elaine loves the standard of care at the home, the quality of the residence, and its proximity to shops, amenities, and cafes in the Northcote area. She’s proud of her room (pictured) and the privacy it provides when she’s not interacting with residents and staff, taking part in lifestyle activities, or being with her family.

Residential life at Aeralife Northcote is comforting

Elaine was very happy to learn she’d secured a place at Aeralife Northcote. It smoothed her transition from another Aeralife community, especially as she was very close to her sister who was also at the home but sadly passed away there. Helped by her positive, cheery disposition, Elaine has thrived in the Northcote residence since July.

At Aeralife, we help residents like Elaine meet their specific care needs through a person-centred approach. This approach harnesses staff skills, technology, lifestyle activities, education, and clear, empathetic dialogue. Aeralife Northcote offers permanent residential care, short-term respite care, dementia care, and palliative care, all within a safe, welcoming community.