Glendale Lodge celebrates first birthday

BaptistCare Glendale Lodge in Elderslie NSW is celebrating its first anniversary - marking 12 months of walking alongside residents as they continue to live connected, meaningful lives surrounded by family, friends and community. 

The purpose-built, 96-bed residential aged care home welcomed its first residents in June 2025. It forms part of a unique BaptistCare precinct that includes Angus Bristow Retirement Village and Narralling affordable housing community, bringing people of all ages and life stages together in one connected neighbourhood. 

As Australia’s aged care sector shifts towards more person-centred care, Glendale Lodge demonstrates how residential aged care homes can keep people connected to family, friends and local life, said Residential Manager Nirusha Shrestha. 

“This is what can happen when aged care is fully integrated into the broader community, rather than separated from it. Residents can continue to live close to family, maintain their local connections and remain part of everyday life in the Macarthur region,” said Ms Shrestha. 

“In our first year, we’ve seen residents form new friendships while staying connected to the people and routines that matter most.” 

Residents also experience a home-like model of care, living in one of six smaller households, each with its own kitchen, dining room and lounge. The familiar environment encourages independence, connection and a genuine sense of belonging. 

For resident Pauline, moving into Glendale Lodge meant staying close to her loved ones. One of the home’s first residents, she enjoys the friendships, lifestyle programs and regular visits from family who all live nearby. 

Her daughter, Maree, volunteers at the home several days a week, while Pauline’s granddaughter Holly says visits feel more like coming to Nan’s house. 

“My kids love their visits with Nan; they get so excited when our car turns down the street because they know they are about to visit Nan’s home,” Holly said. 

“It’s been wonderful to see Nan so well cared for, and how she has formed close connections with her housemates and the care team.” 

Ms Shrestha said it had been a privilege to watch Glendale Lodge come to life over the past 12 months. 

“A year ago, we had empty rooms and a vision. Today, Glendale Lodge is filled with laughter, celebrations and genuine connections between residents, families and employees,” she said. 

“Our first birthday is a chance to celebrate the people who make this place so special and to show that aged care can be about much more than support and services. 

“It’s about helping people live meaningful lives surrounded by the relationships that matter most.”