Residential aged care in Penrith: Families and residents share why they choose Lemongrove Gardens
For many Australians, thinking about a move into residential aged care raises important questions: What is the process? What will it cost? Will I still have my independence? A 2024 survey commissioned by AMP found that four in five people over 65 don’t feel fully prepared for the transition, and more than half have concerns about making the move.
At Lemongrove Gardens residential aged care in Penrith, however, the reality often exceeds expectations. Residents speak warmly of the welcoming staff, new friendships and activities that bring a real sense of joy and belonging. Families notice the difference too, sharing how quickly loved ones settle in and how reassured they feel knowing care is so personalised.
In this article, you'll hear from residents and their families first-hand about what life can look and feel like in a supportive and loving residential aged care environment.
When Allison brought her mum, Sylvia, to Lemongrove Gardens, she remembers the comfort of those first moments. “I came in here and felt comfortable straight away. [Mum] was made [to feel] very welcome. And she could bring into her room whatever she wanted to make it her home.”
Over three years later, Allison’s peace of mind hasn’t wavered. She says the way staff communicate gives her confidence that Sylvia is always cared for. “If there's ever an issue with Mum, I get a phone call to say that this has happened or the doctor's been in and he's changing Mum's medication…Mum’s very well cared for.”
Linda, the Lifestyle Coordinator, has worked at Lemongrove Gardens for more than a decade. She knows genuine, supportive care comes from knowing each resident well and keeping families involved, too.
“Communication is very important. Knowing [the] residents, knowing what their interests were, what they are now, how they spent their day before they came in here and maintaining contact with their family as well,” she explains.
It’s not just families who notice the difference genuine support can make – residents also appreciate the love and care they receive. Gwen says, “They are … our friends and helpers. It's not just bricks and mortar here. There's the love and there's the care, and I don't know that I can express it any better than that.” Valerie, feels the same, explaining, “The staff are really good… and you can have a laugh with them too.”
Louise explains that she never waits long when she needs help. “[The staff] are just so helpful and caring. Anything you want, you know, you ring the buzzer, they’re there.”
Finding friendship and connection
One of the things Allison notices about her mum’s life at Lemongrove Gardens is the friendships she’s made. Sylvia is part of a group of women who sit together at every meal. “She’s made a lot of nice friends here… they have a laugh and a joke… they’re very welcoming ladies, very caring. It’s a good environment to be in,” Allison says.
Residents also explain how much the connections they’ve made at Lemongrove Gardens mean to them. Valerie says the friends she’s made have helped her through many stages of moving into residential aged care. “Having friends here has given me comfort. It’s really helped me through a lot of different stages. I’m glad I moved here.”
Gwen loves how she’s not only made friends with other residents, but the staff, too. “I have made wonderful friends here. I really have. Particularly the residents. But our staff here are unbelievable... it’s a lovely place to live.”
She says the connections she’s made at Lemongrove Gardens have been invaluable. “Without friends and friendship, it’s a very lonely life… here I find with all the different personalities, I am thoroughly enjoying my experiences.”
Coffee Club is one of those ways Lemongrove Gardens helps bring residents together. While resident Louise says the coffee is nice, what she enjoys most is the connection it fosters. “It’s a lot of fun,” she says.
Allison loves seeing how much her mum looks forward to it, too. Some days the cart is set up in the lounge, other days out in the courtyard. Wherever it is, it quickly becomes a spot for conversation, company and something sweet. Which there is always plenty of - whether it's a Tim Tam, a cupcake, or even tubs of fruit and custard from the fridge. Allison smiles when she says, “They’re never short of anything that they need or want.”
Linda, who helps plan the activities for the residents, sees how these moments bring people together. “[The residents] love getting together, being very sociable… there’s been some strong friendships formed here.”
A home where purpose and independence are encouraged
For Allison, one of the most encouraging changes she has seen in her mum is the confidence she’s gained since moving to Lemongrove Gardens. “She's doing things now that when Dad was alive, she would never do. Dad was always the social one… until she came in here and discovered that she was just as social. If not more social than what dad was. It’s been a really good thing for her to be able to find that confidence in herself.”
Linda explains “[We have] a range of activities ...social, spiritual, intellectual, and physical… on the monthly calendar… and we also have our little tailored activities, purposely tailored to suit certain residents… even if one resident said that they'd like to do something, we will try and fit it into that calendar.”
Linda says that this is what guides the way activities are planned. “The main thing is making a difference in someone’s day, giving them a sense of purpose… We focus on ability, not disability.”
Residents can join in many different group activities, like pub trivia, Coffee Club, barbecues in the courtyard, and “walk and talk” outings around the neighbourhood - all highlights that give residents a chance to stay active and connected. Residents can also enjoy quieter activities, like crocheting and knitting or word games. Most importantly, residents are given a choice. “We have activity conferences and we discuss our activities as well, so residents can nominate something to do or let me know [if] there's something that they don't like.”
That focus on independence is practical as well. Technology such as GPS watches and pendants help some residents continue with everyday routines safely. “Bill actually had [one] when he first came to Lemongrove, so he was able to maintain his independence by going shopping on his own… [it’s] very good in helping our residents to maintain their independence, which is really important,” Linda explains.
At Lemongrove Gardens, activities and hobbies give residents the chance to stay involved in the things they enjoy and to feel a sense of purpose. Families like Allison’s find reassurance in seeing their loved ones engaged, confident, and able to keep a rhythm of life that feels meaningful.
Peace of mind for families
For Allison, the greatest comfort has been seeing her mum happy and settled. “Being happy, Mum’s very happy in here… which takes a lot of pressure off of my sister and I, because we know she’s being cared for.”
That reassurance extends to her own visits, as she explains she never feels like an outsider. “The staff are terrific. If I’m here at morning-tea time or whatever, I’m always offered tea and coffee… we’re never rushed out the door at all. It’s always open. I’m very welcomed, like it’s part of an extended home for us.”
Her words capture what many residents and families feel at Lemongrove Gardens. “Love makes a home. Love and caring and support and knowing that people are there for you if you need them.”
A different story of aged care
Studies show thatmany older people and their families still worry about what aged care will mean for them. At Lemongrove Gardens, stories like Allison’s, Gwen's, Valerie’s, and Louise's show the reality of Anglicare’s residential aged care.
Gwen describes her life here with gratitude. “Oh, it is absolutely heaven. I love it… I can sit back now and think how lucky I am that I was able to be accepted into Lemongrove Gardens. I don’t have a worry in the world.”
Here, families have peace of mind, residents find friendship and purpose, and staff bring love and warmth to everyday care. It’s proof that residential aged care can be a place where residents feel loved, secure, connected and at home.
Explore the Anglicare difference
Visit Anglicare's residential aged care homes to see how support, comfort and community come together, and how the right guidance can help make it all feel possible.
Follow Anglicare on Instagram and Facebook to see daily life in our homes and what care with heart truly looks like.
Information Pack: Lemongrove Gardens
Residential aged care Penrith FAQs
What activities can residents take part in at Lemongrove Gardens?
There’s always something happening at Lemongrove Gardens, from pub trivia and Coffee Club to gardening, arts and crafts, and exercise.
How is independence supported?
Staff focus on what residents can do and encourage them to keep their hobbies and routines. For some, that might be tending to the garden, for others, it could be using GPS technology so they can go to the shop safely on their own.
Can families be involved as much as they want?
Absolutely. Families say they are kept up to date and always feel welcome when they visit. Many describe Lemongrove Gardens as an “extended home” where they feel part of the community, too.
Can residents personalise their rooms?
Yes. Residents are encouraged to bring their favourite furniture, photos, and keepsakes so their rooms feel familiar and comfortable.
How do I arrange a tour of Lemongrove Gardens residential aged care?
You can call Anglicare on 1300 111 278 or visit anglicare.org.au/lemongrove-gardens to book a tour. The team will show you around, answer your questions and help you get a feel for the home.
Don't miss the next article, subscribe below.
Inspired by the gospel of reconciliation in Jesus Christ, Anglicare's vision for reconciliation is a nation in which Australia's First Peoples are restored in dignity, respect, empowerment and opportunity.