CareVillas Australia Wins the 2024 Future of Ageing Award for Property & Design
CareVillas Australia (CVA) is thrilled to announce its prestigious win at the 2024 Future of Ageing Awards, taking home the Property & Design Award for their groundbreaking Smart Care Villa. The event was held in Darling Harbour, on Thursday 29th August 2024. This accolade is a testament to the visionary work and dedication of the entire CareVillas team in reimagining housing solutions for aged care and independent living, particularly for individuals with specialised needs.
Founded just three years ago, CareVillas Australia has rapidly emerged as a leader in the aged care sector. Their first prototype, the "Costerfield House," was officially opened to the public in 2023, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of aged care living environments. The Smart Care Villa, which lies at the heart of this achievement, exemplifies CVA's mission to address critical gaps in the aged care system, as highlighted by the Royal Commission into Aged Care.
The Royal Commission's findings brought to light severe deficiencies in dignity, respect, choice, and quality of life within the aged care sector, particularly in dementia care and aging at home. In response, a small, voluntary community group from rural Victoria, Heathcote Dementia Alliance Co-designed CareVillas Australia to develop a innovative housing solution tailored specifically for people living with dementia. The result is a Smart Care Villa that harnesses the power of technology to enhance resident care and support.
CVA's success is underpinned by a collaborative effort from a dedicated group of high-level executive volunteers who serve as the founding and ongoing board members. Together, they have developed equitable and affordable, fit-for-purpose housing solutions designed to meet the needs of individuals requiring assistance to remain within their community.
Officially launched in 2023, CVA's housing portfolio includes two distinct villa designs:
1. Smart Care Villa: Crafted for independent living in both rural and urban locations, this design also suits respite tourism settings such as caravan parks and Airbnb properties
2. Stevens Villa: Tailored for community living, this design replicates a small community with care villas, private and shared gardens, and a communal space for socialisation and telehealth consultations. Residents are supported by the Bush Inspired Community Care (B.I.C.C) model, developed through a consortium including CareVillas Australia, Rural Care Australia, and Heathcote Dementia Alliance.
The first Smart Care Villa prototype laid the foundation for the meticulously designed Stevens Villas Community Cluster. These villas provide a homely environment that fosters independence while offering the necessary support. Each community is built to be nurturing and inclusive, ensuring residents can thrive in a safe and supportive setting. The villas are backed by extensive research and equipped with the latest supportive artificial intelligence, assistive technology, and design features.
By pioneering models like the Smart Care Villa, CVA is advancing dementia care through innovative design and technology. Their commitment to holistic support, research, and community inclusivity ensures that each resident enjoys a fulfilling and independent life. The Smart Care Villa’s unique design, which can be easily adapted to suit a range of disabilities and chronic illnesses, embodies CVA’s mission to provide equitable, affordable, and high-quality housing solutions for individuals with special living requirements.