For over 65 years, BASScare, a not-for-profit organisation, has been a cornerstone of aged care in the Boroondara area of Melbourne, Australia. Founded in 1956 as the Canterbury Citizens Welfare Committee, BASScare is dedicated to enhancing the lives of older adults through a range of high-quality, person-centred services. From community support to residential care, BASScare prioritises dignity, independence and community connection for all its clients, regardless of financial, cultural, or religious background. This blog explores BASScare’s key offerings—Community Services, Home Services, Residential Aged Care, Assisted Living and Retirement Living—and how they serve the Boroondara region.
Community Services: Fostering Connection and Well-Being
BASScare’s Community Services are designed to keep older adults active, engaged and connected within Boroondara. Operating from community centres in Canterbury, Ashburton and North Balwyn, these services include:
- Social Support: Group Activities and programs include arts and crafts, movies, exercise classes, outings and more! As well as Allied Health services, hairdressing and podiatry.
- Meals on Wheels: Nutritious meals delivered to clients’ homes, with over 236,000 meals provided annually across Canterbury, Balwyn, North Balwyn, Ashburton, Hawthorn and Manningham.
- Dementia Day Programs: Specialised programs at Maranoa House in Canterbury and Elsie Salter House in Ashburton, offering engaging activities for those with memory loss and respite for caregivers. BASScare’s Younger Onset Dementia program is run out of Maranoa Club in Canterbury.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Over 260 volunteers support programs like Meals on Wheels, dementia services and social activities, fostering a vibrant community spirit.
These services help seniors stay connected and maintain their independence in the Boroondara area.
Home Services: Supporting Independence at Home
BASScare’s Home Services empower older Australians to live safely and comfortably in their own homes across Boroondara. Tailored to individual needs, these services include:
- Personal Care: Assistance with showering, dressing and grooming.
- Nursing Services: Medication reminders, wound care and coordination with medical practitioners.
- Home Maintenance: Cleaning, home modifications and assistive technology to ensure safety.
- Transport and Social Support: Help with shopping, appointments, or attending community events.
BASScare’s Home Care Packages and Commonwealth Home Support Program are delivered with a focus on choice, allowing clients in Boroondara to live life on their terms.
Residential Aged Care: A Home-Like Environment
For those requiring more intensive care, BASScare offers Residential Aged Care at Faversham House in Canterbury and Samarinda Lodge in Ashburton. These facilities provide:
- Person-Centred Care: Tailored support that respects individual routines and preferences.
- Lifestyle Programs: Activities include pet therapy, brain games and bus outings to promote mental and physical well-being.
- High-Quality Facilities: Modern rooms with Wi-Fi, king single beds, tranquil gardens and communal spaces such as dining and hairdressing salons.
- Dementia Care: Specialised support for residents with cognitive changes, ensuring dignity and comfort.
Residents in Boroondara benefit from a welcoming, home-like atmosphere supported by highly qualified staff.
Assisted Living: Tailored Support for Independence
BASScare’s Assisted Living community, Morgan Glen Iris, offers 1 and 2-bedroom apartments and bridges the gap between independent living and having support on hand. Located in Glen Iris, this community provides:
- Personalised Support: Help with daily tasks while encouraging independence.
- Community Engagement: Access to social activities and shared spaces to foster connections.
- Flexible Care Plans: Adjustable support as needs evolve, ensuring long-term comfort.
Morgan Glen Iris, named after BASScare’s founders Fred and Colleen Morgan, reflects the organisation’s commitment to quality support in a community-focused setting.
Retirement Living: Boutique Living at Hester Canterbury
Hester Canterbury offers luxurious Retirement Living in the heart of Boroondara. With only 34 apartments this boutique community in Canterbury features:
- Spacious Apartments: 2 and 3-bedroom apartments with study spaces, balcony and secure parking.
- Elegant Shared Spaces: Club lounge, gardens, cinema, gym and more!
- Vibrant Community: Opportunities for social engagement and connection with nature.
Hester Canterbury is ideal for over 55s seeking an independent lifestyle with access to BASScare’s broader support network in Boroondara.
Serving the Boroondara Community
BASScare proudly serves the City of Boroondara with a legacy of over six decades, BASScare reinvests all surplus funds into improving services, ensuring that the needs of older adults in these communities are met with excellence and compassion.
FAQs: How BASScare Can Help You or Your Loved Ones
Q2: How does BASScare support people with dementia?
Specialised dementia day programs at Maranoa House and Elsie Salter House provide engaging activities and caregiver respite, fostering well-being. BASScare support Younger Onset Dementia through their Maranoa Club in Canterbury.
Q3: What makes BASScare’s Residential Aged Care unique?
Facilities like Faversham House and Samarinda Lodge offer person-centred care, modern amenities and diverse activities in a home-like environment.
Q4: Can BASScare help with social isolation?
Yes, Community Services such as social support groups and Meals on Wheels promote connection and engagement across Boroondara.
Q5: What is Hester Canterbury and who is it for?
Hester Canterbury is a boutique Retirement Living community in Canterbury for seniors seeking independent living with access to a social community.
Q6: How can I get involved with BASScare’s community programs?
You can volunteer for programs like Meals on Wheels or contact BASScare to explore social activities at their community centres.
Connect with BASScare Today
Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or a loved one, BASScare offers comprehensive aged care solutions tailored to your needs in Boroondara. Contact BASScare at (03) 8809 4000 or email reception@basscare.org.au to learn more about their services or schedule a visit. Discover how BASScare can help you live with dignity, independence and community connection, Visit us today 👉 https://www.basscare.org.au/
- Dementia Villages in Australia: A Simple Guide for Families
Imagine your loved one living in a place that feels like a friendly neighbourhood, not a hospital ward. They could wander to a café, water pot plants in a sunny courtyard, or help cook dinner in a homely kitchen. That is… Read more: Dementia Villages in Australia: A Simple Guide for Families - Median Price of Aged Care Homes in Australia as of 2026: What Families Need to KnowThe median price of aged care homes in Australia as of 2026 charge for a Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD) is A$575,000. That number can feel daunting, especially with the 2026 aged care reforms and the new Non-Clinical Care Contribution. But it’s… Read more: Median Price of Aged Care Homes in Australia as of 2026: What Families Need to Know
- What Happens to Unspent Support at Home Package Funds?Will the savings in your Home Care Package simply disappear under Support at Home? It’s understandable to worry. If you’re asking what happens to…
- How Much is the Age Pension in Australia? A Complete GuideNearly 40% of Australians over 67 depend on the full Age Pension to cover their everyday costs. So it makes sense that the first question most people ask when planning for retirement is simple: how much is the age pension in… Read more: How Much is the Age Pension in Australia? A Complete Guide
- Government Backs Down on CHSP Merger with Support at HomeWhat if the biggest change to your home care was actually no change at all? The news that the Government backs down on CHSP merger with Support at…