A Sanctuary for Men with Dementia: Where Others Say No, Casey Says Yes

For men navigating the emotional toll of finding care for a father, brother, or mate with severe dementia, Casey Aged Care in Narre Warren, Victoria, offers rare relief. Most aged care homes reject individuals showing aggressive or unpredictable behaviour. But Casey, with its expanded Pebble Beach memory care wing, accepts the “hard cases”—including men who’ve shouted, lashed out, or struck others—behaviours often rooted in past trauma or fear.

Designed for 60 residents, with only 24 in Pebble Beach, Casey offers personalised care. For instance, a man who reacted violently was understood better once staff learned he’d worked as a prison warden in Malaysia. Staff, including veteran carer Deb Haley, focus on understanding men’s unique histories, not forcing routines. If a resident wants breakfast at 2 p.m., they make it.

Tech like Abi the robot and sensory projections help men reconnect with their identity and calm their aggression. Staff receive constant training, and the environment is designed to soothe rather than overwhelm.

In a time when aged care often fails complex male residents, Casey shows what's possible with empathy, flexibility, and the right tools. It’s a sanctuary for men once seen as “too difficult”—a place where they’re finally understood, accepted, and cared for.

HelloCare. (2025, April 23). From rejected to accepted: Inside Australia’s aged care sanctuary for the most challenging residents. https://hellocare.com.au/from-rejected-to-accepted-inside-australias-aged-care-sanctuary-for-the-most-challenging-residents/