The Gold Coast is home to 41 different residential aged care homes. A 2024 report by Caring Co analysed resident feedback and Australian Government Department of Health audits to determine which aged care homes are the best.
Here is an overview of seven of the best aged care homes in the Gold Coast region from the report, each of which has earned a 4-star Government star rating for their commitment to providing excellent care and quality of life for residents:
1. Bupa Runaway Bay Located in the suburb of Runaway Bay, stands out for its 5-star compliance and quality measures rating. The home features private rooms with ensuites and quality furnishings including adjustable beds and air conditioning. Residents enjoy access to lounge and dining areas in each section, landscaped courtyards, a sports bar, terrace café, private dining room, and hair salon.
Bupa Runaway Bay offers a secure memory support unit for residents with high-level dementia care needs. The facility also admits eligible government-supported residents through concessional beds.
2. Churches of Christ Care Lady Small Haven Aged Care Service located in Benowa, provides various accommodation options along with amenities like air-conditioned dining rooms, lounges, activity centers, an internal courtyard, covered patio, and garden gazebo. A dedicated wing for 14 residents, the Gardenia Wing, features its own lounge, dining area with kitchenette, and secure outdoor space with shade sails, raised garden beds, walking paths and seating.
The staff are dedicated to providing personalized care that adapts to each resident’s changing needs, with an emphasis on fostering a warm, community-oriented environment.
3. Churches of Christ Homesteads Aged Care Service is located high on a hill in Nerang with views of the Gold Coast hinterland. This 41-bed facility offers a peaceful setting surrounded by expansive green spaces. Residents live in cottages that have homestyle kitchens, dining rooms, lounges, laundry facilities and large outdoor verandahs with BBQ areas. Flooring is a mix of carpet and vinyl.
A specially designed cottage caters to the needs of residents with dementia, providing a secure lifestyle. The grounds feature well-maintained gardens and a central gazebo used for resident events. Homesteads Aged Care Service offers the ideal combination of a close-knit community feel and country-style living near the convenience of central Nerang.
4. Varsity Views Care Community in Varsity Lakes supports a meaningful lifestyle for residents with activities such as group exercise, wellness programs open to the local community, pet therapy, art therapy, singalongs and happy hour. Ample social opportunities are available, especially at the on-site café known as The Hub.
Residents’ living spaces are comfortable and include features like built-in wardrobes and lift access. The community offers specialized dementia care and on-site medical services including podiatry, physiotherapy and pain management. Situated close to lakefront walks and amenities, and only 15 minutes from Gold Coast Hospital, Varsity Views is conveniently located. All meals are dietician-approved and cooked on the premises.
5. Wisteria Lodge provides a range of accessible common areas for residents, such as a main lounge, dining area, private lounges adjoining each bedroom, landscaped gardens and small quiet sitting rooms. Active and engaged living is encouraged through customized leisure and lifestyle programs.
Spiritual support is offered via chaplaincy services and regular church services. A physiotherapist is on staff to provide tailored pain management programs for residents as needed. The amenities are designed to prioritize resident comfort, engagement and overall wellness.
6. Harbour Quays Residential Aged Care is a new facility in Biggera Waters, providing luxurious rooms. Residents can choose from single or double suites that each include a private ensuite and balcony. The home provides 24-hour nursing and individualized palliative care.
Diverse lifestyle activities are available including bus outings, hobby groups, guest speakers, and daily leisure options overseen by a dedicated lifestyle team. Amenities abound and include a heated pool, hair salon, beauty spa, Wi-Fi, movie theatre, lounge and dining areas, a piano lounge, landscaped gardens, private dining room, library, and computer access. Nutritious seasonal menus designed by dieticians cater to specific dietary requirements.
7. Calvary Robina, provides private ensuite rooms for 106 residents across six levels, purposefully designed to provide a warm homely atmosphere. Specialized dementia care is available.
Luxury amenities are a hallmark and include an on-site café, beauty salon, bar, theatre, and a rooftop garden.
While each of these homes listed received a 4-star ACQCS rating in the May 2024 reporting period, choosing an aged care home is ultimately a personal choice. Key considerations include care needs, preferred location and environment, social opportunities, budget, and the overall fit in terms of aligning with the individual’s values and priorities.Â
