Meet Keely: lifestyle assistant bringing heart to Seabrae

Behind every activity session, every quiet one-on-one moment and every small breakthrough at Seabrae Manor, there's a team of dedicated people making it happen. Keely is one of them. As a Lifestyle Assistant, Keely has been part of our community for just over a year now, and in that time she's made her mark in the most genuine way possible: by showing up, paying attention and truly caring about the people she works alongside each day.

A path shaped by passion Keely didn't come to aged care by accident. Before joining Seabrae, she worked across other areas of healthcare, with mental health as a particular focus. That passion led her to complete a postgraduate diploma in Mental Health and Neuroscience through the University of the Sunshine Coast, a course that weaves in components of aged-related mental health and dementia studies. "I found it fascinating," she says.

When she came to Seabrae for her student placement, something clicked. She fell in love with the residents, with the facility, and with the experience of aged care in a way she hadn't anticipated. A career change followed naturally.

What the role really looks like Most families see the lifestyle team leading group activities, and that's certainly a big part of it. But Keely is quick to point out that there's much more happening behind the scenes. "Families will often see us involved in group activities, but they may not realise how much one-on-one time we spend with residents as well," she explains. "Our goal is to enhance the wellbeing of every single resident each week. For residents who aren't comfortable joining group activities, we spend one-on-one time in meaningful engagement for them."

It's thoughtful, personalised work, and Keely clearly finds deep satisfaction in it. She particularly loves the moment when a resident tries something new, and the encouragement that flows from other residents when that happens.

"That marvel when someone gives something a go for the first time, and the way other residents cheer them on, it's very satisfying," she says.

A moment that stayed with her When asked about a favourite memory, Keely doesn't hesitate long before settling on one that quietly captures everything about why her work matters.

She spent time with a resident living with dementia, doing some gentle gardening together and listening to music. In that unhurried space, something opened up. The resident began recalling and sharing memories from earlier in her life.

It's a small moment in the context of a busy working week. But it's also exactly the kind of moment the whole role is built around.

A life well lived outside work Away from Seabrae, Keely keeps herself busy in the best possible way. She spends quality time with her family, walks her dogs, attends dance classes, plays music and tends her garden. She's also currently dabbling in watercolour painting, adding a new creative outlet to an already full and active life.

What makes Seabrae special For Keely, the answer is straightforward: it's the people, and the way they work together. "The collaboration and support between all the different teams is what makes this place special," she says. "We help each other to give the best we can to residents. We are all one big team."

Words to live by Keely closes with a quote she holds close, attributed to Christopher Robin: "You're braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think."

We think that says a lot about Keely too.

Call Seabrae Manor Home If you or someone you love is looking for a residential aged care place in the Rothwell area, we would love to hear from you. Call us on 07 3053 3333 or contact us to find out more.