Since opening five years ago, Nurse Next Door Melbourne Outer East has grown into a trusted provider, delivering premium in-home care to clients across the region. For local owner and Registered Nurse, Debbie Hill, the decision to start her own home care business stemmed from a deeply personal experience. As a teenager seeing her grandfather in hospital, she was struck by the thought that there must be a better way for people to live and age with dignity, in their own home and on their own terms.
Throughout her nursing career, Debbie saw firsthand the difference that community- based care could make. But it wasn’t until she launched Nurse Next Door Home Care Services that her dream of delivering meaningful, person-centred home care truly took shape, providing care that is Making Lives Better.
Today, Debbie’s team of nearly 65 passionate caregivers and nurses supports more than 80 clients across the region, delivering services that range from clinical care and medication reminders to companionship and joy-filled outings. Each interaction is underpinned by Nurse Next Door’s Happier Ageing philosophy of care which encourages clients to rediscover passions and experiences by asking one simple question: “What is it that you used to love doing that you no longer do?”
One such story that captures the spirit of this mission is that of Desi, a vibrant 95-year-old man and a local celebrity in the town of Belgrave. Known for his flamboyant wardrobe, walking stick, and daily café visits, Desi has become somewhat of a legend in the area. When his health began to decline, his close friend Pauline reached out to Nurse Next Door, hoping to find care that could match Desi’s spark for life. Since May 2023, the Melbourne Outer East team has provided Desi with daily support — from personal care, to walking beside him up and down the main street, where he soaks in the attention of locals who all seem to know his name.
Beyond the essentials, the caregivers have helped Desi stay connected to the community he loves. Whether it’s ensuring he enjoys his regular breakfasts at a local café, helping sort his eclectic wardrobe to raise funds for charity, or simply chatting about the old days, the care he receives is infused with genuine connection.
For Debbie and her Bold Pink Care team, moments like these are more than heartwarming, it’s their “why” and the reason they love doing what they do.
At Nurse Next Door Melbourne Outer East, ageing is something that is celebrated. It’s about rediscovering life’s pleasures, large and small. It’s about respect, community, and joy. And it’s about people like Desi, walking proudly down Belgrave’s main street, reminding everyone that growing older can still be vibrant, meaningful.
Nurse Next Door Home Care Services is available 24/7. If you or someone you love needs care, visit nursenextdoor.com.au to learn more or call our Care Services team anytime on 1300 600 247 to book a free Caring Consult.
