BluePrint (Dec 2022)

DECEMBER 2022

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It ain’t going to get me! A story about living with Dementia

Nick makes sure great taste never gets old at BlueCross

A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

On behalf of our Board of Directors, our Executive team, and the staff at BlueCross, I would like to extend our most sincere best wishes for the upcoming Festive Season.

As we close out another year, I am filled with great pride for our staff at the way they continue to show strength and resilience as the COVID challenges remain. We are also so grateful to our residents and clients who maintain such positivity and kindness in difficult circumstances.

In the latest edition of Blueprint, we are pleased to report on our continued efforts around workforce and the incredible innovative work our teams are doing to attract, recruit, effectively onboard, and retain a high-quality workforce to

support our residents and clients.

You will also learn about the newly formed Family Advocacy Support Team (FAST). This group works in conjunction with the BlueCross Client and Resident Advisory Committee (BCRAC) and consists of both staff and family members. It is designed to promote improved relationships between residents, families, carers and staff and actively seeks to engage a family perspective in the design and delivery of services.

We held our inaugural celebration of BlueCross volunteers on International Volunteers Day this year. It was such a wonderful event in which we heard heartfelt stories of why our volunteers help out at residences and the privilege they feel in doing so. The story has

many pictures which I am sure you will enjoy.

You will also get to read a number of resident stories and some insights into our BlueCross Chefs and why they love working in aged care as apposed to the hustle and bustle of a five-star restaurant. They have kindly passed on the recipe for a delicious Hainanese Chicken which is certainly worth a try.

As we enter the busy Christmas period filled with family, friends and good cheer, we hope you get the opportunity to have a joyful and happy Christmas with your loved ones and friends and that 2023 brings you all goodwill and lots of happiness.

All the best, Ingrid Harvey Chief Executive Officer

BlueCross Workforce and Recruitment Efforts

MEGAN GALBALLY, EXECUTIVE GENERAL MANAGER, PEOPLE, CULTURE AND SAFETY

With ongoing workforce challenges due to COVID-19 and numerous external pressures, BlueCross continues to work towards creating a permanent workforce for our residents and clients and providing meaningful solutions to keep staff engaged.

From a recruitment perspective, we are implementing a multifaceted approach which includes targeted Facebook campaigns, grass roots promotions as well as high volume recruitment assessment centres to enable a broader exposure of roles to candidates.

In addition, we are trying to reach prospective employees at the earliest stages of their careers by partnering with registered training organisations and TAFEs. Their support extends to helping us prepare to launch our revised Traineeship Program.

Once we appoint staff, it is then about a great onboarding experience. In this regard, we are incorporating buddy shifts and have recently introduced induction days to help all new starters be set up for success.

From a retention perspective, we are embarking on a wellbeing strategy for all staff, and we recently reinvigorated our staff attendance at external conferences and study support program, encouraging our employees to upskill through education. BlueCross is matching the investment of time and cost for staff to complete study relevant to their role.

The next horizon for the workforce strategy is investing in leadership development. This will see us building on our on-the-job coaching program to establish high performing and skilled teams that can be inspiring role models

for new and existing employees. Through combined and focussed efforts in the last quarter, the team has successfully recruited hundreds of new employees and vetted around 2000 applications. This is a significant workload and a commendable effort in which I want to extend my gratitude and thanks.

Workforce remains a challenge for the sector, and more broadly, but we are excited for the momentum and will continue to push to attract and retain the best staff possible for our residents and clients.

Family Advocacy Support Team (FAST)

The Family Advocacy Support Team (FAST) is designed to promote improved relationships between residents, families, carers and staff and actively seeks to engage a family perspective in the design of services. The committee consists of staff and family members and meets regularly.

The Family Advocacy Support Team has been established by BlueCross for the purpose of providing support and advice to

the Executive Leadership team and also to inform the BlueCross Client and Resident Advisory Committee on improvements to the provision of services and the family experience.

It’s important to BlueCross that we ensure that the experiences and perspectives of our residents, families, or representatives is included in corporate and clinical decision making.

The group is also keen to serve as a contact point for induction and orientation for family members whose loved ones are transitioning into and out of aged care.

If you are interested in joining one of our collaborative committees or have some feedback, please email feedback@bluecross.com.au

Infection Prevention and Control Training

At BlueCross we recently celebrated our new Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Lead graduates, after they completed the Aged Care Infection Prevention and Control Foundations course.

The IPC Leads are a valuable part of the Infection Prevention and Control team, assisting with onsite observation, assessing and reporting on prevention and control methods and processes as well as being heavily involved in site outbreak procedures.

We are pleased to see the expansion of this ever-important team and the growth and development of our staff. Congratulations to everyone for their achievement!

Double the woof at Scotchmans Creek

Pet therapy is a regular activity at Scotchmans Creek with a couple of friendly pooches popping in twice a week. These two dogs always spark a smile on the residents’ faces, but it’s all about the pats and cuddles.

Cooper the Golden Labrador pup comes in on Wednesdays and Charlie the Cavoodle laps it up on Fridays. Both dogs are friendly and affectionate, however four-year-old veteran Charlie is definitely the master.

Cooper and Charlie are much loved by the residents and really make the

most of all the attention showered upon them each and every week. Charlie loves to chase a ball around and can be seen on laps and beds looking for pats and treats.

These dogs have nuzzled their way into the hearts of Scotchmans Creek residents so much so that the residents baked some dog biscuits for Charlie and Cooper to enjoy.

Cooper and Charlie are part of the Scotchmans Creek family, and we think they’re simply pawsome.

It ain’t going to get me!

A STORY ABOUT LIVING WITH DEMENTIA.

93-year-old Barbara has been a resident at BlueCross Hansworth for just over 18 months.

Barbara moved in shortly after her Dementia diagnoses and is comfortable discussing how it feels for her living with the disease, as well as what it is like living in a residence with friends who have different types of Dementia.

“I try to sleep on my left side, not on my right. I notice that when I’m on my right, things change and I see things I know aren’t there. Sometimes I see red dots or hanging leaves, I tell them to go away and if they don’t go, I get mad and eventually it goes away,” shares Barbara.

“For me that’s what dementia is, something trying to take over me and I’m not going to let it!”

Barbara shows great confidence and resilience in living with her Dementia, and being a caring person, she also steps in when some of her friends are struggling with their disease.

“One of my friends here Mary, has Dementia and doesn’t always follow the guidance of the carers trying to help her. So the other day, I assisted when she wouldn’t take a seat when asked to. I told her ‘Mary go on, sit down

and then we can have a nice cup of tea’ and she did.”

Barbara recognises when her friends need help and knows it’s not like that all the time. She was very keen to clarify that despite Mary’s struggle with her Dementia, it doesn’t interrupt her competitive streak, because as soon as games are on, Mary is there, ready to win and she very often does.

Barbara believes that continuing to have fun with the group helps.

“When I was first diagnosed with Dementia I got a bit of a shock, it really hit me” she explained,

“I’m trying to hold it off, and as long as I’m alive, it ain’t going to get me. Not until I’m really old, maybe 106 like my Aunty.”

Cheers to you Barb!

A Dementia diagnosis can be scary and stressful. However at BlueCross, we provide the care needed to maintain quality of life while adjusting to the changes that come with the disease.

With a dedicated Dementia Specialist BlueCross strives to be at the forefront of Dementia care for our residents.

International Volunteers

Day – A Celebration of BlueCross Volunteers

We were delighted to host the inaugural International Volunteers Day lunch on 5th December, to show our gratitude to the dedicated BlueCross volunteers who give their time so generously for the benefit of our residents.

Held at the picturesque Malvern Golf Course, the event was inspiring and at times emotional as we heard from volunteers who expressed feelings of privilege from spending time with residents.

The event was MC’d by Chief Operating Officer, Melanie Mazzarolli and included a panel discussion, facilitated by BlueCross Lifestyle and Volunteer Manager

Catherine Gerhardt, with a selection of volunteers to find out what brought them to volunteering at our residences.

We were then presented with wonderful digital narratives of three residents, providing a snapshot into their lives and telling their story.

BlueCross CEO Ingrid Harvey spoke of the importance of our volunteers to the work that we do, as did BlueCross Chair Rob Dalton, a long time volunteer himself.

Westgarth volunteer, Helen said, “I loved the day and getting to

know BlueCross staff, volunteers and culture a little more. I feel more strongly attached to the organisation that has welcomed me as a Volunteer. The team who organised the day did wonderful work – please pass on my appreciation.”

International Volunteers Day is an opportunity to acknowledge, thank and shine a light on the important work of volunteers.

Thank you to all our BlueCross Volunteers! Your contribution is invaluable.

Biscuits and Bingo in Hansworth Respite Care

After a short stay in hospital for Victor, his son, Michael, decided that it would be beneficial for him to spend some time in Respite Care to aid his recovery.

Victor and his wife Sylvia, who also needed some care, have been spending the past few weeks at BlueCross Hansworth and it has genuinely surprised them how easily they have adjusted to life at the residence.

Victor and Sylvia met in 1963 when both of their families migrated from Malta, and since this time, they have been inseparable. It was clear that if Victor required Respite Care, then Sylvia would be joining him.

The couple had some trepidation about living in an Aged Care residence, but the transition

has been smooth and they are enjoying themselves at Hansworth and recovering well.

Victor and Sylvia have been meeting new people and joining in the singing group, Bingo sessions, Church services and craft activities. Victor is clearly comfortable in Respite Care and he’s impressed with one very important offering, the food.

“The food is so great here,” he gushes. And Sylvia agrees adding that “the staff here are really lovely too”.

It’s understandable to be worried about a big life change like moving into Aged Care and sometimes a few Respite stays can make all the difference for a smooth transition when the time is right.

Victor and Sylvia’s family have planned for the couple to return home where they will be supported by BlueCross Home Care services.

“We will be using Respite Care again,” said Michael

“It’s a real comfort knowing that Respite and potentially permanent residential Aged Care is something they can feel more relaxed about now, after this great experience at Hansworth”.

BlueCross offers Respite care at 31 of its residences across Victoria. Reach out to the Client Services team for more information or to make a booking.

Ph 1300 133 414

Play your cards right

BlueCross Grossard Court residents, Joan and Elaine, are the best of friends and have been for more than 15 years, even before they moved to the residential aged care home.

They first met at Palm Lake Resort in Phillip Island. “I lived there for 21 years and Joan was there for 15 years, so we’ve been friends and neighbours for a very long time,” explained Elaine.

Joan recalled that for many years when they lived at the resort, they used to play cards as Elaine lived just a few doors down.

“So, when Elaine moved out of the resort and into Grossard Court 12

months ago, I was pleased to be able to join her four months later.”

Now at Grossard Court the pair play cards each day without fail.

“We love it here, it’s just so easy and we don’t have to do any cleaning or cooking. We just sit back, relax and play cards,” says Elaine. Joan quickly agrees, “Oh yes, it’s just so lovely here. A real sense of community too, with the staff and the other residents”.

After cards, then it’s onto the next activities on offer with other residents in the community.

“I like the sing-alongs. I might make a mess of the songs, but I

do enjoy the singing,”said Elaine. “It’s always wonderful when the entertainers come and sing for us or play instruments. It really makes our day.”

Residence Manager Anne Main said that all the group activities at BlueCross Grossard Court are specifically designed for residents like Joan and Elaine to socialise, exercise and stay sharp.

“It is really important to us that we can facilitate friendships and fun, which all contribute to a very vibrant culture,” she said.

“We provide plenty of opportunity for residents to get to know each other and connect, as well as have their own space if they need it.”

That’s why the ladies play cards every day. It’s not just something to do. The memories made and bonds forged are a priceless gift at any age.

Fresh is best at Glengowrie!

Basu Khanal, or Baz as he is known, joined BlueCross three months ago as Chef Manager at BlueCross Glengowrie in Glenroy.

After more than 15 years working in well-known restaurants, Baz made the shift to spend more time with his family and satisfy his longterm desire to do good for the community.

“I decided it was time to use my skills and experience to help older people and make a difference to their days,” Baz said.

He heard about the role through former colleague and now Group

Chef Manager at BlueCross, Matt Brock. Baz and Matt worked together 15 years ago at popular eatery, Fratelli Paradiso in Sydney.

Baz explained that while working in Aged Care kitchens is very different from restaurants, unsurprisingly, residents still want to eat good food that is fresh and delicious.

“They don’t want to eat frozen dinners or food from a can, they want proper fresh food that tastes great and is healthy,” he said.

“I really enjoy going into the dining room and asking residents what they like about the food and what they want to eat next.”

Sometimes residents knock on the kitchen door and ask him for something without even looking at the menu.

“If I have the ingredients, I make it. If not, I will arrange for it to be made next time. That’s what it’s all about and what I enjoy most about working in aged care. It’s personal.”

Nick makes sure great taste never gets old at BlueCross

Prior to joining the BlueCross catering team, Nick had worked in restaurants for nearly twenty years. He made the move into Aged Care fifteen years ago and has spent most of that time at BlueCross, across a number of our residences.

“I was happy to make the move into Aged Care from restaurants because I wanted to give back to the community and support the wellbeing of older people,” Nick explained.

After decades of feeling the heat in kitchens, Nick relished the opportunity to change gears. “I have so much respect for older people.”

“During my first year at BlueCross I was nominated for the National Aged Care Chef Manager of the Year Award, and I won! It was a great surprise and a wonderful start to my career change,” Nick told us.

BlueCross always offers residents choice which is why there are daily meal specials on offer. Nick also makes sure he has a few simple dishes on hand when residents are looking for some comfort food, like an omelette or a toastie.

“I can honestly say that I am still using the same recipes and techniques at BlueCross as I would use in a fancy French restaurant.

Nick has built many friendships over the years both within his team and with residents. The friendships for him are always a highlight.

We’re thrilled to have Nick in the BlueCross kitchen serving delicious, fresh and healthy meals to our residents. Thank you Nick.

HAINANESE CHICKEN WITH CHILLI, GINGER AND RICE

Recipe | Serves 6

For Singapore National Day on 9 August, a very special and delicious lunch menu was served for our resident gastronomes!

Ingredients list Method

• Chicken thighs

• Chicken Stock/ poaching liquid

• Chilli ginger sauce

• Cucumber - sliced thin / julienne

• Coriander sprigswashed

• Shallots - thin sliced

600g 800 ml 50g 100g 1/2 bunch 1/2 bunch

• Poach chicken thighs in water gently for 30 minutes - remove pot from heat and allow chicken to rest in liquid until ready to serve

• Roughly chop coriander and mix together with cucumber and shallots

• Just prior to serving - remove

chicken from poaching liquid and brush the skin with sesame oil

• Serve the hot chicken thigh on a warm plate, drizzle with chilli ginger sauce and top with cucumber and chopped coriander and shallot salad. Serve with rice

BlueCross Grossard Court in Phillip Island celebrated its 15 year birthday

The residential aged care facility opened in 2007 and Personal Care Assistant Rhonda was one of four employees there from the start.

“I remember when I first started. We did orientation and had to sit on the floor in the Bahari Wing as there was no furniture yet,” she laughed.

“It has been such a rewarding career. Staff and management have always been friendly and supportive.

“And knowing you make a difference to the lives of the elderly and are appreciated is why I love working at Grossard Court.”

Sophie has also been working at Grossard Court since it opened. She reflects that sometimes just the quiet moments of sitting and talking with residents are often the most special.

“We have beautiful residents that are always providing me with so much laughter,” she said.

“The secret to choosing to stay at Grossard Court for 15 years is a combination of things such as a good work/life balance and flexibility.

“Plus the staff at Grossard Court are caring, fun and dedicated. It’s easy to work alongside people that want to make a difference.”

Anne Main, Residence Manager at Grossard Court wanted to ensure the milestone was appropriately celebrated.

“We had a wonderful lunch and in the afternoon distributed awards for the long service team members,” she said.

“It’s a privilege to work in this sector and Grossard Court is full of warm, caring and dedicated staff, and fantastic, clever and funny residents.”

Hot dogs and talking footy at Tarralla

Once a month, a group of residents from BlueCross Tarralla, share a meal together for the men’s takeaway lunch day. This lunch had a footy theme with hotdogs, chips and milkshakes. Men’s takeaway lunch day is all about fostering friendships and sharing conversations.

BlueCross Next Generation Ambassador in Care

Waylan Chisholm is a shining example of how younger people should be included in the conversation to improve care for the elderly.

Twenty-nine-year-old Waylan is the Residence Manager at BlueCross The Mews, and throws every ounce of enthusiasm, ambition and vision into leading his team to provide a safe, happy environment for residents.

In 2021, Waylan decided to apply and was accepted for an ambassadorship with Leading Age Services Australia (LASA) (now ACCPA) the single peak body for the sector.

Waylan sees the ambassadorship as an opportunity for likeminded and skilled people to meet and discuss the challenges within the sector and share knowledge and experience.

Waylan believes that the sector needs to invest in its people, to see the biggest change.

“By identifying and nurturing the talent and leadership capabilities of Enrolled Nurses, Registered Nurses and Clinical Care Coordinators, we can support people to stay in the sector and improve care,” he said. BlueCross offers a number of initiatives that make a difference to our frontline workforce, such as buddy and mentor programs, sponsored training and peer to peer recognition and awards to name a few.

“BlueCross is the only organisation I have ever worked in where having a passion is embraced, supported and an opportunity to make a difference is encouraged!” he said.

“It is a place of huge opportunity for me and there’s still more to be explored.”

The drive to care is a wonderful quality that we see across the business. It’s a valuable asset that makes a difference every day and it’s reassuring to know that people like Waylan are around to carry on and advocate to improve Aged Care for the future.

BlueCross Ashby turns 20!

October marked 20 years since the opening of BlueCross Ashby in Ashford Street Lower Templestowe, with residents, staff, BlueCross Executive and Board members and the local Mayor, Cr Michelle Kleinert, attending to mark the occasion.

BlueCross Ashby resident, Elizabeth, also known as Betty to residents and staff, has been at Ashby since just after it opened, 19 years ago.

Betty said that she was thrilled to be part of the event commemorating 20 years since it opened.

“Ashby is my home and I love living here with my friends,” she said. “The staff and residents are like family to me.”

The celebration included a history of the residence which is connected to the Heidelberg School of Artists, as well as an incredible cake made by Lifestyle Assistant Leoni, which was decorated with flowers handpicked from the Ashby garden.

BlueCross CEO Ingrid Harvey said the celebration was a true reflection of the wonderful community at Ashby.

“I grew up in Templestowe and I remember in particular the Ashby residence and the beautiful orchids always on display out front,” she said.

“The sense of community has endured over 20 years with the staff and residents being its heart and soul.

“I would sincerely like to thank everyone who came to commemorate this important event, especially Mayor Kleinert for taking the time to celebrate with us.”

Meet Ann, Residence Manager at BlueCross Ivanhoe

Working at BlueCross gives Ann the satisfaction that she is making a difference for residents, families and her team.

Every day she learns something new about the residents as they have countless stories to tell about their past and their experiences. It can be a genuinely inspiring place to be.

The community at Ivanhoe is multi-story but there are many ways of bringing people together

through activities like craft, yoga, excursions, and music sessions. The staff have every opportunity to get to know residents, and friendships among residents are always forged.

“It’s still homely and personal,” explains Ann. “I have discovered that it’s important to keep asking residents what they want or prefer. It’s their home and having the choice of what they do, eat, wear and where they go is important to help them feel at home each day.”

Helping residents feel comfortable and relaxed also helps them to feel safe, which is key to making it a home.

Ann

“It’s one of the largest Aged Care providers in Victoria and offers real career pathways,” she said.

“It supports helpful systems and processes, and as a manager of a bigger residence, I find this makes my job run smoother, giving me confidence to deliver great care.”

Ann is a shining example of an exceptional Aged Care Residence Manager who leaves her positive stamp on the BlueCross community everyday. Thank you Ann!

“I have been at BlueCross for eight years and I am not going anywhere.”

explains how BlueCross is a really great place to work.

Meet Aimee

She began at BlueCross Elly Kay, as a volunteer one or two days a week while studying for her diploma in community service.

Part of Aimee’s coursework was to secure a placement, so naturally she enquired about placement with BlueCross after her volunteering experience. This ultimately resulted in a full-time role as the Leisure and Lifestyle Coordinator.

Aimee is really enjoying her time at Elly Kay with one of the perks being that each day is different from the one before. Aimee enjoys meeting so many older people and hearing their stories.

“Age doesn’t matter. You can still talk about music or movies and find things in common as well as the amazing differences. I have to admit that I used to be a little intimidated by older people but I have realised that as long as you are kind they’ll just love you back.”

Aimee’s advice to anyone thinking about working in Aged Care is clear. “Definitely do it. Maybe even join as a volunteer first and get to know the people, that was really helpful to me. Also be prepared to have fun.”

Young students who choose to work in Aged Care are a special cohort but the rewards are paid out daily. Thank you Aimee, for choosing BlueCross. We couldn’t do it without you.

Meet Gina

She has been at BlueCross for four and a half years and sees real value in her work.

While she hasn’t always worked in Aged Care, Gina used to be a graphic designer, but made the switch with no regrets.

“It’s not about the money. For me it’s about the service and the knowledge that I am supporting older people. I believe the elderly deserve the highest respect, just like my parents, and that’s how I try to treat the residents here,” explains Gina.

“I want to help people and this work is in line with my values as each day I spend my time with so many lovely people.”

A new job is always a bit daunting as well as exciting, but it helps to have a strong and welcoming team around you to show you how to do things and even help with the specific care needs of residents.

“Having a mentor and buddy system makes a big difference when starting out in Aged Care or a new residence,” said Gina, which is a key part of the BlueCross induction process.

Thank you Gina for going above and beyond in the care of residents and supporting your team. Your work is valued and you are appreciated.

BlueCross The Gables celebrated Diwali

BlueCross

Grandparent’s Day at BlueCross Highgrove

BlueCross Highgrove recently celebrated Grandparent’s Day! Family members sent their special greetings through letters, videos, and photos. A fabulous afternoon tea was hosted along with the festivities.

The Gables celebrated Diwali, the festival of lights, with craft activities, an Indian dance performance and a sharing caring lunch. Thank you to all who participated in making it a wonderful day!

Father’s Day at Box Hill

Father’s Day at Box Hill was a brilliant day celebrated with many activities – from morning tea chats to a BBQ lunch and Peter on the Piano for Happy Hour.

Pet Therapy

Some people call it Pet Therapy, others just a little cuddle. No matter how you see it, animals can make great companions.

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