Candlel ght Magazine
A publication of Christadelphian Aged Care
June 2015
Contents
What holds us together
03 04 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 14
hristadelphian Aged Care would not be the organisation it is without the dedication of every member of staff across all of our Homes.
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The woman who inspired it all CAC News
In May we celebrated International Nurses Day, which recognises the contribution nurses make to communities all around the world. Nurses such as Shahana Paggaddinnimath pictured on the front of this Candlelight Magazine are an integral part of CAC and I would like to thank them all for their care and hard work in what is a very demanding job. Nurses at Ashburn House enjoyed a delicious Indian feast cooked by one of our tireless nurses on the day.
Homes across the country New staff
Planting the seeds of hope A new place to call home Significant life moment Looking to the future Photo spread: Volunteer lunch Creating a community of care
Editor-in-Chief: Jane Burns
We also celebrated National Volunteers Week with a special lunch for all those who give up their time to help residents in all our facilities.
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Our staff and volunteers are the backbone of our Homes and we cannot thank them enough for helping give CAC the reputation of excellence of care it has in the community. We are excited to announce the creation of a central enquiries system. Ring 1800CHOMES (1800 246 637) and Helen will assist you on your journey with Christadelphian Homes. Our Customer Relations Officers are able to explain and guide you through the complexities of aged care and enable you to make informed decisions regarding placement, care and fee structures at our Homes. None of this would be possible without the blessing of our Heavenly Father, for whom we do all things. Graham Cavanagh-Downs CAC Chairman
Our Homes
Aged care explained
Editor and designer: Jenny Galbraith
Cover photo: Jane Burns
The Candlelight Magazine is published by Christadelphian Aged Care, a not-for-profit provider of aged care and retirement services in NSW and QLD. Š2015 Christadelphian Aged Care 1 Arab Rd, Padstow NSW 2211 Phone: (02) 9782 6080, E: admin@chomes.com.au 2
The woman who inspired it all N
o doubt residents, visitors and staff will have seen the above picture which is in all our facilities. Christadelphian Aged Care was formed in 1948 and the lady in the wheelchair (Betty Gullen) was our first resident and inspired the decision to purchase our first Home at Redmyre Rd, Strathfield NSW. The property was an old stately home from the mid 1800s complete with staff quarters and stables. Over the years the property was extensively modified as the care requirements of the residents changed until eventually in the late 1980s the property was no longer suitable for the modern care requirements of aged care residents. The building was converted into three modern apartments and the proceeds used to fund the development of the Southhaven Nursing Home at Padstow Heights. The nature and number of our buildings has changed over the years but our commitment to provide the best possible care to our residents and support to their families has not changed. We are
extremely proud of our staff who day in and day out provide for the needs of our residents, ably supported by our volunteers and pastoral care workers. The pace of change in aged care provision has accelerated since the government’s introduction of the “Living Longer Living Better” – however at the end of the day our residents and families still want a high level of personal care in a pleasant environment and that is what we as a Christianbased provider continually strive to achieve. We acknowledge we are not perfect – no organisation ever is – but we strive to uphold our values statement: “The desire to enrich the quality of life of the people in our care by nurturing them through compassion, service and comfortable living environment.” Our Mission statement and core Values can be found in prominent positions in all of our Homes and are constant reminders of what as an organisation we are aspiring to. Ross Peden Chief Executive Officer 3
CAC News
Improving facilities for residents C
asa Mia has now been completed internally and we are focusing our attention on the outside. The rear courtyard is currently being built and we envisage the gardens as being a peaceful retreat where families and residents can spend time together. The framework has gone up for the wisteria walk and a new covered area is coming together for the dementia garden. Riverside is coming towards the end of their renovations and finishing touches are being placed. If you intend to pay a visit you will have wonderful views of the river and surrounding bushland as the administration buildings have now gone. The Link building will provide access to Treetops and Riverside, with a lift servicing Riverside. The Link will be three levels and house a cafĂŠ, offices for the facility manager and other immediate staff. Renovations to the dementia area have commenced and innovative designs focused on providing quality resident lifestyle have been incorporated into the plans.
Residents and staff gathered at Chamberlain Gardens to honour our service men and women on Anzac Day. Pilot Hilton Mesic and retired Private Don Frullmuller conducted the service and Valley View Public School choir sang Lest We Forget and the national Anthem. 4
Maranatha is all but completed with the dementia wing being commissioned as we go to print. Lightfilled areas now dominate and there is plenty of room for all residents to roam as they will. Adam has been busy upgrading many of the garden areas, and Joe, as directed by Lynette, is busy putting up the finishing touches. It is lovely to sit on one of the comfy lounges by the fire enjoying a chat or take time to wonder at the many different scenes shown continuously in the foyer. You are invited to visit Maranatha on June 20 from 2pm where we will be conducting tours and answering all your questions relating to Independent Living and aged care. Members from the Australian Christadelphian Bible Mission team will speak on pastoral work in Asia.
The recreation room at Maranatha recently underwent a major refubishment, and is now set to become the hub of the Home. Along with comfy new couches and a dining area, there is also a pool table and room for other acitivites.
saturday
20 JunE ~ 2pm ~ th
Maranatha invites you to a social gathering to hear about the exciting preaching & pastoral work in Asia. Take a tour of the newly renovated Maranatha and hear about future development plans (God Willing). Thinking of moving in? All your questions will be answered by Christadelphian staff. God has given us opportunities to further His work & we thank you for your kind generosity in supporting the Bible Mission. Sausage Sizzle & Devonshire Tea Gold Coin Donation
Plus a collection for QLD ACBM
Maranatha aged care 1582 Anzac Ave, Kallangur | Ph: 3482 5333 5
Homes across the country Christadelphian Aged Care is pleased to have connections with Homes across the Australia, where there’s always something happening for the benefit of residents. Recently one of our Pastoral Carer team members, brother Peter Williamson, retired after five years from a very important role. Together with his wife Di they have provided great spiritual, emotional and practical support for our residents and we thank them both for their commitment to Bethsalem Care.
Bethsalem Care, SA ethsalem Care in Adelaide recently held their annual Autumn Fair in March. This day is always a treat for the Christadelphian and the local communities, but especially so for our residents who anticipate all the excitement as much as anybody. We were blessed with a delightful day, a large and enthusiastic crowd, and excited children enjoying the various kids’ activities.
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Besides the opportunity to showcase our home and grounds to the local community, to share the friendship and fellowship of good food and drinks, we raised just under $16,000, which will assist with the procurement of some new resident equipment. The petting zoo, from Old McDonald’s Farm, was a favourite for the little folk who joined us for the day and the display of vintage cars was a real hit. There were more than 25 stalls selling produce, second-hand items and food and drink, with support from Christadelphian ecclesias right across the city. There was a working restored sundial stationary engine which attracted a lot of attention from the chaps reminiscing about their past. Some young musicians came to entertain with their musical repertoire in the café area in our newly completed northern garden area, which provided a popular retreat from the hustle and bustle of the stalls. 6
Hermon Village, WA Hermon Village is located in the foothills of the Darling Scarp, Perth WA. There are a number of new and refurbished two-bedroom units available for sale. For more information please contact Chris Carder on chrisnrae@webshield.net.au or 0437 054 379. Monthly CWA activities for the residents and the more senior members of the Christadelphian community continue. A trip to AQUA, an underwater world included a lunch of fish and chips. Last month we thoroughly enjoyed a trip to Kings Park for an outdoor concert by the West Australian Symphony Orchestra. Friday Film Nights continue to be a hit and are held in the community centre. Olivet, Victoria This was the sixth accreditation round at Olivet but they still can’t get used to calling them “routine”. Each is a test of 44 standards that have to be assessed and met. The inspection is a very intense two-day period where carers in the Home have to transmit all their knowledge about Olivet and its residents to the three assessors over the twoday period. The aspects of the survey that were particularly scrutinised by the team this year were about how residents were engaged by carers and how the resident lifestyle was individualised and stimulated. As usual, the preparation was hectic and thorough and the outcome was a commendable pass of all the standards and a renewal of our accreditation for another three years. God willing, we’ll do it again in 2018.
New staff Yan
Y
an came to join the Christadelphian Homes family in January this year. She graduated from the university and worked in the hospital as a Registered Nurse since 1997. “My aged care journey started 12 years ago after I had my beautiful baby boy,” she said. “I previously worked as the facility manager in two different facilities and was excited to continue that journey with Christadelphian Homes at Ashburn House. Yan has a colourful shoe and handbag fetish. She loves catching up with friends over the weekend after doing a Zumba class or two. Her family are very precious, especially her son, Jeffrey, who is thoroughly enjoying his school life. Yan is passionate about aged people and hearing their life stories. “I have heard such interesting tales of everyday life and other adventures. We have no idea of the
journeys some of our residents have been on,” she said. Yan loves more than anything else to go home knowing that something she has done has been helpful and a benefit for someone.
Australia is probably the most beautiful country in the world.
Olivia
I
was born in a small mining town in Yorkshire called Barnsley, some of you may have heard of the town because of people such as Michael Parkinson the chat show host or Dickie Bird the cricket umpire. I have two grown-up children Oliver 22 years and James 19 years. In 2009 I decided a sea change was required and made the journey over from England to Australia. Quite honestly I still do not understand why the British sent the convicts over when in my opinion
My nursing career after qualifying as a Registered Nurse began in the hospital on an Acute General Elderly Medical Ward which also incorporated and Acute Stroke Unit. I felt like I had finally found my niche in life caring for elderly people, although something was missing. When I arrived in Australia I found the missing link and that was working in an aged care facility where relationships are developed to their fullest with residents and relatives, giving our elderly the best care and attention that we can. I originally resided and worked on the northern beaches when I first came over and relocated to the Central Coast in 2012, although I continued to commute to work in Sydney. In the few months that I have been at Chamberlain Gardens I have observed a wonderful team at work who strive to ensure that the residents needs are maintained and some of the most delightful residents and relatives. I would like to say thank you for the opportunity to be a part of this team and organisation.
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Planting the seeds of hope
F
ar more men are moving into Chamberlain Gardens and we have had to rethink many of our activity programs. We have done a lot of research on the internet and found interesting articles around potting tables. We downloaded some pictures and a volunteer offered to make the trolley. Ken put wheels on the trolley so it can be moved around, indoors if needed, so those unable to get outside easily can dig in the dirt and enjoy watching something they have planted grow. John loves to dabble in the earth. Most men and lots of women too, have dabbled with flower beds or vegetable patches or shrubberies. Shovels, spades and secutures get a lot of use. Many of the staff and volunteers bring in cuttings which the men enjoy potting while having a bit of a natter together. Once the cuttings get a little bigger and have been repotted, they are sold to staff and families. Some go into the garden where they are flourishing. Sharon has found this is an activity where no one can fail. The men become quite focused when potting the cuttings and interact with each other discussing the different plants and vegetables they
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used to plant and the creatures who would attempt to eat them as they grew. There is a calming interest as they dig, water and check their progress. They proudly escort visitors out to the garden to show their latest developments. Sharon Mesic Chamberlain Gardens Lifestyle Coordinator
A new place to call home The Men at Maranatha are looking for a new place to call “home”. The current Men’s Shed has outlived its usefulness. Gradually more equipment and hardware has filled the Shed to the point where the work was now being carried on outside on the lawn – very inconvenient as it slopes awkwardly. The men are working towards establishing a larger more practical Shed – the hub of the men’s world at Maranatha.
Gerry and his mates wish to continue to use the skills they have developed over the years and are putting together a plan for future projects. They have been in touch with the Australian Men’s Shed Association and plan to meet with them once they have progressed further with their plans. Watch this space for further developments!
The driving force behind finding a new “home” is Gerry. Gerry worked for the State Energy Commission in Perth, WA where he started as a carpenter. He worked his way to becoming the supervisor, where he was employed in areas such as sub stations, electrically generated power stations, making the poles and putting up the power lines. He has gained experience in a vast array of trades which has made life very interesting. When Gerry first came to Maranatha, he did so much work around the Village that many of the residents thought he was a paid member of staff. He once rejected the lino laid in one of the units. “No one lays vinyl like that,” he said, and the vinyl layer had to re-do the whole floor.
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Beginninglifea moment life Significant G
of care
wen grew up in the country. Her father purchased a bakery and life was good.
The best lessons Gwen remembers were those taught by Mr Walker, her primary school teacher. Gwen moved to Sydney where she spent seven years learning the rag trade. Mother thought all girls should be dress designers. Gwen had her sights on a totally different career though and she joined the Australian Women’s Army Service, where she worked in signals. Gwen didn’t believe all that nonsense in the media about Russian communism so she went to Russia to see for herself. “The Russians were just like us,” said Gwen. They were concerned with the same things we were concerned with such as feeding the family, keeping warm, education and the like.
“Anywhere I travelled; the women were always very friendly and were capable of holding their own.” Many had positions of authority and were given the respect whatever the situation. Gwen shared a flat in Sydney with her brother where they got up to lots of mischief. The most significant event in Gwen’s life was losing him during the war. Ted was a bomber pilot and was killed over Germany. Gwen was older than Ted by two years. Life for Gwen was forever changed as her mate was no longer coming home. Gwen, a bright and bubbly centenarian, shared some of her exploits during her long and productive Army/ Naval career. She has travelled extensively, met many wonderful people and continues to enjoy life. “The secret to long life is walking. Healthy walking is good for you. I have some problems in getting up and down but absolutely no problems walking,”she said.
Being there when it counts I
had the privilege of sitting with a gentleman for two hours as he said good-bye to his wife who had passed away five minutes before he arrived to visit her.
She looked like she was sleeping, so he talked about her, and their relationship over 62 years of marriage as we sat beside her. It was obvious he adored her although he made no bones about the fact that they had had their differences. He told of when they met, about the war-time and the fact that they had had no children. All his siblings and immediate family have passed away and now he felt that at 86-years-old there was little point in his continued existence. He has spent the past five years visiting his wife loyally and regularly at the Home and now he felt his life had no further meaning, no direction. 10
My heart went out to him in his grief and loneliness. His lip only trembled a few times and tears hovered, but never spilled over. I was amazed at his strength when his love was so apparent. He stroked her arm a few times while he was talking, but when he said goodbye to her, I witnessed a very private, intimate moment between them when he stroked her cheek and brushed her hair from her forehead as he looked at his wife for the last time ever. What a tender, poignant moment. What love after 62 years. What an honour for me to be there to see this, and what an inspiration to me – I want to be like that one day – committed and devoted to my spouse. I was fine while I was with him and tending to other upset staff, but cried all the way home in the car for him, and prayed for God to be with him and strengthen him. I admire him and his dedication so much. I wish there was more I could do to comfort him. I wish I could take away his pain.
Looking to the future compliance reporting. CAC was well-positioned to make the most of LLLB, having already commenced major refurbishment programs and is welcoming further change through the streamlining of the government’s compliance and regulatory activities. In light of the changing industry demands and expectations of future residents, particularly those of the “baby-boomers”, CAC is in the process of further expanding the footprint of its aged care facilities, particularly at our Southhaven and Maranatha sites. Also, the management team has responded to well considered feedback at our recent AGMs in tangible ways – e.g. CAC has commissioned a range of new affordable Independent Living Units to meet increased demand from the Brisbane market.
T
hey say time flies when you’re having fun and this has most certainly been the case at Christadelphian Aged Care. For the first eight months in the job as Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary, I’ve been fortunate to work with a talented, passionate Board and management team on many and varied opportunities and I’m very excited to be part of the expansion program ahead. Since joining CAC, staff have been most professional and courteous, demonstrating the true values and mission of CAC at a practical level. From speaking with those in the aged care industry and in the wider business community, it is apparent that CAC’s excellent reputation precedes itself. This is credit to the dedication of our staff and volunteers who work hard to provide the best possible environment and care for our residents and I’m honoured to be a part of the organisation. The Federal Government, having successfully introduced its Living Longer Living Better (LLLB) legislation in July 2014, is now looking for ways to streamline the aged care industry. The industry is in favour of advancing this, allowing operators to focus more attention on the delivery of care, rather than
CAC has many ideas to further advance the quality of its service to you, but we’re keen to hear from you as to how we can improve and provide better care to an ever increasing group of ageing Australians. We’re a month off closing the books for 2015 and have commenced the year-end audit process. Planning for the future is well underway, with a detailed 2016 budget currently being ironed out. The other big ‘development’ in recent months has been the arrival of baby Rupert into the world. Rupert Thiele Hall was born on March 12, 2015, weighing in at 3.1kgs to Cazz and I and is our first child. He’s already doubled in size and we think he’s most adorable (biased of course). He keep us both up some nights, but mostly fallen into a four-hour feeding cycle. He grins and smiles and recently started giggling, which has made his mummy most happy. Please do not hesitate to drop by my office, or give me a call to introduce yourself. God bless. Rob Hall Chief Financial Officer 11
Volunteer Lunch May 2015
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Creating a community of care My mother Evelyn had been a very independent, strong willed and capable women and the onset of dementia was gradual until my father’s passing in 2005. A year later she could no longer manage at home by herself and, after a couple of false starts, moved into the Hunters Hill Congregational Church Retirement Village very close to her family home and where my father had also been in residence until his passing. The Retirement Village only offered low care services and so it was very likely I would have to find an alternate high care facility for my mother at some time in the future. I employed Ryde Aged Care services for home visits while my mother was still at home and continued with these services after my mother moved to the Village to provide continuity, company and reassurance during her gradual decline. It was a chance meeting with one of those carers, Libby, that I became aware of the rebuilt Ashburn House as a potential residence for my mother. Libby 14
also worked at Ashburn House and gave a very strong recommendation of the care provided there. It wasn’t long later that it became clear my mother needed a higher level of care and the search began in earnest for such facilities. I knew through my contact at Ryde Aged Care that places were limited and most facilities had quite lengthy waiting lists. My wife and I contacted and visited eight different local facilities, often once at the agreed meeting/tour time and again at another time to see how the facility operated outside of the designated tour times. It became very clear from two visits to Ashburn House that it provided first class care in a state-ofthe-art aged care facility with wonderful staff. Barbara Walsh, Director of Nursing at the time, was the first point of telephone contact and she was most professional and so very understanding of my mother’s situation and needs. We arrived for the first visit with Barbara, only to be greeted, quite by chance, by the warm and comforting Irishman, Stephen Bradley. He took
the time to show us around the facility and we were most impressed not only with Stephen as ambassador but with all Ashburn had to offer. A second visit a week later confirmed my feeling that not only was Ashburn House a first-class facility, but the staff were the most warm and caring we had seen – this was definitely the type of care I would want for my mother. I put my mother’s name on the waiting list and, at the advice of Ryde Aged Care knowing the wait could be lengthy, called Barbara weekly to enquire as to progress on the waiting list. Despite my persistent calls, Barbara was always accommodating and understanding. Thankfully a room became available a few months later and I was delighted to be able to start planning Mum’s move to Ashburn House in November 2009. The day of the move was a extremely emotional one for me – I was very anxious about how my mother would adapt to her new surroundings given her advancing dementia, but also very busy with moving her, her clothes and furniture and other belongings. Also saying farewell to the great staff at the Congregational Church Retirement Village was difficult. At the first arrival at Ashburn House, a staff member was assigned and dedicated to looking after Mum for the day, showing her around her new home and keeping her occupied while my wife and I attended to her clothes and other belongings. In the end, the day could not have gone any smoother and I was extremely grateful to all those staff members who ensured that was the case. Mum adjusted very well to Ashburn House over the following few weeks – that is largely a testament to all the staff who assisted her and kept her calm, reassured and occupied with activities. In the ensuing five years, we have been most grateful for the warm and personal care that so many of the staff and volunteers provide for Evelyn. To us now, Ashburn is not just an aged cared facility for Mum but a community that we, her family, are also made to feel part of. We have got to know so many wonderful staff members and volunteers and think of a number of them as friends, exchanging experiences
“
Evelyn Dill-Macky (above); Evelyn and her friends on V-Day (left).
To us now, Ashburn is not just an aged cared facility for Mum but a community that we, her family, are also made to feel part of.
”
and stories with them. Not only do they provide wonderful care, they take time to greet us and talk to us and there is always a sister on hand to discuss Mum’s medical progress. We visit the Bronte Café with Mum every Saturday – what a wonderful café with great coffee, milkshakes and food in a delightful garden setting. We really enjoy our Saturday morning tea with Mum there. As our association goes into its sixth year, we are very thankful that we found Ashburn House and for all that it provides to my mother Evelyn – great care in an embracing community. 15
Ashburn House
A little bit of extra care A shburn House is a modern facility designed to create a living environment that not only encourages a healthy and active lifestyle, but one that feels like home. The facility is located in the Sydney northern suburb of Gladesville, close to Looking Glass Bay and Banjo Patterson Park.
Ashburn House incorporates the latest innovative design concepts and modern technologies to provide personalised care within a peaceful and secure environment. The facility has also implemented resource and energy efficient initiatives including solar hot water and rainwater storage for gardens. Accommodation Ashburn House offers a range of accommodation and care services to meet the various needs of those seeking assisted 16
living. All rooms are stylishly furnished and fitted with modern inclusions. Facilities Surrounded by landscaped gardens and well-appointed courtyards, there is plenty of space for residents to stroll the grounds or enjoy a barbecue with family and friends. Inside there is a choice of several comfortable lounge areas furnished with quality decor and modern fittings. Residents can choose to socialise with family or friends or take advantage of the numerous other amenities which include: • Theatre and function area • Cafe and outdoor dining area • A well stocked library • Hairdressing salon • Craft and exercise room Services To complement the 24-hour
nursing care at Ashburn House the entertainment and activities are designed to enhance the quality of life of all our residents and maximise their mental and physical well being. We understand that companionship is important to our residents and seek to offer activities that fulfill their social needs.
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I believe that to embark on a nursing vocation the staff need to have a certain caring and compassion, as they have been given the honour of caring and assisting people who are in the last journey of their lives and I thank you team at Ashburn House who have those attributes and have done a wonderful job. -Frank, Gladesville
Casa Mia
There’s no place like home Thank goodness for C Casa Mia – you are
asa Mia Aged Care is located close to the banks of Salt Pan Creek in a quiet neighbourhood in Padstow. The facility offers residents an exceptional level of care that comes from dedicated and caring staff and a commitment to enriching the lives of all our residents. Meaning “My House”, Casa Mia is a place residents are comfortable to call their home.
Professional nursing staff are on duty 24 hours a day to care for our residents in a supportive environment and encourage them to take advantage of all facilities and services so they can enjoy their life to the full at Casa Mia. Facilities Casa Mia opens out to an expansive lawn and garden with a covered entertainment area. Residents and their families can take advantage of the barbecue facilities or just enjoy the
outdoors with their loved ones in a corner of the garden. Services
To complement the 24-hour nursing care at Casa Mia the entertainment and activities are designed to enhance the quality of life of all our residents and maximise their mental and physical well being. We understand that companionship is important to our residents and seek to offer activities that fulfil their social needs. These include: • • • •
Regular bus outings Onsite hairdresser Entertainment and activity programs Multi-denominational church services
Residents are free to choose their own doctor or we can advise them of visiting doctors. Along with 24-hour nursing care, Casa Mia also offers a variety of allied health services.
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all amazing. We are always inspired by the caring, happy and dignified approach from all the staff. The love and attention given to all the residents is very special. We constantly sing the praises of Casa Mia and hope our words will ensure the staff realise that we think they are all angels. - Betty, Silverdale
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Chamberlain Gardens
Dedicated care on the Central Coast C Thank you for an
hamberlain Gardens Aged Care is located at Wyoming on the Central Coast. This modern facility backing onto Niagara Park Reserve is in a private and secure location and enjoys attractive views of the Australian bush. The facility has 24-hour professional nursing care and provides care services tailored to the specific needs of each resident. Facilities
This modern facility also features: • •
• • • 18
Landscaped gardens and courtyards Well-appointed lounges and quiet areas with modern decor A well-stocked library Hairdresser on site A chapel with multidenominational services
Services
To complement the 24-hour nursing care at Chamberlain Gardens the entertainment and activities are designed to enhance the quality of life of all our residents and maximise their mental and physical well being. We understand that companionship is important to our residents and seek to offer activities that fulfil their social needs. These include: • •
• •
Regular bus outings Diversional therapy, entertainment and activity programs Volunteer program Pastoral care services offering emotional and spiritual support to residents and their families.
Allied health services such as dental and podiatry visit regularly or as required.
“
extremely happy 14 days respite at your beautiful venue. Your staff work tirelessly to keep the residents well and happy – no mean feat. The atmosphere and the food was conducive to just settling down and being cared for, for a while – which is exactly what I needed. - Shirely, resident
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Maranatha Aged Care
Enjoy the golden years in Queensland M
aranatha is nestled among neatly maintained gardens in the northern Brisbane suburb of Kallangur in Queensland. The integrated care site hosts a 52 unit village and 91 bed Home. This design allows for an easy transition as the dependency needs of our residents change over time. Professional nursing staff are on duty 24 hours a day, and provide care services tailored to meet the needs of each individual resident with compassion and dignity. Facilities Along with the attractive gardens located within the village, Maranatha also has a productive orchard, vegetable and herb gardens and a delightful sensory garden. Many residents take the time to stroll, relax and enjoy the scents and colours, which help stimulate memories and senses. Outdoor functions such as barbecues and birthday parties
are regularly held in the screened rotundas, and the delicious aroma of freshly brewed coffee at the Sunflower Cafe draws a steady stream of residents and visitors to enjoy its light refreshments. Services Volunteers and pastoral carers provide companionship and help with many of the activities, which contributes to Maranatha’s friendly atmosphere. The entertainment and activities that complement the nursing care are designed to enhance the quality of life of all our residents and maximise their mental and physical well-being. These include: • • • •
Allied health services Hairdresser Bus outings with wheelchair access Multi-denominational church services
•
Diverse activity programs
We understand that companionship is important to our residents and seek to offer activities that fulfil their social needs.
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“I am very grateful for the numerous educational training sessions that I have been able to participate in and the opportunity to use this knowledge in helping the residents. It is great to work with the RAOs and Volunteer Coordinator who appreciate our help with the excellent activities they organise for the residents. - Pauline, Maranatha volunteer 19
Ridgeview
Mountain views in the Illawarra R
idgeview Aged Care is located at Albion Park in the Illawarra region. This modern facility is situated in the foothills of Budderoo National Park in a quiet residential community and enjoys attractive mountain views. The facility has 24-hour professional nursing care and provides services tailored to the specific needs of each resident with compassion and dignity. Facilities This modern facility also features: •
• • • • • • •
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Landscaped gardens and delightful courtyards with barbecue facilities Well-appointed lounges and quiet areas Private function area Well-stocked library Internet cafe In-house resident laundry Hairdresser onsite Chapel with multidenominational services
Services To complement the 24-hour nursing care at Ridgeview, the entertainment and activities are designed to enhance the quality of life of all of our residents and maximise their mental and physical well-being. We understand that companionship is important to our residents and seek to offer activities that fulfill their social needs. These include: • •
•
Regular bus outings that include wheelchair access Diversional therapy, entertainment and activity programs Volunteer program offering activities and social support for our residents
Allied health services such as dental and podiatry also visit regularly or as required.
“
In the almost three years Mum spent in her new home, she was always beautifully cared for by all the staff. From the nurses who went beyond the call of duty, to the kitchen providing lovely home cooked meals, the laundry staff, the cleaners, RAOs and physio aides. Dementia is not an easy condition but Ridgeview certainly made it easier for me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. - Lynne Savage, daughter
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Southhaven
Enjoy a peaceful life in a bush setting sadly I feel that Mum T has declined since reetops and Riverside (formerly Nursing Home and Hostel) emerge from the bushland of Salt Pan Reserve, on the banks of Salt Pan Creek in Padstow Heights. This stunning natural setting creates a living environment residents feel comfortable to call their home. Southhaven offers an extensive range of accommodation and care services to meet the various needs of those seeking assisted living. Treetops Cafe is an ideal place to enjoy the natural bush canopy where kookaburras chortle and galahs congregate. Communal areas are designed for indoor games and entertainment and the various lounges for residents to enjoy quiet times conversing with family and friends. Services Residents at Southhaven enjoy a
busy calendar of events designed to promote an active and healthy lifestyle and encourage social interaction.
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I would like to pass on my sincerest gratitude to the kind staff at Southhaven starting with Margaret who helped me through the initial maze of aged care respite. She was understanding to my situation with Mum and nothing was a bother. I was certainly appreciative of the care provided to Mum which allowed me a little respite knowing that once she returned home my primary carer responsibilities would recommence and they have with vigour, as
leaving Southhaven, to be honest I think she misses the routine, interactions and care.
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- Stacey, family
The Hostel is a fantastic place to work, staff work as a team and our manager Kim is always there to talk to and offer support. Residents are always treated with respect and duty of care is our number one priority. Our aim is to make the residents happy, comfortable and still in control of their decisions.
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- Stephanie, staff member
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Aged Care Changes
Living Longer, Living Better Government regulated aged care reforms became effective on July 1, 2014. Residents who enter into Christadelphian Aged Care will have a choice of paying a Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD), a Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP) or a combination of both. Residents have 28 days after entry to decide their choice of payment. CAC, as per Government requirements, has advertised on our website, the maximum amount to be charged for each group of rooms at each Home. RADs are completely negotiable. We suggest you compare similar aged care services within the locality suitable for your needs, and contact us to discuss your options.
Refundable Accomodation Payment (RAD) A refundable accommodation payment is an amount of money payable as an entry fee or rather, a purchase of your new Home. The balance of the RAD (after agreed deductions have been drawn down) will be refunded to the resident (or estate) upon the termination of the resident agreement. If any amounts are drawn down, the daily accommodation payment will be increased by an amount that compensates for the impact of receiving lower earnings due to the decreasing refundable accommodation payment balance.
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Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP)
Maximum Permissible Interest Rate (MPIR)
A daily accommodation payment is the amount calculated by converting the RAD into a daily charge using the maximum permissible interest rate (MPIR) that applied on the price agreement day, or rather, your daily hotel type services.
Interest rates are determined by the Australian Government and updated quarterly. Currently set at 6.36% (1/4/15 – 30/6/15). To calculate the DAP, multiply the RAD for a room by 6.36% and divide by 365. For example, a RAD of $300,000 becomes a DAP of $52.27 per day.
How to apply for a placement with CAC From July 1, 2014 the distinction between permanent High and Low Care was removed.
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An Aged Care Client Record (ACCR) is required by all those applying for care and accommodation. Aged Care Assessment teams can be contacted through most public hospitals or your General Practitioner.
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Complete a Request for a Combined Assets and Income Assessment, available from www.humanservices.gov.au, and lodge with Centrelink. (By visiting My Aged Care: www.myagedcare.gov.au/feeestimator/residential-care you will be able to complete and print your Residential Care
Fee Estimator. Your estimate will give you the basic daily fee, the means-tested care fee and the accommodation payment)
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Complete a CAC application form. These are available by calling any of our Homes or from our website www. chomes.com.au. Submit these documents, and if applicable, a copy of enduring power of attorney and/or guardianship documents, to the facility manager who will discuss your needs and current availability of accommodation.
Government accommodation supplement – Means Tested Care Fee The Government will continue to pay a supplement to CAC for residents who they have assessed as being eligible for an accommodation supplement. Eligibility for residents entering care after July 1, 2014 will be determined under new means testing arrangements involving a combined income and asset test. The Government will either pay the maximum accommodation High Dependency supplement or a part Care accommodation
supplement, depending on the resident’s assessed financial circumstances. This is currently set at $25,528.71 (indexed) per annum (including Income Tested Fee for Home Care) during the year or currently $61,268.92 (indexed) over a lifetime (including Income Tested Fee paid for Home Care). This is charged on top of Daily Accommodation Payment (DAP) and reset each financial year.
Respite and Special Care Units
receive residential respite care you will need an ACAT approval. Low-level and highlevel care categories continue to apply for approvals for residential respite care after July 1, 2014. Booked accommodation at CAC Homes is available for those seeking short term care.
Respite care is a form of support for carers. It gives people a break from their caring role. If the person who cares for you on a day-to-day basis needs a break, a short stay in an aged care home can be arranged for you. This is called ‘residential respite care’, and can happen on a planned or emergency basis. You will return home after your short stay in the aged care home. To
Special care units are designed to give residents the best quality of life supporting those with various forms of dementia in a safe and secure environment. 23
Photo by Michael Travers
Christadelphian Aged Care 1 Arab Rd, Padstow NSW 2211 Phone: (02) 9782 6080 Fax: 9782 6081 Accommodation enquiries: 1800 246 637 E: admin@chomes.com.au
Ashburn House
Casa Mia
20-34 Ashburn Place, Gladesville NSW 2111 Ph: (02) 8876 9200 Fax: (02) 8876 9210 E: admin@chomes.com.au
28 Alma Rd, Padstow NSW 2211 Ph: (02) 8707 6010 Fax: (02) 8707 6052 E: admin@chomes.com.au
Chamberlain Gardens
Maranatha
53-67 Chamberlain Rd, Wyoming NSW 2250 Ph: (02) 4329 8000 Fax: (02) 4329 8001 E: admin@chomes.com.au
1582 Anzac Ave, Kallangur QLD 4503 Ph: (07) 3482 5333 Fax: (07) 3886 3889 E: admin@chomes.com.au
Ridgeview Aged Care
Southhaven
95 Daintree Drive, Albion Park NSW 2527 Ph: (02) 4235 7600 Fax: (02) 4235 7650 E: admin@chomes.com.au
11 Queensbury Rd, Padstow Heights NSW 2211 (Treetops) Ph: (02) 9782 6010 Fax: (02) 9782 6011 (Riverside) Ph: (02) 9782 6030 Fax: (02) 9782 6031 E: admin@chomes.com.au
www.chomes.com.au