Candlel ght
Magazine
A publication of Christadelphian Aged Care
Three new Homes join the family Film project touches hearts Wellness Centre opens at Ridgeview
April 2016
CONTENTS www.chomes.com.au
Welcoming our new residents For more than 65 years Christadelphian Aged Care has continued to provide the highest standard of care for the elderly in our community, and 2016 marks a significant milestone in the history of the organisation. With the purchase of Courtlands Village, Northcourt and Westcourt in western Sydney we now provide care to almost 1200 people across NSW and Queensland. Despite the rapid increase in the organisation's growth our Mission and Values have always remained the same, and we will continue to show the compassion of Christ in all our actions. We welcome our new residents to the CAC family, and encourage everyone to be open about any concerns they may have so we can create living environments that are safe, happy and healthy. We thank our Heavenly Father for His continued blessings that have enabled us to show His face to all those around us. Graham Cavanagh-Downs Chairman
Editor: Jenny Galbraith Photos: David Henry, Jenny
Galbraith, Garry Burns and CAC staff The Candlelight Magazine is published by Christadelphian Aged Care, a not-for-profit provider of aged care and retirement services in NSW and QLD. Š2016 Christadelphian Aged Care 1 Arab Rd, Padstow NSW 2211 Accommodation enquiries: 1800 246 637 E: admin@chomes.com.au
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April 2016
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CAC News
Three new Homes join the family New faces join the team
Beer brewing breaks stereotypes Sister cities around Australia
Photo spread
Wellness Centre a boost for residents
our homes
aged care guide
Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/christadelphianagedcare
Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/CACagedcare
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or the first time in around 30 years Christadelphian Aged Care can offer retirement options for people living in Sydney after the purchase of a large village in North Parramatta. Courtlands Village features 130 Independent Living Units set among beautiful gardens in Sydney's west. Within the same Village are a range of options for those who those who require more care, including 144 aged care beds. The organisation has also purchased a 39-bed aged care home only streets away from Courtlands, along with a further 10 Independent Living Units at Westmead. These are exciting acquisitions for us as it gives us representation in western Sydney and for the first time in around three decades we again have Independent Living units in Sydney. For more information and photos of our new Homes visit our website at www.chomes.com.au. Ross Peden Chief Executive Officer Christadelphian Aged Care
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CAC News
Stunning outdoor areas planned R
esidents and their families will be able to wander around a tranquil lagoon and rest in magnificently landscaped gardens under plans being developed for Maranatha Aged Care. The 33-bed extension of the nursing home in Kallangur, Queensland is due to be completed by July, and focus has now turned to designing an outdoor area that is both practical and beautiful. Significant changes have been made to the original plans for the nursing home extensions to give residents and staff more space. Phil Mansfield, Senior Manager, Project and Asset Management, said the communal areas in the Home had been doubled in size. "The original design of the lounge room, dining and outdoor area was a bit smaller, but now it's huge. We've also got a very large deck area that will encourage the residents and families to go outside," he said. The deck will be surrounded by glass gates and look out onto expansive gardens designed by award-winning landscape architects to complement a large lagoon out the front of the Home. "We want it to be a situation whereby residents, including independent living residents, can go out there with their families, walk along pathways and sit in the landscaped gardens," Phil said.
Down in NSW work on the link building at Southhaven Aged Care in Padstow is well underway. Residents and staff have been very patient during the building process, which when finished will link the Treetops wing with Riverside down the bottom. More car parking is also being constructed after the demolition of the house out the front. A new special care unit is also being constructed as part of the upgrades for residents with dementia. The area will feature a large garden area where residents can enjoy the outdoors in a safe and secure environment. The latest innovative designs are being utlised both in and outside the unit that aim to enrich the lives of those who require special care. A 1950s-style kitchen is planned for the unit to give the residents a sense of familiarity and practical activities to keep them busy. Light therapy will also be adopted with special fittings in every room to help reduce agitation and encourage a sense of calm among the residents. The project is set to be completed by the middle of the year, while the link building will be finished in September.
New online repair system up and running
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new online maintenance system that makes requesting and monitoring repair work easier has launched across all Christadelphian Aged Care sites.
"The facility manager has transparency because they can see where the jobs are up to or if they're on hold waiting for parts," she said.
Previously, if a staff member needed to lodge a maintenance request they wrote it in a folder that was inspected by the facility's maintenance officer, but now all issues can be put into the online system and their progress monitored.
"It just gives everyone a really good idea of what's going on within the facility."
Property manager Kate Hart said the system made it easier for staff to keep updated on the progress of requests.
The system also allows the organisation to identify trends and patterns across all the sites that will help maintenance teams understand underlying problems that need to be addressed, she said.
Film project touches hearts
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n innovative film project produced by Christadelphian Aged Care has shed light on the difference volunteers, nurses and other staff can make in the lives of older people when they enter residential care. The three short films follow the journey of a man who enters care after struggling to live alone as he grows older, as seen through the eyes of his daughter, a nurse and a volunteer. While he faces loneliness and uncertainty at the start of the films, the man soon rediscovers his passions through the help of those around him. The film's co-ordinator Jane Burns said the original motivation behind making the films was to create a better understanding of the aged care journey and the impact CAC could have on older people. "We wanted to explain to the Christadelphian community in particular more about who we are as an organisation and the type of care we provide for the elderly in our community," she said. "So I gathered a great team together and we brainstormed and came up with the trilogy." The team, including Matthew Inkster, David Henry, Garry Burns and Jenny Galbraith, created the films late last year, and they were screened at the Christadelphian Family Conference in January. "Essentially the most important people in our lives here at CAC are the residents, staff and volunteers, so that's who we showcased in our movies," Jane said. "It's about how you can continue to Live Life Your Way after entering care, and how Christ is shown through our compassion and desire to serve." Another longer video was also produced that includes interviews with staff explaining the ethos behind the organisation.
The films can be viewed on the CAC website at www.chomes.com.au.
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Three new Homes join the family Christadelphian Aged Care has welcomed Courtlands Village, Northcourt and Westcourt into the family after purchasing the sites earlier this year.
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he purchase of Courtlands Village in Sydney's west by Christadelphian Aged Care earlier this year marked a major milestone in the organisation's almost 70 year history. Courtlands Village in North Parramatta has 130 spacious apartments set among magnificent landscaped grounds and manicured gardens. Along with the self-care units the Village also features a range of different levels of care that allows for a smooth transition as residents' care needs change. CAC has also purchased Northcourt, which is a 39-bed nursing home located only a few streets away from Courtlands. The third acquisition is Westcourt, which is located in the nearby suburb of Westmead and features six two-bedroom villas and four two-bedroom self-care apartments. CAC chief executive Ross Peden said the organisation was privileged to take on the care and management of these three new Homes.
"With Sydney property prices so high providing such a village became difficult, so when the opportunity to purchase Courtlands came up the idea was pursued," Ross said. The Village was ideally located in the middle of Sydney, and its beautiful gardens and ponds complemented the organisation's six other Homes perfectly, he said. Jane Burns, Senior Manager, Retirement Villages, said she had already been made to feel very welcome by the Courtlands community. "I feel very excited about coming to Courtlands," she said. "It's a beautiful place and the residents, staff and families have all been very welcoming. "The facilities themselves are impressive and as I continue to get to know everyone involved in the community I've come to appreciate the unique culture of Courtlands," Jane said.
"After meeting with the staff and residents, and touring the sites I have been very impressed with the quality of care, sense of community and high standard of facilities at all three locations."
"After meeting with the staff and residents, and touring the sites I have been very impressed with the quality of care, sense of community and high standard of facilities at all three locations," he said. "We are looking forward to continuing to provide the best possible environment for everyone who lives and works at our new Homes." Christadelphians in Sydney have long expressed their wish for a Village similar to other Christadelphian operated villages such as Olivet in Melbourne, Maranatha in Queensland and Bethsalem in South Australia.
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One of the first projects to be undertaken at the Village is to create an oasis on the verandah of the Village Centre. New plants, lighting and outdoor furniture is set to transform the area into an attractive space to relax. "The design will encourage people to sit out there maybe in the cool of the afternoon, have a coffee and enjoy time with friends and family," Jane said.
Courtlands Village Courtlands Village features self-care apartments surrounded by lush landscaping, ponds and gardens. Within the elegant and spacious Village Centre residents can enjoy the library with an internet kiosk, hair salon, a large recreation space with a full-sized billiards table, a chapel and art and craft rooms. There is also a bar which is open for happy hour on Friday evenings. The centre overlooks the Village Green, where there are barbecue facilities and outdoor picnic tables covered by shade sails. The Terrace Also located within the Village are The Terrace apartments, which are designed to enable residents to maintain their individuality in their own home. Operating under an Ageing-in-Place philosophy, residents are assisted to maintain their independence.
The Vista This 46-bed Home in the Village offers 24-hour nursing care in a secure environment, with many bedrooms overlooking Lake Parramatta Reserve. The Grove Residents with dementia are provided with a high level of care within the The Grove, and are helped to integrate into the Village in a practical way. The Grange For those after a premium aged care experience The Grange offers a high degree of quality, elegance, comfort and security within the Village grounds. Northcourt Northcourt is just streets away from Courtlands and has 39 beds over 22 rooms, with nine single rooms and 13 shared rooms. Westcourt Westcourt in Westmead features six two-bedroom villas and four two-bedroom apartments.
For more information and photos of Courtlands Village, Northcourt and Westcourt please visit our website at chomes.com.au.
Gwen's mission to welcome all "I'm known as the card lady here. We make cards for the whole village. There's quite a few people who haven't got family, and they like to have a card in the letterbox," she said. She has volunteered in many aspects of the Village for two decades, including as president of the Social Club for 13 years. Gwen and her husband Neville were also part of the Merrymakers Harmonica Band, which performed more than 500 shows at retirement villages and nursing homes over eight years. Her commitment to the community was recognised this year when she was named Senior Citizen of the Year by Parramatta Council.
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hen Gwen Spencer first moved into Courtlands Village with her husband 20 years ago she felt slightly lost.
She soon found her feet and was instrumental in creating the strong sense of community residents experience in the Village today. Gwen was determined that everyone who arrived at Courtlands feel welcomed, so she created a club that meets every week to create cards for new residents, along with birthday and get-well cards.
"I got a letter from the Lord Mayor asking me to come down and I nearly died," Gwen said. She continues to play an active part of Village life, along with so many others that make up the Courtlands community. "I know a lot people here now, and we all try and be friendly. We're not in each others pockets, we have our privacy, but if anyone needs you you're there to go and see them," Gwen said. "There's a lot of good people here."
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New faces join the team
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ith nine different sites across NSW and Queensland keeping on top of the maintenance of all Christadelphian Aged Care Homes is no easy task, but the organisation's new Property Manager is up to the challenge. Kate Hart started in the role in January and looks after the day-to-day maintenance that goes on at each facility. "Obviously there are so many different areas within the facilities. You've got kitchens, laundries, resident rooms and everything from nurse calls to air conditioning systems so it's a pretty huge task," she said.
"It can be everything from checking hardware on doors, fittings and taps, to make sure we're not getting so many things brought to our attention, which is reactive maintenance. "It's about keeping the place 100 per cent up to scratch and in line with the expectations of the residents. It is their home, and you don't want things in your home going into disrepair, you want to keep on top of it all," Kate said. She has also been part of rolling out the new online maintenance system that will help the organisation better manage repair requests.
"It's about keeping the place 100 per cent up to scratch and in line with the expectations of the residents. It is their home and you don't want things in your home going into disrepair."
Kate has a background in commercial real estate where she managed property maintenance for large commercial buildings.
Kate works closely with Phil Mansfield, Senior Manger, Project and Asset Management, on managing the new upgrades and extensions going on over all the sites.
Along with monitoring all the maintenance across all facilities, in her new role she is developing new preventative programs to reduce the number of breakdowns.
She has managed a number of projects so far, such as the refit of the upstairs office space at Ashburn House in Gladesville, and the demolition of a house at Southhaven in Padstow to make way for more parking for the Home.
"It's about coming in and servicing equipment and making sure everything is functioning so you're less likely to have breakdowns," Kate said.
When she's not at work Kate loves catching up with friends, and spends a lot of time on the Hawkesbury River wakeboarding and splashing about in the water.
New Marketing and Communications Manager
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hey say everyone has a story, and it's the incredible lives experienced by so many of CAC's residents that the new Marketing and Communications Manager wants to share with the wider community.
Jenny has worked as a journalist for more than 10 years and is passionate about highlighting the excellent physical, emotional and spiritual care CAC provides, as well as the stories of our residents and staff.
Jenny Galbraith started in the role in April, and has taken over some of the many tasks previously looked after by Jane Burns, who has now been appointed Senior Manager, Retirement Villages.
After working for CAC in a freelance capacity for many years, she has now taken on this fulltime role and will look after the Candlelight Magazine, social media, website updates and other marketing projects.
Inspired by care Maranatha Aged Care's gardener has become passionate creating interative spaces for residents with dementia.
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young labourer turned gardener at Maranatha Aged Care has been so inspired by working on sensory areas at the Kallangur nursing home he has enrolled in university to study dementia care. Adam Farrelly, 23, first became involved with the nursing home as a contract labourer during renovations, but after experiencing the sense of community he quickly joined the team and became a full-time groundsperson. He redesigned his first garden in the dementia unit of the home, and became interested in the different elements he could include that could encourage residents to enjoy outdoor activities.
"They can come out with a volunteer and carer and pot plants, propagate and just fiddle around," Adam said. His work on the gardens and interaction with the staff and residents around the Home has inspired him to pursue further training in dementia care. "They are all such special people. They've played such a massive role in the generations before us, and it's so sad what's happened to them so I want to do something amazing for them," Adam said. "They can wander around and they've got activities, but it's more about giving them a sense of independence to go out and do whatever they like outside."
"They've played such a massive role in the generations before us, and it's so sad what's happened to them so I want to do something amazing for them."
“I formed passion for it. There used to be sensory garden there but we turned it into a tropical paradise, and I wanted to make it a little different from what it used to be and become an interactive garden," Adam said. "It’s proven quite beneficial for residents and they love it." He has installed raised garden beds that are wheelchair accessible along with a potting bench.
He has enrolled in a Bachelor of Dementia Care at university which he begins in June "I just wanted to get a better understanding of it all. I don't want to be a nurse, but my dream is to have my own business and build sensory gardens not just for dementia but also autism as well," Adam said. In the meantime he has big plans for more dementiaspecific gardens around Maranatha.
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BEER T
he men at Casa Mia Aged Care are helping change the way people think about nursing homes after successfully brewing a batch of beer recently. The Men's Club have participated in a number of activities over the last few months, such as building and painting a wooden model Christmas tree for the Home's festive decorations, and holding regular movie afternoons. But it is their beer brewing project that has been the most enjoyable for many residents, who loved discussing ways to create the best taste. A DIY home brewing kit was obtained from a resourceful Diversional Therapist, complete with all the required equipment and instructions. In late December the Men's Club convened for the first stage of the brewing. The men looked on as the brew can was emptied into the fermenter and helped maintain the correct temperature by adding cold and hot water as needed. Resident Activity Officer Carlton added the yeast and the brew was left to ferment for a week. The guys regularly reminded the RAOs to check the progress of the brew using the hydrometer and eagerly observed its changing colour and scent. Finally, on New Year's Day the beer had changed to a nice amber hue and the time for bottling had begun. The Men’s Club reconvened and the beer was tapped into 10 bottles and carbon drops were added.
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Beer brewing breaking the stereotypes
Finally, on New Year's Day, the beer had changed to a nice amber hue and the time for bottling had begun.
Two weeks later the beer was ready and the men excitedly tried their home-brew. While it was stronger than they were used to the beer was described as "beautiful" and the project deemed a success.
Four generations of family Cecil Salmon lives in Ashburn House surrounded by photos of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but there's nothing like a visit from family. His newest great-grandchild, Ivy Rose, was born in October last year, and regularly visits Pop at the Gladesville Home with her mum Bec and grandma Beverly. Cecil has lived at Ashburn since it opened, and will celebrate his 95th birthday next month. He eagerly awaited the birth of Ivy Rose, and pinned a photo of her in the womb on his wall. Cecil now has a whole album of photographs of her he keeps near his armchair in his room so he can show visitors. However, Ivy Rose has stiff competition as she is one of more than 30 great-grandchildren. Cecil admits one of them, Emma, is known to be his "pet". "She took a liking to me. She was here the other day and I hadn't seen her since Christmas, and she came over and cuddled me for a good half-an-hour," he said. "I said 'did you miss me?', and she said 'yes'."
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Sister sites Once completed Olivet will have capacity, God willing, to accomodate 135 residents in residential care, 20 clients for day respite and 50 retirement village/Independent Living Units. The Willows wing of Olivet was designed and built in the early '80s with shared accommodation and bathroom facilities.
Facelift for Olivet O
livet has had a facelift to the front of the buildings with the completion of a new reception and administration wing. It is spacious and inviting and as the Home grows in size will accommodate an increasing number of families and visitors to Olivet seeking quality care and accommodation in the outer east area of Melbourne.
We have renovated parts of this building, however it is planned that 20 residents from this area will be accommodated in the new development with The Willows wing to be repurposed to focus on restorative care. Once completed, Olivet will have capacity, God willing, to accommodate 135 residents in residential care, 20 clients for day respite and 50 retirement village/Independent Living Units. From our humble beginnings 55 years ago, we are blessed to have this capacity to care for our Christadelphian and greater communities. Melbourne will also be hosting a national conference of Christadelphian care facilities on May 13-14 at Olivet. Our theme is Consumer Directed Care and we hope to have board members and management team delegates from most states attending.
In the recent March announcement of the Aged Care Approvals round, Olivet was blessed with a successful application for an extra 40 funded beds. Plans for a two-story 60 bed development on land purchased over a number of years adjacent to Olivet along Rupert St is currently with the local council and it is hoped that signoff will occur soon. This wing will overlook the heritage Mullum Mullum valley.
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erman Village in Perth, Western Australia is a small community that offers peaceful retirement living in the foothills of the Darling Scarp.
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ethsalem Care has been providing high-quality aged care in the Adelaide Hills for more than 60 years, and is widely recognised in the local and Christadelphian communities. The organisation provides care for the elderly in our Home who require 24-hour support. Alongside the residential care there is also boutique retirement living in GreenBriars Village, which features a secure, well-maintained and peaceful environment with the peace of mind of aged care support nearby. Volunteers and Pastoral Carers regularly attend both sites to provide emotional and spiritual support for all the residents. For a tour of the site or more information please contact us on (08) 8321 0300 or visit our website: bethsalemcare.com.au.
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The community was established by the Christadelphian Welfare Association after a need arose for affordable retirement living for the elderly primarily within Christadelphia. The Village began with 10 units and has now doubled in size, with more units planned. Herman Village also features a community centre, which has become a hub of activity where film nights, school children's concerts, morning teas and board game challenges are held regularly. Bible class and readings are held on the first Tuesday of the month and all are welcome to attend. For more information contact Chris Carder on 0437 054 370 or email chrisnrae@webshield.net.au.
Memories that never fade
Bill Henderson saw the aftermath of the Hiroshima bomb first-hand, and helped bring prisoners-of-war back from Singapore.
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very Anzac Day Bill Henderson removes his war medals from his drawer and reflects on the time he served in the Australian navy more than 70 years ago. The Southhaven resident signed up in 1943 when he was 17, and after training in Melbourne he boarded HMAS Manoora and headed up to New Guinea and the southpacific. His ship was mostly in charge of transporting soldiers to shore to strengthen Australian forces, and so spent his time ferrying the men from the ship to land. "We did amphibious landings on the coast taking soldiers to shore, and getting out of there as quickly as we could because it was pretty dangerous," Bill said. The ships performed a number of landings around New Guinea, the Philippines and Borneo, and had to continually look out for "suicide" aircraft which dived at the boats. "They came for you to try and knock you out of the war. They were quite prepared to do that, they not only had bombs and guns they were diving straight at the ship," Bill said. Towards the end of the war he was part of a team that went ashore at Hiroshima a few weeks after US dropped the atom bomb. "It was completely devastated, but you wouldn't know it had been bombed now. It was quite a staggering sight. It destroyed most of the buildings above ground," Bill said. After the war was over he continued to serve by going up to Singapore to bring prisoners-of-war back to Australia.
Bill's wife Annette was in the airforce, and they met after the war.
"You've never seen anything like them. Men that were boys before had become old men," Bill said. "We had to take them on a trip, a bit of a cruise, after the war because they were too crook to show off to anyone. "They were skeletons. They'd been building the Burma Railway. It was a terrible ordeal, they lived on nothing, they were fed nothing and they were working them to death. "People thought they looked crook when they saw them, but we had fed them up with what we had on our ship. You'd have to experience it to realise the enormity of it," he said. Bill believes commemorating Anzac Day is a way of remembering your roots. "You belong with what you began with, your forebears. You've got to belong to something," he said.
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The Heritage Car Club at Chamberlain Gardens
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to Casa Mia
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Wellness Centre a boost for Ridgeview residents The Wellness Team at Ridgeview Aged Care now have a place to call home.
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orget bingo and bowls – residents at Ridgeview Aged Care are scoring goals at a new Wellness Centre that recently opened after a major fundraising effort by staff. The space on the upper floor is used by their team of physiotherapists, registered nurses and other staff to provide massages, heat pack therapy and develop exercise programs for the residents. Facility manager Michelle Murphy said the centre had been so successful some respite residents went home having achieved better rehabilitation goals than they had in hospital.
I saw a resident in the halls and I said, 'you look very sporty,' and she said 'I've just been to the gym!' “It’s very much about maintaining their independence. We’ve got exercise bands to increase strength and flexibility, there’s hand weights, exercise balls and witches hats so residents can practice mobilising their frames around them,” she said. “If somebody has had a fall we can develop an individualised exercise program, or if they are having difficulty putting their shoes on we can organise a way to do that.” The residents have embraced the new Wellness Centre, which was opened after staff raised $2500 at their Family Day last year.
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“It’s actually quite exciting. I saw a resident in the halls and I said, ‘you look very sporty’, and she said ‘I’ve just been to the gym!’,” Ms Murphy said.
The Wellness Centre is located upstairs in Sapphire in the space where the internet café and Sports Lounge was located.
“We want to expand the services we can provide to the residents. If they maintain their independence they have a better quality of life and that’s what it’s all about.”
The internet café is now in the same corridor as the Kiosk in Sapphire, and the Sports Lounge is now located upstairs near the pool table.
Comfort in times of need PASTORAL
CARE
Sometimes all it takes is a ready ear and an open heart to comfort those around us.
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s a pastoral care volunteer at a small aged care home, I was passing Janet’s (not her real name) room and noticed that she was sitting on the side of the neatly made bed with her shoulders slumped forward. She was crying and talking to herself. Janet was in her late 60s and at the time had moderate dementia and depression. After knocking on the door and introducing myself she allowed me to sit beside her. I reached for the box of tissues and then gently placed my hand on hers. Janet was crying and repeating over and over again that she wanted to go down the road so she could walk out in front of a bus and die. I was only able to sit and listen for the first five minutes without interrupting. Then, when she stopped for a moment, I was able to validate what she was saying.
I tried to get her to talk about her grandchildren and the good times that they must have had together, as there were photos of the grandchildren on the wall. There was no response – positive or negative. I then went and picked up a large soft toy dog that was on the floor. While stroking it, I asked, “Janet, did you ever have a pet dog?” “Yes” – breakthrough! I got her talking about her two dogs – their breed, colour, names, where they slept and tricks they did. She also mentioned that she enjoyed taking them for walks with her father. Janet had now stopped crying and started to settle a little. We now had a conversation about her father. It became evident that she thought the world of him. We talked about the different towns they moved to because of his job, and the good time they had spent together.
The crying and the negative thoughts had now dissipated, and there were bursts of laughter.
I then asked, “what is making you feel so very sad?”. There was no explanation – just a continuation of the crying and muttering.
The crying and the negative thoughts had now dissipated and there were bursts of laughter. When I thought she was ready, with her permission, I was able to help her lie down on the bed. I put on her favourite CD and suggested she concentrate on her breathing. Janet became relaxed and was then happy for me to leave. This visit lasted 40 minutes – leaving me for the moment rather emotionally exhausted - but happy and contented within myself that I had been able to assist Janet through this episode. So that the care staff could understand more about Janet’s emotional turmoil, I reported her expression of her wish for life-termination to the nurse in charge. Written by a volunteer Pastoral Carer
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Ashburn House (Gladesville)
That special touch of 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 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: • • • • •
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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.
“
I would like to thank the staff at Ashburn House for the
professional and dedicated care of my husband during his two-week respite. It was a pleasure to visit Ashburn House
and meet with staff, who always had a cheerful disposition and were very helpful to me, which gave me confidence knowing that my husband was receiving excellent care. – Gloria Ingram
Casa Mia (Padstow Heights)
There’s no place like home There's no place like home C
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.
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.
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
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Thank goodness for Casa Mia – you are 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 19
Chamberlain Gardens (Wyoming)
Dedicated care on the coast C
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: • • • • •
Landscaped gardens and courtyards Well-appointed lounges and quiet areas with modern decor A well-stocked library Hairdresser on site A chapel with multi-denominational 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.
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Services 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.
“
When looking for care options for our father and sister, we came across Chamberlain Gardens. We went in without
an appointment and you made time to see us. You were friendly and caring and explained our options clearly.
Both are now settled and very happy. You and the staff have been extremely helpful and supportive along the way and for that we are very grateful. - Cheryl and Winton Gale
Courtlands Village (North Parramatta)
Courtlands Independent living at its best C
ourtlands Village is set among magnificent landscaped grounds and carefully manicured gardens, and combines the both independence and, as well as membership to an active community.
Accommodation Courtlands Village has 130 spacious open-plan apartments, surrounded by magnificent gardens and centred on a community village lifestyle. They feature:
Residents can embrace a lifestyle that is as active or relaxed as they like. The Village is located close to shops and medical facilities and only 4km from the heart of Parramatta. Courtlands Village offers the highest levels of care and service with 24-hour onsite support.
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Along with the self-care apartments the village also offers higher levels of care, including a nursing home, which allows a smooth transition for residents as their care needs change.
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Bedrooms with built-in wardrobes Spacious open plan living/dining room leading onto either a balcony or patio Split system air conditioning Nurse call buttons with 24-hour onsite assistance Internal laundry Garage or carport
Facilities Courtlands Village facilities include lounge rooms, meeting rooms, bar and barbecue area. There are also billiards and games rooms, arts and crafts rooms, a library and a theatrette. The Village also has its own chapel, hair salon and computer room with internet access. Services Courtlands Village provides a range of services to suit residents’ needs. Services include freshly cooked meal delivery, personal care, cleaning and nursing, which offer extra care whenever required.
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Maranatha Aged Care (Kallangur, Qld)
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.
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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.
“
I am very grateful for the numerous educational training sessions I have been able to participate in and the
opportunity to use this knowledge in helping the residents. - Pauline, Maranatha volunteer
Westcourt (Westmead)
Northcourt (North Parramatta)
Personal care and comfort
Hassle-free retirement living
N
W
orthcourt in North Parramatta has been designed specifically to cater for residents requiring 24-hour care.
estcourt in Westmead provides modern self-care accommodation with access to extra care services if required.
The staff of Northcourt provides an excellent standard of care in a small, home-like and friendly environment.
Located near Westmead Private hospital, Westcourt provides independence to residents in a safe and secure environment.
Facilities • 28-day rotating summer and winter menus • Morning, afternoon tea and supper served each day • Excellent, individualised support and nursing care • 24-hour assistance emotional and rehabilitation support • Access to community facilities, outings, and social programs • Picturesque landscaped gardens • The residents of Northcourt also have access to the nearby Courtlands Village facilities
Facilities There are a range of facilities for residents to enjoy in the nearby Courtlands Village. The village bus is available to transport residents to Courtlands Village. Services Residents of Westcourt can enjoy weekly shopping trips, luncheons and other day trips out of the village. Flexi Care assistance is accessible to all residents upon request. Services such as cleaning can also be arranged.
Accommodation Northcourt has 39 beds over 22 rooms, with nine single rooms and 13 shared rooms. There are also:
Accommodation Westcourt consists of six two-bedroom villas and four twobedroom apartments which include:
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Modern bathrooms Personal laundry Quality wool carpet Air conditioning An emergency call pendant for personal use
Either a balcony or a courtyard area A smoke alarm, security and intercom system A modern kitchen Modern bathrooms Personal laundry Quality wool carpet Air conditioning An emergency call pendant for personal use
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Ridgeview (Albion Park)
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: • • • • • • • •
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 multi-denominational 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: • • •
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Regular bus outings that include wheelchair access Diversional therapy, entertainment and activity programs Volunteer program offering activities and social support for our residents
“
A very special thank you to all the staff at Ridgeview. A
very special thanks to RN Rebecca, AINs Adel and Kath
who stayed with my mother at the last stages of her life. It was so comforting to know they were there.
Also a very special thankyou to Karlene for the help in
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transitioning my mother there. I would gladly recommend Ridgeview to any of my family and friends as to a lovely
place to go at their time of need. – Petra Medcalf, Albion Park
Southhaven (Padstow)
Find peace in the bushland T
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.
We understand that companionship is important to our residents and seek to offer activities that fulfil their social needs.
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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The McCluskey and Grubmier families would like to personally thank you for helping Mum and Dad through this most
difficult and life changing time. The many nursing home facilities Steve, Mum and I have been to over this last year did
not provide us with all the helpful information in relation to respite care and permanent care as you did at our meetings. Your support over matters of concern to us over the phone and face-to-face during Dad’s respite month helped us through this experience. The family are also very grateful to you and Peter for permanent placement for Dad into
Southhaven Nursing Home, thank you so much. It would be thoughtless of us not to mention we have found all the staff are all very kind and considerate in the care they provide to all the residents. – Steve and Maureen Grubmier, Revesby
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Aged Care Changes
Living Longer, Living Better How to pay for aged care:
1 Refundable Accomodation Deposit (RAD)
G
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2 OR
Daily Accomodation Payment (DAP)
OR
Any combination of both
overnment 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, advertises 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)
A daily accommodation payment is the amount calculated by converting the RAD into a daily charge using the maximum permissible interest rate (MPIR) that is applied on the price agreement day, or rather, your daily hotel type services.
Maximum Permissible Interest Rate (MPIR) Interest rates are determined by the Australian Government and updated quarterly. Currently set at 6.14% (1/10/15 – 31/12/15). To calculate the DAP, multiply the RAD for a room by 6.14% and divide by 365. For example, a RAD of $300,000 becomes a DAP of $50.46 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 (ACAT) are now contactable through the My Aged Care website at www.myagedcare.gov.au. Complete a Request for a Combined Assets and Income Assessment, available from www. humanservices.gov.au, and lodge with Centrelink.
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Complete a CAC application form. These are available by calling by calling us on 1800 246 637 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.
By visiting My Aged Care: www.myagedcare.gov.au/fee-estimator/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)
Government accommodation supplement – Means Tested Care Fee
T
he Australian 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 supplement or a part accommodation supplement, depending on the resident’s assessed financial circumstances.
This is currently set at $25,731.05 (indexed) per annum (including Income Tested Fee for Home Care) during the year or currently $61,754.55 (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
R
espite care is a form of support for carers. It gives people a break from their caring role.
If the person who cares for someone on a day-to-day basis needs a break, a short stay in an aged care home can be arranged. This is called ‘residential respite care’, and can happen on a planned or emergency basis. They will return home after your short stay in the aged care home. To receive residential respite care an ACAT approval is required.
Low-level and high-level 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. 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.
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Photo by Michael Travers: kitchenninja1@bigpond.com
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 20-34 Ashburn Place, Gladesville NSW 2111 Ph: (02) 8876 9200 Fax: (02) 8876 9210 E: admin@chomes.com.au
Chamberlain Gardens
53-67 Chamberlain Rd, Wyoming NSW 2250 Ph: (02) 4329 8000 Fax: (02) 4329 8001 E: admin@chomes.com.au
Maranatha
1582 Anzac Ave, Kallangur QLD 4503 Ph: (07) 3482 5333 Fax: (07) 3886 3889 E: admin@chomes.com.au
Ridgeview Aged Care
95 Daintree Drive, Albion Park NSW 2527 Ph: (02) 4235 7600 Fax: (02) 4235 7650 E: admin@chomes.com.au
Westcourt
21 Darcy Rd, Westmead 2145 Ph: (02) 9683 8000 E: admin@chomes.com.au
Casa Mia 28 Alma Rd, Padstow NSW 2211 Ph: (02) 8707 6010 Fax: (02) 8707 6052 E: admin@chomes.com.au
Courtlands Village 15 Gloucester Ave, North Parramatta NSW 2151 Ph: (02) 9683 8000 E: admin@chomes.com.au
Northcourt 7 Saunders Rd, North Parramatta 2151 Ph: (02) 9683 8000 E: admin@chomes.com.au
Southhaven 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 Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/christadelphianagedcare Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/CACagedcare
www.chomes.com.au