Southhaven Hostel Spring Newsletter - Christadelphian Aged Care

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Christadelphian Aged Care S P R I N G N E W S L E T T E R

SOUTHHAVEN HOSTEL

Address: 11 Queensbury Rd, Padstow Heights

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Phone: (02) 9782 6030

Email: admin@chomes.com.au

Managers Message

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Welcome to Southhaven Hostel

Spring is nature's way of saying, "Let's party!"

- Robin Williams Spring is the Birthday of the World 'Tis like the birthday of the world, When earth was born in bloom; The light is made of many dyes, The air is all perfume: There's crimson buds, and white and blue, The very rainbow showers Have turned to blossoms where they fell, And sown the earth with flowers.

- Thomas Hood

Hello to all, The renovation at Southhaven has been going for over 12 months and we can almost see the finish post.

Level 2 rooms will be opened early September and we now have a new temporary entrance to the Hostel which will allow the builders to continue with the link building and still allow visitors and staff to enter in a safe manner.

New furniture has been purchased for the rooms, which include electric beds and wall mounted TV’s for the residents’ comfort.

I would like to thank all residents and relatives for their patience during the last 12 months - but I am sure it will all be worth it in the end.

Bye for now, Kim Howard

“For behold, the winter is past; the rain is over and gone.

The flowers appear on the earth, the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land.”

- Song of Solomon 2:11-12

Message from our CFO Can you remember a time when someone in your life showed you great kindness?

In my personal experience, the acts of kindness that stand out most haven’t been ‘a matter of life or death’ - they have been the help and consideration shown by people who put me first when they saw I needed a boost – when times were sad or my health was below par.

And it wasn’t just the kind action of itself; it was as much the thought of that help that counted – knowing that someone cared for me. So their actions and intentions came together – they lifted my spirits and boosted me. It felt like I wasn’t on my own in this burden, they were sharing my load. The kindness was uplifting and obvious to me. As Mark Twain once wrote, “Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see”.

The kindness people have shown me, the kindness I hear of and see being shown to others around our troubled world, and the kindness that God shows me, motivates my life. Acts of kindness take the quality of our lives far above ‘survival of the fittest’.

One of Christadelphian Aged Care’s eight values is about Kindness. We describe this as ‘operating as Jesus did with kindness, integrity and respect’.

It doesn’t necessarily cost you anything to be kind. You can talk in a respectful way to each other, using the ‘golden rule’ to treat others as you would like to be treated. You can say thank you to someone who helps you. You can let someone through the door first. You can give someone a helping hand.

Related to this, another of Christadelphian Aged Care’s eight values is about Support. We describe this as ‘assistance for those in particular in need of help’. You can show support by spending some extra time with someone who is lonely, who hasn’t had visitors for a while. At CAC we can show support by providing care, assistance and accommodation to a resident in genuine financial difficulty.

And talking of Values: values are the things that people believe are important in the way they live and the way they work. Values direct our decisions, activities and behaviour as a group of people working together to provide care. We have focused on eight values in how we conduct ourselves which are summed up in the words: Kindness, Support, Excellence, Comfort, Atmosphere, Innovation, Compliance and Sustainable.

Our goal and desire is that our residents, visitors and families ‘see’ and ‘feel’ our Mission and Values in action, in what we all do each day at CAC. We can be so thankful for the dedication of our staff and our volunteer supporters. It means everything.

In being kind and supportive to each other we seek to enrich the quality of the lives of the people in our care by nurturing them through our compassion, service and comfortable living environment.

On the news each day, we see the terrible troubles being experienced by millions of people around the world suffering in civil wars, terrorism and from diseases including Ebola. Yet sadly too many times those with the resources to act watch on helplessly from the sidelines. It’s a great worry. This makes me look forward in hope to a promised day coming soon when the Lord Jesus Christ will visibly return to the earth and bring peace and healing to all humanity. That’s the great change that this world desperately needs.

In the meantime, I think the words of Charlie Chaplin sum things up. He said “We think too much and feel too little. More than machinery, we need humanity. More than cleverness, we need kindness and gentleness.”

God bless you, Andrew O’Toole

News & Upcoming Events UPCOMING EVENTS

SEPTEMBER Bridal Day

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

21 Grace T

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

Carnival Extravaganza Black & White Ball

25 Dot H

NOVEMBER Melbourne Cup

Southhaven Black & White

Ball

! can “Any man be a father.

It takes someone special to be a dad. “ !

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plus

Please join us for a wonderful evening of music & dance

Activity Reviews

Centennial Park - We got on the M5

at Padstow. The M5 South Western Motorway is a privately operated tolled motorway in south-wester n Sydney, Australia. It forms part of the M5 route and the Sydney Orbital Network. We went in the tunnel, which is loved by one of the resident. He particularly loves the lighting. The white overhead strip lighting, the green lights that indicated go, all along the tunnel and the red of the back lights of the traffic ahead.

After a detour, we found ourselves on Oxford Street. Oxford Street is a major thoroughfare in Sydney, Australia running from Whitlam Square on the south-east corner of Hyde Park in the central business district of Sydney to Bondi Junction in the Eastern Suburbs. Close to the CBD in particular, the street is lined with numerous shops, bars and nightclubs. In recent years, Oxford Street has garnered a reputation as Sydney's primary nightclub strip. Eventually, we arrived at Centennial Park where we had our morning tea. Centennial Park is the largest of the three parks that make up Centennial Parklands. The Park is 2.2 square kilometres in area, originally swamplands known as Lachlan Swamps and is located adjacent to another two large public spaces, Moores Park and Queens Park. The Park is one of Australia's most famous parks and is listed on the Register of the National Estate. After the outing one resident said it was the best bus ride ever.

Kyeemagh - is located on the

southern bank of the Cooks River and the eastern bank of Muddy Creek. Kyeemagh is an Aboriginal name meaning 'beautiful dawn'.

Prior to European settlement it was part of the lands of the Cadigal people. We stopped there for morning tea by the river looking at Sydney Airport. Unfortunately, it was a cold and breezy morning, so we had morning tea in the bus while watching the planes take off. The residents had a good time trying to identify the logos on the tail of each plane. After tea, we went to Maccas for our customary ice cream. We decided to eat in and were pleasantly surprised to find that at certain Maccas restaurants pensioners get a free cup of tea or coffee, so we had our free hot beverage and a 30c ice cream. AIN Wendy was the photographer for the morning while Dot was her model posing very well for the camera. Overall it was agreed that this was an excellent morning out.

Activity Reviews contd

City2Surf - What a great experience we had participating in

the 2014 City2Surf. This was my first time (and my last). The atmosphere was wonderful, with some people dressed to impress in many strange outfits, but here we were - Margaret, Tayla and myself, standing out in the crowd with our burnt orange shirts with the CAC logo (we couldn’t hide if we tried)!

We started off at a respectable pace only to start floundering at the 4kms mark (only 10kms to go), but we continued to support and humour each other along the way. Unfortunately, we did not see any other CAC staff along the way, but thought we represented the organisation proudly. That was until Margaret and I decided we wanted to take a better look at our wonderful harbour (and have a breather as well) but to do so we had to climb a guard rail. Getting the first leg over was fine but I was having great difficulty getting the second one to follow. I could not stop laughing which was not helping as I could only imagine the sight from behind.

After I managed to complete the manoeuvre, I realised Margaret was having the same trouble and all we could do was laugh at ourselves, but it was worth it to get to see the view. Although we were exhausted by the time we reached the finish line we were still smiling. - by Kim Howard

Knitting Group Every second Monday, the residents look forward to the “knitting ladies”. Hazel and Daphne have been coming to Southhaven Hostel for approximately 20years. They gather the residents and assist them with making squares to join together to make beautiful knee rugs and blankets which are then given to the nursing home or donated to charities.The residents get so much joy and satisfaction out of these mornings.

FarewellHazel -

Monday 1st September 2014; her last day after 40years volunteering in our Homes

Sadly for all at Southhaven, Hazel will be moving to South Australia soon to be closer to her daughter. We will miss her greatly and wish Hazel all the happiness in the next chapter of her life. Thank you so much Hazel for all the loving ways you cared for our residents through craft and chatting.

Farewell to a much loved volunteer and friend.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

Honour her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate” - Proverbs 31:25

CYC Day Photos

Lakemba Ecclesia Concert Photos

Resident Story - Adrian H Adrian was born in 1946. He lived in the Eastern Suburbs and moved into Southhaven in March 2012. He has a brother and two sisters. One sister visits him every week. He sometimes visits his sister or brother and sometimes stays there for a sleepover, which he likes very much.

Adrian likes Southhaven. “The rooms are good here” he says, while showing me his Ascot digital clock which lights up when you clap your hands. He loves the technology. He also likes the staff and the bus trips, but he does not like the bus trips when it is raining or cold.

He remembers one bus trip to Cooks River, Kyeemagh. It was a cold and breezy morning, so they had a nice cup of tea with a nice chocolate biscuit in the bus while watching the planes take off, wondering where in the world they could be going to, and along with the other residents he liked to try and identify the logos on the tail of each plane. After tea, they went to Maccas for their customary ice cream.

Adrian’s uncle has a house in Mascot that he likes as he lives on a flight path. Adrian likes planes especially take off and landings.

Adrian has been on three trips by plane, both national and international. He fondly remembers his trip to New Zealand, particularly meeting six South Island girls who were “of a good sort” as they wanted to marry him. Unfortunately, he had to go back home to Australia.

Thanks Adrian for sharing your story with everyone at Southhaven.

When I scratched my knee, Or if I bumped my head.

When I was afraid of the dark, Or that thing under my bed.

When I cried in the night, Or even in the day.

You were there for me, To make it all okay.

You are my father You did what you had to do.

But more than a father You are my friend too.

You tickled my feet, And laughed at all my jokes.

You taught me to believe, In having high hopes.

You made everything good, That was once bad.I just want you to know I love you Dad.

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Pastoral Care ENCOURAGING OTHERS There's no doubt that people need encouragement. Just ask any counsellor or pastoral carer who deals with people, and you'll get the same answer. There are many hurt people who have nowhere to turn, or no friend to talk to. What about those who carry inside themselves hurt feelings or guilt or fears that they don't share with others? There are many like that who keep those feelings to themselves and don't want to talk about them. All around us there are people who are crushed by life and have nowhere to turn. Their marriage is falling apart or their financial affairs are in a mess and they're worried about their kids. Maybe their health is in jeopardy with some bad news from their doctor. Maybe they are lonely, grieving the loss of a loved one, or in the depths of depression, or unable to find a job. The tough experiences in life are on going.

That's why it's so important to be an encourager and lend a hand. God made us to mix with others. You were made for this connection, and there is a universal need to belong somewhere. From the moment we're born, we long for the warmth of love and acceptance from others. In the Bible we read Proverbs 17:22 which says "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength�. Maybe that's how you feel today, and you're very discouraged, unable to smile about life. That's the time you need someone to come alongside and bring encouragement, and that's when the church is so important. Church is different to other organisations, because you can be yourself and find encouragement from like minded people. A lot of people don't understand what Christianity is all about. It's about relationships with God and with other people. Jesus said "You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment". A second is equally important, "Love your neighbour as yourself" (Mat. 22:37-39).

You may well ask "How do I encourage people?� The Bible has the answer to that. In verse 24 of Hebrews 10 it says "Think of ways to encourage one another to outbursts of love and good deeds". Maybe you have a gift of encouragement and find it easy. That's really good, because God has given you that gift. Use it creatively. Others may find it a bit more difficult, and it won't happen unless we plan ahead. What's wrong with dropping a short note in the post or email someone with a brief message saying you're thinking about them? You'll be amazed at the result. Or use the phone to speak for a few minutes with that lonely friend you know who can't get out of the house. Sometimes the best way to encourage isn't through words at all it's through listening. It's by trying to understand the other person. Did you know that understanding is better than giving advice? Howard Hendricks made a wonderful statement once that went like this "You can Our deepest sympathies have impress people at a distance; you can only impact them up close. The gone out to the families who general principal here is this: the closer the personal relationship, the have lost their loved ones over greater the potential for impact", the idea of getting close to people and the Winter period. sharing with them. You can't do that from a distance. In fact, Scripture says we should do something special everyday. Hebrews 3:13 "

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Bereavements

Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness". Unless we do it each day, we can forget. Hidden opportunities for encouragement will surface only as we are sensitive to other people, and look out for those opportunities.

In Proverbs 12:25. It says "Worry weighs a person down. An encouraging word cheers a person up". Can you think of friends that have said the right word at the right time? It was as if God sent them to you, as an encourager.. - By Chris Witts

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Physio Corner WHY IS PHYSICAL EXERCISE SO IMPORTANT? Exercise is important at any age, but as you grow older, it is even more important to engage in regular activity. Regular exercise can improve your health, help prevent conditions that typically develop with age and some research suggests even extend your life expectancy!

When you become older your muscles can shorten and bones can become more brittle, and elderly people can quickly lose the balance and co-ordination that they once had. Staying active helps keep the body be flexible, and routines such as stretching will lengthen muscles and help prevent shortening and deterioration. Exercise can even reduce incidents of arthritis and osteoporosis by increasing bone density and range of motion.

Regular exercise also helps keep the heart muscle in shape. Exercising at even a light intensity will raise the heart rate and improve overall fitness.

Light exercise can even help fight off common illness such as colds and flu by increasing respiratory intake. Exercising also helps the heart by lowering blood cholesterol which can block arteries and reduce blood flow to vital organs. It doesn’t just stop there, because exercise is good for your brain and can even increase your mental focus and cognition!

If all the physical benefits of exercise aren’t enough, why not just exercise to feel good! Exercise is a natural mood enhancer. When you work out, the body releases endorphins that make you feel capable. If you are fighting the psychological effects of ageing, exercise may be the key to giving you your energy and drive back. Even a short walk can lift your spirits and help you soar through the day.

So why not come and join us for some of our great group exercises classes at 10am. Southhaven Hostel offers a Boot Camp class on Friday mornings with Kachan our Physio. An exercise program can be tailored to your needs.

Please speak to your Physio Team if you have any questions.

Note: Please remember that it is always advisable to have the doctor assess you prior to any new exercise activity.

Volunteer Corner

“The world is hugged by the faithful arms of volunteers” - Terri Guillemets We are so grateful to all the volunteers at Southhaven who give so generously of their time despite the on-going upgrade and disruptions around the home (and lack of parking!!). They have been such a blessing and help with the residents and we’re looking forward to having some light relief in the form of our Black and White Ball for our residents and their families.

We have some new volunteers who have joined our team to help out - in the kitchen, with feeding residents and with one-on-one visiting. No matter how big or small the task, your help is very much appreciated. We have also had some volunteer training including Dementia education to assist with our care of the residents, and we will be having a pastoral care training course starting in October if any family or volunteers New Volunteers: Brian & Rebecca would like to attend.

We would like to say goodbye to two very long term volunteers: Joan and Hazel. An enormous thank you and God bless from us all.

Farewell: Joan & Hazel

SPOTLIGHT ON A VOLUNTEER - Joan Cranston Joan has been a volunteer at Southhaven for the past 4 years since she moved into Padstow Heights. This is her story: “My mother had died leaving me with the feeling that I had not done enough for her. I have since come to realise that this is not an uncommon feeling. Her death left such a void in my life, which encouraged me to seek voluntary work. Now I realise at the time my motives were for the most part selfish.

After making various enquiries I seemed drawn to Calvary Hospital. Through the patients who were dying and allowing me to share with them so much of their past lives, meeting their families and becoming part of those last weeks together, now gave my life a new meaning. It didn’t take me long to realise I was receiving more than I was giving.

I have always found it easy to do things for my family and friends, but this work showed me that many people do not have family and friends to support them in hospital – many have outlived their loves ones, and to see a smile of welcome when you walk into their room is something you have to experience.

I am now a voluntary bereavement counsellor and have the opportunity to follow up some of these relatives which is not only a privilege for me but continues to give meaning to my life.

Looking back I realise just how much of this kind of care is appreciated. My only regret is I had to lose my mother before I became aware of the needs d others in similar situations.”

If you are interested in joining the Volunteer program, please do not hesitate to contact me: Cathy Strachan on 0435 814 411 or cstrachan@chomes.com.au Volunteer & Pastoral Care Coordinator

Read, Rest & Relax!

With Age comes skills.

It’s called Multi-tasking.

I can LAUGH, COUGH, SNEEZE AND PEE all at the same time!

Hummingbird Cake

• 3/4 cup plain flour

• 3/4 cup self-raising flour • 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar • 450g can crushed pineapple in juice, drained, reserving 1/3 cup juice • 1/2 cup desiccated coconut • 1 cup mashed banana • 2 eggs, lightly beaten • 1/2 cup extra light olive oil • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped CREAM CHEESE FROSTING • 125g cream cheese, softened • 1 1/2 cups icing sugar Serves 12

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1.Preheat oven to 180°C/160°C fan-forced. Grease 23cm square cake pan. Line base and sides with baking paper.

2.Sift flours, soda, cinnamon and sugar into a large bowl.

Stir in pineapple, reserved juice, coconut, banana, egg, oil and 1/4 cup cold water. Pour into prepared pan.

3. Bake for 45 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Stand in pan for 10 minutes. Turn out onto a wire rack to cool.

4. Make cream cheese frosting: Using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese until light and fluffy.

Gradually add icing sugar. Beat until smooth.

Spread frosting over top of cake.

Sprinkle with walnuts. Serve.

Spot the Differences There are 10 differences between the two images in the French scene below.

Circle what is missing from the right hand picture.

Can you find all 10?

Artist in Paris

Disclaimer: All photos and stories have been published with consent of relatives and residents involved. Thank you for your submissions.