Ridgeview Spring Newsletter 2015

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

RIDGEVIEW Address: 95 Daintree Drive, Albion Park NSW 2527

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Phone: (02) 4235 7600 Email: admin@chomes.com.au

Managers Message

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Welcome to Ridgeview

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favourite weather is bird-chirping weather - Terri Guillemets

Dear Residents, Relatives and Staff, I would like to say a big thank you to all of our residents, relatives and staff for such a lovely warm welcome to Ridgeview. The few months I have spent with you has been just delightful. The resident care here is just beautiful and I am blessed to have been privileged with the Acting Facility Manager role. I am happy to say that a new Facility Manager has been formally offered the role and we welcome the new incumbent to commence on 28th September. Details regarding the new Manager will be announced in due course by Christadelphian.

Over the last few months, you may have noticed new signage around the facility. The new look really feels homely and enhances Ridgeview for our visitors.

Please be mindful to stay at home if you have any signs and symptoms of the flu or a cold. Our elderly population are quite vulnerable so we like to encourage all visitors to also use the hand sanitiser whilst on site to help prevent any infections Many thanks to our Chef and Kitchen staff who have had a few rounds of applause from the residents at our last two meetings. The Catering team really do aim to please and we understand you have many people to please and are balancing the delivery of meals wonderfully.

Soon, we expect delivery of a laundry labelling system that will allow our residents, and staff to easily identify their belongings.

We welcome a new Care Manager to the family. Sanchoo Philip or ‘Philip’ as he likes to be known, has recently moved from Ireland to join our team. He will be filling in Ciji’s role.

Ciji’s family will be moving to the Central Coast NSW and we wish her all the best in her future endeavours. I know I speak on behalf of everyone saying that your contribution to Ridgeview was amazing. The love and compassion you shared with our residents, staff and families really made a difference to our lives.

Congratulations to Jaina on her role of Case Conferencing and ACFI Manager. This very important role in Ridgeview ensures our residents are regularly reviewed clinically and all the documentation required by the government is legally compliant and clinically accurate at all times. We wish you all the best in your role here at Ridgeview.

Karlene has been keeping us full at all times and we thank you for all of your hard work. Ridgeview is certainly in demand for it’s great care. Continued over page

Manager’s Message continued Diane has been extremely busy converting our staff on to a new payroll programme called Time Target in which staff use their finger to scan on. This new programme will be of great benefit to Ridgeview and improve our efficiencies on site in regards to rostering, payroll and replacing staff when needed.

We will soon be announcing our new Diversional Therapist to Ridgeview. The DT will be working with the current recreational officers to provide a wonderful activity programme and plenty of entertainment to stimulate us! A big thank you to Michelle Bonner for all of her hard work in the role over the last 12 months.

Please do not hesitate to see me or the new facility manager if you would like to discuss any topics. We aim to continually improve our services to you.

Take care and I can honestly say, it’s been a pleasure caring for you and spending time with you.

Kind Regards, Rachael Ellender Acting Facility Manager June- August 2015

News & Upcoming Events UPCOMING EVENTS SEPTEMBER Margaret F

Trevor M

Nevena V

Mary L

Johanna K

Lillian R

4th - DIY Workshop Bunnings Shellharbour 9th - Carpet Bowls 14th - Stan Ellis Concert 24th - Swingaleles Concert

Chica H

Beryl B

Trevor M

OCTOBER

Peter S

Shirley P

Barbara H

David G

Maria J

John H

Catherine L

Allan D

Daphne H

Eileen H

Norma H

Violet F

5th - Resident & Relative Meeting 6th - Sing Australia Concert 7th - Ten Pin Bowling 14th - Happy Hour 29th - Kris’s Fine Feathered Friends

Betty C

Linda W

Brian G

NOVEMBER

Iris D

Ken C

Norma G

Elva P

Kathe L

Stasia Z

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

Frances H Joan S Jean H Hilda S

2nd - Stan Ellis Concert 3rd - Melbourne Cup Day Bingo 10th - Shoalhaven Shufflers Performance 25th - Armchair Travel Scotland 26th - Silverbell Tappers Performance

Activity Reviews SUNSHINE Hello from Sunshine!

We've had a busy couple of months. Sunshine residents have enjoyed an arrange of activities, with some new ideas being tried since our last newsletter. The Physio and RAO teams are working together to increase physical participation, with seat exercises held in Sunshine dining room on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Noodle balloons is another game we have introduced. It is not only fun but encourages movement in our less active residents. The morning walking program has recommenced and with the assistance of volunteers we are able to take three or four wheelchairs along with our walking residents.

One on one and small group activity time has been a focus for residents in Sunshine. This offers meaningful interaction for residents who are less likely to participate in regular activities or who find larger group activities challenging.

An Art Exhibition was held displaying a range of art works by our residents. Sunshine contributed to the display with art pieces made from colleagues, stencil painting, foam painting and water colour work using art therapy stencils.

A no-bake cooking session has commenced on Wednesday morning, with Residents enjoying their treats for morning tea. If anyone has any no bake recipes using three or four ingredients to share that would be great.

New resources have been purchased and we have added sensory and tactile equipment, fiddle boxes, quiz and art stencil books, relaxation music, percussion instruments, sensory DVD's and sing-alongs DVD's to our equipment stores.

Over the past 10-12 weeks, the RAO roster been extended to 6pm four days a week. The aim is to provide sensory and relaxation therapy in the afternoon program to settle residents before dinner time. Aromatherapy massage to hands and feet is part of the program twice a week.

Our monthly ‘Armchair Travel’ is still well attended with residents enjoying the opportunity to share their travel experiences or contribute culturally. Many thanks to the kitchen staff for providing a dish from the themed country.

I am commencing work on hobby specific rummage boxes for Sunshine residents. Hopefully these will be available for use by September.

Finally, thank you to the volunteers who continue to assisted us with our activities. Your time makes our job so much easier.

Until next time, best wishes - Vikki

Staff News Therese our AIN/RAO has had her first grandchild - a girl born on 30th July named Destiny. Congratulations Therese!

Kim our RAO had a new grandson Tynan, born 24/8/2015 - that makes 4 grandsons! A very happy Nanna ☺

Activity Reviews SAPPHIRE Hello from Sapphire!

We have had a busy 3 months with regular sing-alongs, quizzes, reminiscence table games, craft and now we have a new golf chipping game that regularly happens in Sapphire, with residents competing to win a prize. We also have games of ten pin bowling, regular concerts and now a morning walk outside happens twice weekly. Our residents are now enjoying a monthly shopping bus trip and monthly luncheon bus trip. We also enjoy a weekly sing-along (Thursday) with our volunteer ukulele players, which has been a big hit. We recently purchased some new musical instruments that residents enjoy playing while singing the good old songs of there era. We have also purchased some new sing-along discs which are a big hit with the residents.

We will continue to do new things and would love your suggestions of suitable restaurants and activities for our residents. Our residents are loving the monthly ‘Armchair Travel’ as we take a look and enjoy the cuisine of a different part of our world. Our Pom Pom floor mat is well under way and will be completed by October. Friday afternoon movies have been a big hit - the residents feel like they are ‘at the flicks’ as they call it!!!

To all residents of Ridgeview, the RAO team thank you for making it a pleasure to come to work every day. Love Kim xxxx

AMETHYST Hello from Amethyst!

It has been a busy few months, with residents enjoying a variety of activities and attending functions. The art show was a big success and was attended by residents of Amethyst who loved seeing their work on display. The RAO team now have the assistance of an RAO/AIN to provide additional 1.1 and small group activities focusing on outdoor time and on those residents who are unable to attend larger group events. We thank our AIN/RAOs Therese, Olivia and Rebecca. Amethyst residents are also enjoying ‘Armchair Travel’ and enjoy the interaction with other residents talking about holidays etc. Art and colour therapy is providing to be not only beneficial but a favourite past time for many residents.

We would like to thank the volunteers of Ridgeview for all your help. Thank you, From Jean

Resident Story - Patrick Ireland Patrick Ireland was born in Short Street, Woonona. He was the 10th child born in his large family.

In total, he has five sisters and six brothers, making Patrick one of twelve! Patrick's dad was a coal miner and worked locally and his mother was a housewife, who looked after all of her children.

Patrick attended school in both Woonona and Maroubra. However, at the age of nine years old, Patrick became a 'state border' and went to live in an orphanage in Yarra Bay. Patrick lived in Yarra Bay until he was fifteen years old. At the age of fifteen, Patrick left school and got a job working for the Illawarra Mercury as a copy boy. Patrick fondly remembers his wage, which was five bob a week… today’s equivalent of fifty cents! Patrick stayed working at the Mercury for a year until he was sixteen.

At sixteen years old, Patrick began working at the Metal Manufacturers and eventually went on to work in the mines at Coal Cliff. After his time in the mines at Coal Cliff, Patrick became a builder's labourer, something which he describes as being 'very hard work.' With all the skills Patrick acquired at such a young age, Patrick began to travel around Australia, finding jobs as he went on. He has worked in both poultry and dairy farms. He also worked in the Francis Oreck Oar Mine. Patrick's most interesting job however, was when he was working on the railway in the Northern Territory.

With Patrick's work ethic, it was not hard for him to find work, that is why it was easy for him to find work as a concreter when he returned home to the Illawarra region. Patrick lived with his sister Alma in Warilla.

At the age of fifty, Patrick suffered a terrible injury when he fell off some scaffolding at his work.

He was then placed on to the invalid pension and was able to retire early. When asked what Patrick enjoyed doing in retirement, he cheekily replied “bugger all” (although later admitted he liked to fish - a lot).

Here at Ridgeview, Patrick likes playing with his deck of cards, crosswords and puzzles.

Impressively, Patrick completed a five hundred piece puzzle in a matter of days. He is soon going to try and tackle a one thousand piece puzzle!

Patrick is also an avid South Sydney Rabbitohs fan... the red and green sure is a special touch to his room!

Staff Profile - Linda Barrett Hi My name is Linda Barrett, people just call me LJ. I have been working at Ridgeview since 2009 and enjoy taking care of all residents. A passion of mine is to see all residents comfortable and happy.

I moved to Australia from New Zealand back in 2002. I have two children - Josh, 26 and Neesha, 24. I live with my partner Chris in Albion Park.

I enjoy all sports especially Rugby Union - GO THE ALL BLACKS! I manage our band called Push Play and Chris plays the drums. I love to hang with family and friends, listen to music, animals, sports and gardening. My favourite colour is black.

If you see me at work, come and say Hi!

Beauty at Rigdeview FACIAL WAXING (Lip, Chin, sides of Face)………………………………………….$8.00 ea FULL FACIAL WAXING……………………………………………..$20.00 EYEBROW WAXING ………………………………………………...$15.00 EYEBROW TINTING………………………………………………...$12.00 EYELASH TINTING………………………………………………......$15.00 NAIL FILE, BUFF & POLISH ……………………………………...$20.00 NAIL TRIM, FILE & BUFF………………………………………….$15.00 NAIL FILE SET………………………………………………………….$10.00 MINI MANICURE ……………………………………………………..$30.00 HAND & ARM MASSAGE …………………………………………..$20.00 DELUXE MANICURE (including hand massage)…………$35.00 MINI PEDICURE………………………………………………………..$30.00 DELUXE PEDICURE (including foot massage)…………….$40.00 FOOT MASSAGE ……………………………………………………….$20.00 MINI FACIAL …………………………………………………………….$30.00 DELUXE FACIAL (including face massage)………………….$40.00 NECK & SHOULDER MASSAGE ………………………………….$20.00

KAREN TUBARO the Beauty Therapist is available every THURSDAY Note: for regular clientele discounted prices will apply.

From July 1st of each year price will increase by 10%.

Men's Shed Lolly Trolley

Farewell Ciji Ciji’s family will be moving to the Central Coast, NSW and we wish her all the best in her future endeavours.

Her contribution to Ridgeview was amazing. The love and compassion she shared with our residents, staff and families really made a difference to our lives. We will all miss you!

Pastoral Care TESTING TIMES Have you ever felt like giving up? I think many of us have ( I know I have). Certain events come in life that throw us off guard and we say “is it time to give up?”. Some of the worst tragedies that happen come when people give up. We sometimes also think that all the successful people in life have been strong individuals who had their lives altogether; not true. Let’s take a minute to talk about that. We might think of scientists, for example, like Louis Pasteur who made some amazing discoveries in the field of chemistry. He is written up in all the history books. But this incredible man suffered from a paralytic stroke at age 46 which actually made him handicapped for the rest of his life. And what about the great musicians and poets with time to entertain people with their incredible gifts?

Beethoven struggled to write his music because of his deafness. The English poet John Milton wrote some of his poetry after he became blind. So it’s amazing to see that people often discover that despite their handicaps, great work can to be accomplished. Here’s someone else; James Watt, the Scottish inventor famous for the steam engine, was a very sick man and didn’t have much money. The thing that made all these people famous and unique was not their psychical strength, emotional stability or large amounts of money – it was a sense of purpose, and a total commitment to that purpose. I sense in meeting some people that that purpose is missing because of the difficulties of life.

They give up because it’s too hard or they don’t feel they have a purpose.

Some of our problems are short-term, like a bout of flu or a falling out with someone at work. Others may last much longer: a chronic illness, a disability or an addiction, the loss of someone close to us, or an ongoing battle to overcome a personal weakness such as anger or moodiness. You may have to struggle with such difficulties for weeks, months, or even years. And sometimes problems persist even when you feel you’ve already done all you could: You’ve been praying, reading and following the Bible, claiming His promises and trying to trust God. Still you see no answer, which can be discouraging.

When you think you’ve reached the end of your rope, just hold on a little longer. Patience is often the key that opens the door to God’s blessings and sometimes we must be content to wait for His answer.

While we may expect God to put an end to our problems right now, He may know that later is a better time. God’s timing is impeccable. “He has done all things well.” (Mark 7:37.) Trust Him! Faith is believing. Faith is trusting. Faith doesn’t quit. Faith refuses to call anything impossible. Faith refuses to be robbed of its joy and peace by circumstances or battles.

Once, a little boy was trying very hard to lift a heavy piece of furniture. His father came into the room and, noting his son’s struggle, asked him “Are you using all your strength?”” Yes, of Our deepest sympathies have course I am!” the boy impatiently shouted. “Oh no, you’re not,” the gone out to the families who father answered. “You haven’t asked me to help you!” That’s the have lost their loved ones over problem with our faith and trust in God. We fail to ask for His help. the Winter period.

In cases like that, God may be testing you to see whether you will continue to trust and believe and thank Him for all the good He sends your way, even when it seems He is not answering your prayers. “We walk by faith, not by sight. Blessed are they who have not seen, and yet have believed.” (2 Cor 5:7; John 20:29) God loves to see His children’s faith manifested, and He promises to greatly reward those who bravely endure the trying of their faith.

If God is working in your life to bring out a special quality, the nnn process may take some time. Lumps of coal aren’t turned to diamonds overnight; so it is with our lives.

- By Chris Witts

Bereavements

Volunteer Corner Volunteer support is a vital part of our commitment to quality care for our residents. Without our wonderful volunteers many of the additional services and new friendships we offer at Ridgeview Aged Care would be possible.

I would like to welcome new volunteers: Belinda (Monday) – assisting with nursing and Lifestyle staff with activities Debbie (Monday), Janette (Tuesday) – assisting Lifestyle staff with activities Helen (Tues, Thurs, Friday) – assisting Lifestyle staff with activities, Bingo and bus trips Yvonne (Thurs) - assisting Lifestyle staff with activities, chatting to residents & playing Rummikub Sue, Sally, Patricia – Ukulele sing-alongs first Monday of the month and every Thursday morning from 10.45am in the Sapphire back lounge area.

With each visit comes much anticipation. Whether it’s having a chat while getting your ironing done, room visits, choir, learning computer and iPad, playing table games, buying goodies from the Lolly Trolley and Kiosk, Euchre, playing pool, knitting… and the list goes on. Every visit, every smile, every gentle word gives our residents so much joy and happiness. We continually value and thank our Volunteers at Ridgeview for your support, kindness and generosity.

Ukulele - On the first Monday of the month and every Thursday morning Sue, Sally and Patricia come to Ridgeview with their Ukulele’s and a great selection of sing-along favourites. Music plays such an important part in the lives of our residents, bringing reminiscence and joy.

It is a delight to see so many participate and enjoy this special time with our ukulele players. This week we had a number of residents enjoy our Ukulele sing-along. We utilised our recently purchased percussion instruments and had a great time singing, making music and even dancing!

Knit and Natter - Our knitting group has resumed and now meeting on a Tuesday morning from 11am in the Sapphire ‘exercise area’. Overlooking the courtyard and escarpment in the background, knitting group is a relaxing atmosphere to meet new people, have a chat and enjoy a good laugh. Come along and join in. Bring your own knitting, or learn a new skill.

Wool and needles are provided ready for you to start a new project - Jan and Jeanette are ready to assist if you need a hand. If you no longer knit but would love a chat, feel free to join in. Jan and Jeanette would love to see you.

Volunteer Corner Computer and iPads - Angela has been kept very busy in the Internet Café (Sapphire) teaching resident’s computers and iPads on a Wednesday afternoon.

Many residents are now enjoying utilising their new ‘skills’ by emailing family and friends, keeping in contact via Facebook or simply enjoying some of the many games you can play on the computer. On Thursday mornings, the residents in Sunshine eagerly await Angela’s morning visits to play games or sing songs on the iPads. Snakes and Ladders being a good old fashioned favourite. If you would like to how to use a computers or brush up on some skills, please add your name to the list on our noticeboards.

Lolly Trolley and Kiosk - In conjunction with the Albion Park Men’s Shed, we now have a custom made Lolly Trolley. Rhonda makes her way around the home on a Tuesday morning from 11am – keep an ear out for the ringing bell of the Lolly Trolley.

Kiosk is open every Friday from 3.30pm to 4.30pm.

Resident Ironing - Sheila is available on a Monday morning from 10am to do some light ironing for residents in the Sapphire back lounge room. Sheila would love to meet you and have a chat while she does your ironing. Tea/coffee facilities available.

Pool - On Tuesday mornings from 11am Bill is available to play a game of pool in the Sapphire back lounge area.

Euchre - Tuesday afternoons from 3.30pm there is some serious competition happening in the Private Dining Room with Matt (Volunteer) and residents who enjoy a weekly game of Euchre. There is room for more to join along with the help of volunteers William and Helen on hand.

If you are interested in joining the Volunteer program, please do not hesitate to contact me: Michelle Bonner on 0434 421 617 or mbonner@chomes.com.au Volunteer & Pastoral Care Coordinator

Read, Rest & Relax!

SPRING CLEANING TIPS Finally, springtime is knocking at our door! After winter, we’re ready to swing open the windows and let the fresh air flow in. Spring is a season of renewal. Symbolically, it’s when nature comes alive again: blooming flowers, baby animals and cleansing rain showers!

Many people grew up with a seasonal tradition: the spring-cleaning. It’s an annual reminder its time to clean house and de-clutter. For seniors, it’s a great way to shake the winter blues and reminisce. Many older adults are rejuvenated by the warming weather and sunshine. A cleanup confers health benefits as well: reducing symptoms of respiratory illness and risk for falling. A good cleaning is beneficial both physically and emotionally!

Spring Cleaning To-Do List: Discard old medications Clean out bedside drawers and sort books/magazines De-clutter; remove objects that obstruct the flow of movement through the room such as unnecessary furniture Bust dust - don't forget photographs and art on walls, blinds, vents & light bulbs Open windows to circulate fresh air

Peanut Butter and Dark Chocolate Cookies • 100g unsalted butter, chopped • 200g dark chocolate, chopped • 1/3 cup (100g) crunchy peanut butter • 2/3 cup (150g) caster sugar • 1 egg, lightly beaten • 1 1/4 cups (185g) plain flour • 1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder • 2 tablespoons roasted unsalted peanuts, chopped Makes 24

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease and line two baking trays with baking paper.

2. Place the butter and half the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of gently simmering water (don't let bowl touch the water) and stir until melted.

Remove from heat.

3. Stir in peanut butter, followed by sugar and egg. Sift over flour, bicarbonate of soda and cocoa, then stir to combine. Fold in half of the remaining chocolate.

4. In a separate bowl, combine nuts and remaining chocolate.

5. Roll 2 teaspoons dough into a ball and place, 3cm apart, on trays. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon and press nut mixture gently into dough. Bake for 12-15 minutes until cooked but still soft in the centre.

Cool on trays for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Insect Word Scramble All of the scrambled words below are names of insects you have probably heard about. Can you put the letters in the right order to spell 19 different insect names correctly?

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