Chamberlain Gardens Winter 2017 Newsletter - Christadelphian Aged Care

C h ristade lph ia n A g e d C a re

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W I N T E R

N E W S L E T T E R

CHAMBERLAIN GARDENS Address: 53-67 Chamberlain Rd, Wyoming NSW 2250 Phone: (02) 4329 8000 Email: admin@chomes.com.au

Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and

WARMTH for the touch of a friendly hand and a talk beside the fire: it is the time for

HOME - Edith Sitwell

Manager’s Message Welcome to Chamberlain Gardens

Welcome to the Winter 2017 edition of our newsletter.

As I write this message, the colder mornings are announcing that winter is just around the corner and with it, we need to guard against cold and flu viruses.

I am also celebrating my first anniversary as the Facility Manager and want to thank you all for the welcome you have shown to me. It has been a very busy year, with Accreditation late last year and I am pleased to say we did well.

We have also received the results of a resident lifestyle survey from November 2016 and I’m pleased to say that we rated well in the areas of cleaning and laundry services, our care approach and accommodation and living.

However, there is always room for improvement and we are introducing a new staff education and mentoring program for this purpose.

Since our last newsletter, we’ve celebrated Christmas, Easter, Anzac Day and Mother’s Day. Our next celebration will be the Christmas in July Resident & Relatives Nibbles Night – from 5.30pm on Wednesday, July 26 in the Horizon lounge. We look forward to seeing you there.

We’ve also welcomed some new staff, including Mark Vickers, who is the new Pastoral Care and Volunteer Coordinator, and launched a new culture change program for our staff. For more information on this see page 8 of the newsletter.

Kind Regards, Sue Thacker

News & Upcoming Events UPCOMING EVENTS JUNE

JULY

AUGUST

JUNE

Coastal

Coastal

Coastal

3rd - GMS Minstrel’s Concert

11 Phyllis Elliot

24 Elizabeth Anderson

12 Marjorie Gillies

14 June Hayes

5th - Lavender Blue Concert

28 Louise Gale Garden

JULY

Garden

Garden

8th - Open Day: 1-4pm Variety stalls, sausage sizzle, tours every half hour through the facility, face painting

10 June Le Roy

4 Julia Parsons

18 Faye Fish

12 Gwen Hunt

7 Ivan Skinner

25 Val Eggleton

26th - Christmas in July Drinks & Nibbles Evening

15 Geoff Clarke

14 Kathleen Browne

29 Tim Drysdale

AUGUST 9th - Julz Concert

21 June Gould 24 Val Bailey 24 John Gaeta 28 Miriam Beveridge Horizon 8 Irene Dimmock 13 Maureen Thomson 14 Judith Jansson 16 Joyce Tedder

Horizon

Horizon

7 Beryl Richards

8 Marjorie Eves

13 Darrell Eastlake 17 Joy Thompson 17 Beverly Turner 19 Phyllis Nieuwendyk 27 Margaret 20 Gladys James Fellowes

17 Bruce Lines

29 Keith Huntley

23 Loretta Jew

31 Anastasia Ur

23 John Reading

Keep updated with all the latest news and photos by “liking” us on Facebook!

facebook.com/ christadelphianagedcare

Activity Reviews MARCH The month of March started with a concert from a new entertainer Claire Haze, who replaced our regular Julz, who was sick on the day. Claire was a big hit with our residents and we will be having her back later in the year.

The Antiques Roadshow entertained the residents on Friday, March 3. They are a trio of men who got together after they retired, and hold a couple of concerts yearly.

Our residents were busy this month making St Patricks Day decorations, which we used to decorate the three areas.

On St Patricks Day, the residents were treated to a green colour-coded morning tea; in the afternoon we had drinks and nibbles along with an Irish singalong. Lots of laughs and enjoyment was had by all.

Evan Haswell, a popular entertainer and a regular, entertained the residents on Monday, March 20. Evan has been coming for a number of years now, and is always enjoyable, as he interacts well with the residents and usually has them singing along with him.

On Monday, March 27 we were visited by the Mobile Unit from Taronga Zoo. This was a lovely and very popular visit with the residents being educated and interacting with the reptiles and animals they bought to the Home from the zoo. Unfortunately, no giraffe this time!

Activity Reviews MARCH

CONTINUED

We held our last barbecue lunch for the men in March as April the weather was not good and with winter approaching the weather is too cold to be outside for lunch. We try to offer the men a different lunch each month; this month was hotdogs and chips as per requested by the men, washed down with a beer or lemonade and followed by an ice-cream cone. A big thank you must go out to the volunteers that help on that day, we couldn’t do it without you.

APRIL The group Lavender Blue entertained the residents on Monday, April 3. This group of ladies used to come and entertain some years ago, and have only just regrouped after having had a break.

On Thursday, April 6, the residents were visited by the kindy and year one children from Valley View Primary School for their Easter Hat Parade. Some of the children were so tiny, they looked too young to be at school, but put such a big smile on our residents’ faces with their visit and their big “Happy Easter” as they went from room to room showing off their Easter Hats.

T h e Easter

Bunny paid all our residents a visit on Easter Sunday, leaving every resident a bag of Easter eggs.

Mark Wheatley was here to entertain on Friday, April 7.

Mark sings mostly country and western music, and is very popular with our residents.

Activity Reviews APRIL

CONTINUED

On Sunday, April 9 we were visited by the Vintage Bike Club. They were here to show off their motorbikes, while having morning tea with the residents. We were blessed with a lovely sunny morning. One of our residents, Evelyn Byrne, had never been on a motorbike, so at the age of 92 she got to sit on a vintage Harley, much to her delight.

Our monthly Anglican Church services, which were held on a Wednesday, have now been changed to the third Thursday of the month. This was changed to suit the minister who visits.

The Gals entertained on Wednesday April 19 - they sign along to music and it’s lovely to watch the residents sign along with The Gals.

On Monday April 24, we held a very moving ANZAC service in the car park in front of the flag pole. Again, the weather was beautiful and the service was well attended by residents, staff and family members. The kitchen made and provided ANZAC biscuits which were handed out after the service. A big thanks must go to: the RAOs for setting up the venue and running the service, to Sue Thacker for being on flag duty, Stuart Muir for reading the prayer, to volunteer Brian, a veteran from the Vietnam War, for laying the wreath, to staff and volunteers for ensuring everyone who wanted to attend was there, and lastly to the kitchen for the cold drinks and biscuits.

Activity Reviews MAY May saw the RAOs change sections, so we are starting to get to know our residents well. We welcomed on staff Leanne Hutchinson as our new RAO after RAO Val Howard retired. We wish Val all the best travelling around the continent and hope Leanne enjoys working as part of the Chamberlain Gardens team.

Julz was back to entertain after a short illness and we were pleased to have her back and singing better than ever.

All our mothers here at Chamberlain Gardens received a gift Sunday morning for Mother’s Day on May 14. It’s a special day, with many mothers going out or being visited by family.

On Thursday May 18, a group of our hard working volunteers went down to the St George Sailing Club at San Souci for their annual luncheon to thank them for all their hard work and support over the year. We would not be able to hold half of our activities without the volunteers help and support. They are a valuable part of the team.

On Wednesday, May 24 we had a visit from the band Loss Bonkers, and they had everyone up and either dancing or tapping their feet along to the music.

On Thursday, May 25 we held our Biggest Morning Tea, which we hold every year, where the funds of a gold coin donation go towards research for a cure to cancer. There were some lovely cakes and biscuits which were bought along by staff, thank you once again.

Horizon High Tea

Cupcake Decorating

Activities - Photos Pet Therapy with Winston

Craft

Sing Hands Concert Bus Outing

Pulse: Intentional Culture Program PULSE IN A NUTSHELL Christadelphian Aged Care has taken the step to create an intentional culture with our staff to improve our already high standard of care delivery and make our organisation a happy and motivating place to live and work.

Our aim is to continue to improve our service and quality of care and are committed to developing a staff culture that delivers success in all areas of our organisation.

We have partnered with Pulse Australasia to lead us in building a culture based around our “signature” behaviours. Pulse will support us to promote and actively demonstrate the desired behaviours. To make sure we are progressing staff complete a survey three times a year to monitor the change in our culture.

The program is designed to transform the culture of our organisation and improve both the experiences and productivity of staff while at work and therefore our business performance.

CEO Ross Peden launched the program and our signature behaviours on April 26, 2017 with simultaneous events across all our Homes, Villages and offices.

CAC SIGNATURE BEHAVIOURS CAC employees have collectively committed to demonstrate four signature behaviours: WE ALWAYS WORK TO DELIGHT OUR RESIDENTS UNDERSTAND, SOLVE AND DELIVER DO WHAT WE SAY WE WILL DO WORK TOGETHER, ACHIEVE TOGETHER The behaviours have been associated with a butterfly as a symbol of transformation. An icon on each wing of the butterfly neatly illustrates each behaviour.

The program is positive and fun, and all staff can contribute and recognise when their peers do the right thing.

SPONSORSHIP & SUPPORT FOR THE PROGRAM The program is sponsored by the Board of Directors and the Senior Executives of CAC. A Culture Steering Committee has also been formed, they work with Pulse Australasia to provide oversight of the program, and support managers and Advocates along the way.

ADVOCATES & PULSE CULTURE PROGRAM The signature behaviours are promoted by Advocates (staff) at each Home, Village and office, with fun activities conducted to ensure we are all encouraged to live the behaviours. The Advocates support staff to understand and undertake the culture change we are committed to.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR RESIDENTS & RELATIVES? You will see posters and “butterflies” around our Homes and Villages to promote and remind us of the signature behaviours. You may hear staff talking about “Pulse” and “Signature Behaviours” and see them involved in various activities to develop their ability to demonstrate the behaviours.

Please feel free to encourage staff or compliment them when you see the right behaviours – we are all focused on looking out for more of the positive.

Feel free to ask the Facility Manager any questions about the program or the signature behaviours.

We welcome your support as we take an intentional step on our exciting culture change journey.

Pulse Launch - Photos

Pulse Launch - Photos

Staff Profile - Enola Grace Lapod Grace was born in Jakarta, Indonesia in February, 1963. She has always been interested in different cultures and travelling, and learning new things. Grace spent two years living in East Africa in her early teens before moving to England for one year. At the age of 20, Grace came to Australia to study to become a makeup artist, fell in love with the country and decided to call Australia home. Grace married in 1989 and became a mother to her three beautiful boys.

As well as raising her boys, Grace kept herself busy doing cooking demonstrations at parties and studied at Wyong TAFE for her Certificate 3 in Food Study. Grace was always interested in makeup and beauty so studied and completed a diploma in Beauty Therapy. Upon completion of her certificate Grace was offered a position managing a Day Spa at the Grace Hotel in Sydney.

That job lasted for five years, as Grace had to travel back home to look after and care for her ill mother until her mother’s death. Caring for her mother inspired Grace to study nursing.

Three years ago Grace completed her Cert 3 AIN, and started work at Chamberlain Gardens after having completed work experience at the Home. Grace says she has finally found her path in life: “If I can make the residents smile today, then that is my happiness�. A smile works.

Laughter is the Best Medicine

love

1 John 3:18

Pastoral Care

Let us not with word or speech but with actions and in truth

FEELING DISCONTENT? It was the famous bard who left us with the idea that “discontent” was like Winter. I guess, for those who are discontented or live with constant pain and disability, life does seem bleak and even dark.

The image that the winters of Europe or North America conjure up often seems to include an old man trudging through the snow with a load of firewood on his back. The image has the contrast of black and white, of beauty and severity.

Winter in other parts of the world can be quite different. In Australia, for instance, this is the time when the Grey Nomads, among others, are blown like falling leaves across the top end and the centre of this wide brown land because it is more tolerable to be out in these areas at this time of year.

So, like so many areas of life, Winter means different things to different people.

Winter does seem to be about the end of a cycle and the changes that happen in nature. It reminds us of our part in that cycle, especially so for those who farm or garden. It has come to be viewed as a time of rest.

To office workers or tradesmen and women, Winter might be about getting up in the dark and driving home in the dark. To outdoor workers, it might mean much more pleasant working conditions; and to retirees, it might mean opportunities to be out in the clear crisp weather to have that picnic or make that visit to friends which was not encouraged by the hot weather of other seasons. And then there is always the football…

In Aged Care Homes, we may not be very far from times of discontent. Viewed from outside, it may seem good to be able to spend long hours in bed and to have all meals provided – but colder weather can be limiting and painful. The job of Pastoral Carers is not changed by the weather. The stories still come and the temptation to respond by just saying “cheer up” to others is still present.

It might be the task for others, but living in a constant Winter can be depressing (as residents of European cities sometimes find). Many say “it does not hurt to leave a smile”; but Our deepest sympathies have ignoring the feelings behind a story will not leave a smile for gone out to the families who very long. The feeling of being heard is a constant support for have lost their loved ones us all. To leave a sense that “I have been understood” is the over the Autumn period. best warming sensation that we all can feel.

Bereavements

God leaves a message of love in whatever circumstances we find ourselves. He gives the promise of healing and renewal, of a new creation, a springtime of beauty and release, of being born again. We can each be born again by the shedding of our discontent; by living each moment as if it is a gift, by forgetting to worry about the past and by placing the future in the hands of the One who makes the weather.

By Ron Wiggins, Pastoral Carer, Courtlands

Volunteer Corner I would like to say, as one of the newer staff members, that I am truly grateful for the opportunity to work at Chamberlain Gardens and to serve and get to know all of our residents on a more personal and spiritual level.

My newly appointed role as the Volunteer and Pastoral Care Coordinator has been a fascinating and very rewarding role. I always feel a great sense of honour when someone lets me into their life and I often come away hoping to achieve half of what our residents achieved in their own lives.

My previous role prior to working at Chamberlain Gardens gave me an opportunity to help others, from working with children who have disabilities to helping those in aged care regain some independence and mobility. The compassion and understanding I refine in that role are what I am bringing to my new position.

Since 1993, I have been a resident on the Central Coast. I live in Lisarow with my wife and two young boys, Daniel who is 10 and Ben who is 5 years old. We all attend the local Christadelphian Church and my wife and I have been active members for over twenty years now.

I'm still working on getting to know all the residents of Chamberlain Gardens, and I will always be keen to talk to anyone at any level hope to see you all soon.

If you are interested in joining the Volunteer program, please do not hesitate to contact me:

Mark Vickers on 4329 8000 or mvickers@chomes.com.au Volunteer & Pastoral Care Coordinator

Read, Rest & Relax!

HOW TO COPE DURING THE WINTER MONTHS! 1. Dress Warmly - If you are venturing outside for appointments, a walk or a spot of gardening, layer up. Two to three layers of clothing is more effective than one heavy layer. Consider investing in quality thermals. Every wardrobe should have a hat or beanie, gloves, scarf, socks, coat/jacket.

2. Be aware of changes to outdoor surfaces - Many outdoor surfaces can become slippery during the winter months. Moss tends to develop on the ground in certain areas, and wet surfaces are slower to dry. Be on the lookout for regularly wet, slippery areas like stairs and pathways. Wear appropriate footwear with non-skid soles. Check that the rubber base on canes and walker frames are in optimal condition and replace the rubber if worn.

3. Heat the home safely - During the winter months, we all tend to heat our home environments.

Be aware that heaters and fireplaces can leak dangerous levels of carbon monoxide if not properly ventilated. This gas can’t be seen or smelled. Keep an eye out for the following warning signs that could signal excessive amounts of this gas in your home: Headaches, nausea or vomiting, confusion, blurred vision or weakness.

4. Make meal time joyful and healthy - We know with winter comes the temptation to eat high carbohydrate, starchy and sugary foods that require minimum effort to prepare. Why not spice up your meal preparation experience with your loved one – put your favourite music on, fire up the • Broccoli • Pumpkin stove or oven and create a hearty winter soup or casserole. • Carrot • Celery • Avocado • Spinach Winter vegetables you can include in slow cooked • Fennel • Okra • Sweet winter meals are: • Kale • Parsnip potato 5. Stay hydrated - Did you know it is just as easy to dehydrate in the winter months? This is because we spend much of our time in heated environments (indoors with heaters, reverse-cycled air conditioners, fireplaces), but with less emphasis on drinking sufficient amounts of fluids.

6. Stay physically active - The temptation to opt for a more sedentary lifestyle in front of the fireplace or heater during the winter months is enticing. However inactivity, coupled with reduced daylight time can contribute to mental health issues such as mood swings and depression.

Chicken Soup • 4 (about 900g) chicken thigh cutlets, skinned • 1 large brown onion, halved, finely chopped • 1 large carrot, peeled, finely chopped • 1 celery stick, trimmed, finely chopped • 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh continental parsley stems • 6 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves picked • 2L (8 cups) water • 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns • Sea salt flakes • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh continental parsley, extra

1. Combine chicken, onion, carrot, celery, garlic, parsley, thyme, water and peppercorns in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 40 minutes or until vegetables are very tender.

2. Use tongs to transfer the chicken to a clean work surface. Hold with tongs and cut the chicken meat from the bones. Discard bones.

Tear the chicken meat and add to the soup.

3. Taste and season with sea salt. Ladle soup among serving bowls. Sprinkle with extra parsley and serve immediately.

Serves 4

Snowflake Sudoku Snowflake Sudoku

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Difficulty: CHALLENGING Answer from last newsletters Word Scramble: “A funny bunny” Copyright © 2012-2013 2010-2011 by Education.com

More worksheets at www.education.com/worksheets

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

You’re Invited to our Christmas in July Nibbles Night th

on Wednesday 26

from 5.30 pm in the Horizon TV Lounge ALL WELCOME!