Contents CEO’s Word – Jennene Buckley
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Feros Care overcoming boundaries
2
Sevenstar© graduation
4
My Health Clinic At Home in full flight
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Top Tips
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Feros Hero - Margaret Fisher
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Feros Friendly Visitors Program
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Community
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Residential
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Feros Family Fun
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Feros Community Gateway Contact & Referral Centre Ph: 1300 763 583
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Feros Village Bangalow
LifeLink Telehealthcare
Fax: 1300 850 770 Email: community@feroscare.com.au
6 Byron Bay Road (PO Box 329) Bangalow NSW 2479 Ph: 02 6687 2379 Fax: 02 6687 2286 Email: bangalow@feroscare.com.au
Feros Care Business Centre
Feros Village Byron Bay
Showcase on the Beach 72-80 Marine Parade (Locked Bag 1) Coolangatta QLD 4225 Ph: 1300 851 771 Fax: 1300 850 770 Email: info@lifelinkresponse.com.au
Showcase on the Beach 72-80 Marine Parade (Locked Bag 1) Coolangatta QLD 4225 Ph: 07 5669 0555 Fax: 07 5536 7520 Email: info@feroscare.com.au www.feroscare.com.au
Cnr Marvel & Cowper Streets (PO Box 585) Byron Bay NSW 2481 Ph: 02 6685 7676 Fax: 02 6685 5176 Email: byron@feroscare.com.au
At Home Services Regional Offices Hobart Melbourne Port Macquarie Pottsville Sydney Tewantin Ph: 1300 763 583
www.feroscare.com.au Join us on Facebook www.facebook.com/feroscare
Feros Village Wommin Bay McKissock Drive Kingscliff NSW 2487 Ph: 02 6674 4177 Fax: 02 6674 4171 Email: wommin@feroscare.com.au
Feros Care Health & Wellness Showcase on the Beach 72-80 Marine Parade (Locked Bag 1) Coolangatta QLD 4225 Ph: 1300 085 181 Fax: 1300 850 770 Email: wellness@feroscare.com.au
CEO’s WORD
Welcome to the Summer - Autumn edition of Feros Magazine. I have recently celebrated my 13th year with Feros Care. Like all milestones, it is a chance to reflect and commemorate. I’m proud to celebrate my journey with Feros Care but particularly want to acknowledge the achievements of 2013, which was surely the most successful year in the 23 years of our organisation. Our success in 2013 was highlighted by winning the single largest allocation of new community home care packages nationally. Staff, volunteers, managers and the Board have dedicated themselves to creating something different and special in aged care which is being acknowledged with this significant achievement. In 2013 we also saw the commencement of a number of programs including new home care package services in Victoria, Tasmania, Sydney and Darling Downs. We also pioneered the rollout of our My Health Clinic At Home telehealth technology; launched a new Allied HomeHealth Service, began the community volunteers program and proudly held the first graduation ceremony for the sevenstar © Staff Development program.
Shirley Nelson
Keith Castle
We also celebrated the achievements of our two longest serving board members and past chairs Shirley Nelson (served 23 years) and Keith Castle (served 20 years) who retired in 2013. Both Shirley and Keith’s dedication and leadership has shaped Feros into a well governed, strategic, mission focused, international award winning not-for-profit company. Two outstanding people who will be sadly missed. We congratulate and thank them for everything they have contributed to Feros Care. 2014 is set to be another exciting year, with the 2013 – 2016 strategic plan set in motion. Stay tuned, we will be unveiling our new bold, exciting initiatives in our next issue. In the meantime, Happy New Year and a big thank you to the Feros community – we look forward to celebrating ageing with you throughout 2014. Regards
Jennene Buckley, CEO
My Health Clinic At Home
Allied HomeHealth Service
Feros magazine
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SMALL PLAYER punches above its weight.
Feros Care overcoming boundaries From humble beginnings in Byron Bay just over 20 years ago, Feros Care has grown into one of Australia's most successful non-profit aged care providers. It is leading the way, showing how a local Byron Bay community organisation can think big, overcome geographical boundaries, be a technology leader and still retain its Byron Bay character of doing things differently. While far from being the largest provider, Feros Care has become an aged care industry leader, especially in the use of Telecare and Telehealth technologies, having identified early on that technology was the most cost effective way to improve community aged care services to seniors in their own homes. The organisation has already fitted out over 1000 'smart homes' with Telecare and Telehealth technology that helps their elderly occupants continue living at home by providing a higher degree of independence, control and safety. As a Telehealth leader, Feros Care has also provided over 100 clients in NBN-enabled areas with computers so they
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can speak face-to-face with their healthcare professionals (including our Telehealth nurses), family and friends, and the equipment to monitor their vital signs and wellness remotely.
IN THE 2013 AGED CARE APPROVALS ROUND (ACAR) FUNDING ALLOCATION, FEROS CARE WAS AWARDED THE SINGLE LARGEST FUNDING AMOUNT IN AUSTRALIA
The medium sized aged care organisation began as a single nursing home in 1990, serving Byron Bay, and is named after George Feros, a migrant from the Greek island of Kythera. George was a well known Byron identity, spending much of his later years walking around Byron, ringing a bell and asking for donations to build the care home. While Mr Feros sadly died before his dream was realised, it was completed by a group of committed locals led by Shirley Nelson, the matron of Byron Bay's hospital at the time, who earned an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) two years later for her dedication to nursing and the community.
FEROS CARE IS NOW DELIVERING HOME CARE TO 8 NEW SERVICE AREAS In the 2013 Aged Care Approvals Round (ACAR) funding allocation, Feros Care was awarded the single largest funding amount in Australia, allowing it to expand delivery of its innovative, award-winning home care services into new regions. Following the Department of Health and Ageing's competitive ACAR process, which favours the provider who best demonstrates it can meet the needs of an area's ageing population, Feros Care is now delivering home care to 8 new service areas covering Toowoomba and surrounds, northern Sydney, Melbourne, Bendigo, Geelong, and Tasmania.
George Feros
Feros Care can now deliver its own unique Byron Model of care to older people in 17 regions across Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales and Queensland. Feros Care's Byron Model combines the latest thinking on how aged care should be absolutely client-centred, helping older people live their chosen lifestyle to the fullest by staying independent, active and socially connected. This holistic approach supports overall wellness in every sense, drawing on the principles of positive psychology including restorative care and active ageing, well known approaches to aged care based on combating three key concerns – boredom, helplessness and loneliness – that commonly affect people in older age.
Bundaberg
QLD
Hervey Bay
Gympie
Toowoomba
Caboolture Brisbane Ipswich Nerang
Murwillumbah Bangalow Kyogle Grafton
Noosa Redcliffe Surfers Paradise Coolangatta Tweed Heads Byron Bay Ballina Yamba Coffs Harbour Port Macquarie
NSW
Forster
Sydney
Bendigo
VIC Melbourne
Geelong
Our expansion into new regions meant new Care Managers and cars!
Launceston
TAS
Feros Care now delivers services in 17 regions across four different states of Australia.
Hobart
Feros magazine
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CLASS OF
2013
SEVENSTAR PROGRAM
GRADUATES 4
Summer/Autumn 2014
c
Graduates (from left) Suzanne Knight, Elizabeth Morris, Carol Taylor, Jo Williams, Shirley Scott, Sharyn Poole, Andrea Dower, Wendy Anderson, Diane Hall, Susan Lowe.
FEROS CARE RECENTLY CELEBRATED THE INAUGURAL GRADUATION FOR OUR UNIQUE SEVENSTAR© STAFF DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM. THIS INVOLVED 20 STAFF GRADUATING FROM A 3 YEAR, 21 SUBJECT, 38 WORKSHOP COURSE BASED SOLELY ON FEROS CARE’S CORPORATE VALUES. The first graduates participating were from a cross section of the organisation including nurses, residential care staff, community care staff, managers, chaplain and administration. The Sevenstar program is a course that supports Feros's commitment to promote lifelong learning and to invest in staff both personally and professionally. The program builds skills in innovative thinking, mentoring, project management,
lifelong learning, sustainability, service excellence and covers many topics including positive workplace strategies and wellness. Sevenstar challenges staff from all levels of the organisation to build skills that are not normally in mainstream aged care education programs. The program is focused on Feros Care’s core company values with the intent of strengthening our staff members’ skills, knowledge base and building our future company leaders.
We are very proud of our Sevenstar graduates! Congratulations to all! With a new Sevenstar class enrolled for 2014 - this innovative program is destined to produce some new shining Feros stars!
Graduates (from lef) Back row: Jan Coughey, Devina Kustic, Ingrid Gottschalk, David Horner, Karen Smith, Kerrie Campbell, Karen Frankel. Seated: Jo Cooke Feros magazine
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FEROS CARE CLIENTS SERVICE The Department of Health and Ageing conducted their regular Quality Reporting Audit of Feros Care in September 2013. Over two days, two staff from the Department conducted audit meetings, interviews and reviews. The auditing staff specifically reviewed the quality of the service provision for Feros Care’s NSW Community Care services including Home and Community Care (HACC), all other community packaged care and the National Respite for Carers Program (NRCP).
Justin Wall and Anthony Bacon met with the Department's auditors
Feros Care received fantastic results and feedback from the Department auditors. They were particularly impressed by the way in which Feros Care delivers its services and the quality of care provided, as evidenced in the comments received from clients, interviewed by the auditors. Whilst this is a fabulous result for Feros Care as an organisation, it is more importantly a very strong result for clients and their families who can have full confidence that the service and experience delivered is of Feros Care's superior quality.
Below is just some of the feedback from the auditors: 1
Feros Care is an organisation focused on continuous quality improvement.
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Feros Care client assessments are very comprehensive. The way Feros Care Managers translate the assessment into service delivery plans with clients who outline their goals is the best they have ever seen.
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Feros Care IT framework is astounding.
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Feros Care’s NBN Telehealth, My Health Clinic At Home program is fantastic and breaking new boundaries.
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Feros Care workers interviewed, demonstrated commitment to their work with clients and they feel supported by their managers.
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Many of Feros Care clients interviewed gave scores including 100/10 and 12/10.
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Feros Care clients also reported that care staff go above and beyond.
In summary the results again showcase Feros Care's ongoing commitment to outstanding industry performance and leadership. 6
Summer/Autumn 2014
My Health Clinic
at home
pilot PROGRAM IN FULL FLIGHT! Feros Care’s NBN (National Broadband Network) Enabled Telehealth pilot in Coffs Harbour has now been in progress for over six months. The pilot program is being staged in Coffs Harbour involving 200 senior participants with a chronic condition, monitoring their vital signs from their home. Seniors participating in the pilot are provided with the NBN connection, health monitoring service and required computer and equipment for free. This backed with fully supported education and training on how to use the equipment, allowing participants direct access to Telehealth nurses, and other health professionals via video conferencing. Feros Care is thrilled by the community demand to participate in the pilot and has received 262 referrals to go onto the “My Health Clinic At Home” (MHCAH) pilot. Of those, 153 clients have had their assessment completed and over 100 have already been connected to the NBN and are using their “My Health Clinic At Home” computer and monitoring equipment to take their vital signs on a daily basis. The remaining assessed clients are ready and waiting to get the NBN connected to their home to participate in the trial.
WE ARE HAPPY TO REPORT OUR PILOT SENIORS ARE MYTHBUSTERS! IF YOU THOUGHT OLDIES AND TECHNOLOGY CAN’T WORK TOGETHER, THEN THINK AGAIN. All of our participants are actively using their touchscreen tablets with ease. They are taking their own vital signs at home, interacting via video conferencing direct to our Telehealth nurses almost every day, and some are even doing “virtual consultations” with their doctor. In the first 6 months of the pilot our seniors had conducted 255 video conferences, once again defying all misconceptions that seniors are not tech-savvy! From our mid pilot survey interviews conducted by Southern Cross University, results are showing that participants are having a positive experience and most importantly feeling more in control of their health condition.
Jennene Buckley demonstrates MHCAH to referral agencies in Coffs Harbour.
The “My Health Clinic At Home” pilot continues until the end of June 2014 and we look forward to updating you on the final evaluation by the end of 2014. If you are interested in our Telehealth service or have any questions please call the Feros Care LifeLink team on 1300 851 771 Feros magazine
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TO BEAT 5 tips the
HEAT
Summer heat can be scorching in Australia and many people fall victim to heat-related illnesses including heat stress and dehydration. Don’t let the heat beat you. Follow these simple tips to staying healthy during long, hot days.
1 Drink water - Rising temperatures can increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses, so it’s vital to keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water in the summer months. Drink constantly throughout the day - waiting until you feel thirsty may mean you are already becoming dehydrated. Limit caffeine and alcohol intake, as it can dehydrate your body further.
2 Eat well - It’s important to maintain a healthy diet, even if your appetite decreases in the hotter months. Australian Government guidelines recommend daily serves of protein, vegetables, fruits, cereals, and dairy. Eating foods like fruits and vegetables which have a high water content can also increase your fluid level. Eat small meals throughout the day to keep up energy.
3 Stay cool - Stay indoors during the
warmest hours of the day (between 10am and 2pm), with blinds or curtains closed to keep rooms cool. Make sure you use a fan if you have one, or if you do use an air conditioner, set it at 24 degrees. This will reduce the effect heat has on your body if you go outside. Taking cool baths or showers during the heat of the day, or swimming in the early morning can help keep your body temperature from rising too high.
4 Wear light clothing - Avoid leaving the house during the hottest hours of the day. If you have to go outside, wear loose, breathable clothes and a wide-brimmed hat. Remember to apply sunscreen and carry a water bottle with you.
5 Keep in touch - Stay in regular contact with friends and neighbours who can monitor you. Also consider a personal alarm linked to a 24/7 response centre in case you need help at any time.
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HOME ALONE OVER SUMMER?
Don’t Fret
The summer holiday season can often see your family and friends away, which can leave you feeling anxious, lonely and isolated. But with a bit of planning with your family, friends and other social services, those feelings can be alleviated to make sure you are monitored and supported while loved ones are away.
Here are some simple tips:-
•
If you live alone, one vital tip is to ensure you have a personal alarm. Personal alarms can provide 24/7 contact with a response centre who will assist you with any mishaps, anxiety or serious illness you may experience. You only need to press the button on your pendant or the base alarm and the operator will speak to you in your home and stay on the phone until your need for help is resolved. This back up provides peace of mind 24/7, particularly if your normal support networks are away or not contactable.
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You and your family may wish to consider respite – either in your home or at a residential village. Generally you will need an Aged Care Assessment to access respite, however you may wish to investigate private services as well.
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Be sure to notify other family contacts who may be able to check in with you regularly, provide company or just simply call to make sure you are well.
In addition to the above tips, here are some practical steps you can make yourself to boost your mood whilst family are away:-
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Keep active: It can be hard to find the motivation during the hot summer months, but studies show the benefits aren’t just physical. Exercise releases endorphins which produce feelings of happiness and can reduce anxiety and stress. If it’s too hot to take a walk outside, try strolling through an air conditioned shopping centre if you’re mobile, or even do some gentle exercise at home in front of the fan. Make sure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
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Stay in touch: Feeling lonely over the holiday season can lead to a decline in your overall physical and mental wellbeing, so it’s important to keep in contact with close friends and family who are still around your neighbourhood. If you have neighbours or friends who are also alone, plan activities you can do together to keep each other company.
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Spoil yourself: Take time to treat yourself to something you enjoy. It may be watching your favourite movie, completing a large jigsaw puzzle or reading that book you’ve been meaning to start for ages. Whatever you do, it will have a positive effect on your mood.
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Get Creative: If you are crafty now may be the time to release that creativity. But your imagination does not have to be limited to craft. Consider starting a new hobby or project – what a great way to start the new year!
If you’re alone at home and feel you need more assistance, Feros Care’s dedicated team can help keep you healthy, active and motivated while your family is away. Services may include domestic, personal or nursing care, wellness and lifestyle activities. For more information about the eligibility requirements for Feros Care At Home, ring our Aged Care Advisory Team on 1300 763 583. Feros Care’s LifeLink service offers a range of products including personal alarms. Please call them on 1300 851 771 to arrange for a quote and installation. Feros magazine
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Feros Heroes Margaret Fisher
At Feros Care, we are all about Celebrating Ageing. 2014 sees the launch of our Feros Heroes - a new initiative recognising & celebrating those individuals who as role models are contributing to our community in an active and positive way. Our Feros Heroes are recognised for inspiring us, surprising us and embracing our “get bold, not old” ethos.
This edition we celebrate 83-year-old, Feros Hero Margaret Fisher. Margaret competed in the World Super Seniors Tennis Championships in Austria this past September. She competed in the singles, doubles and mixed doubles, reaching the singles quarter finals. Guest feature journalist, Mick O’Regan caught up with Margaret and gives us a better insight into this inspiring character.
T
he way Margaret Fisher moves across a tennis court you can tell she’s no novice. There’s a spring in her step and quickness to her pace. She sums it up in a moment. “I’m fitter now than I was in my fifties!” Her smile becomes a laugh as she adds, “You can be too, you just have to keep doing!” At 83 she retains the style and agility of a player from a younger generation. Not to mention the competitive spirit! So it comes as no surprise to learn she once played at Wimbledon, striding the courts at the All England Tennis Club.
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“Oh, it was magical!” she laughs, “Free strawberries and cream, a lift home after the game in a brand new Daimler and dancing at the Players’ Ball. What a time it was!” Sixty years later Margaret is still on the move and that’s the way she likes it. Being fit, focused and energised by her interests is the way Margaret Fisher lives her life. As far as she’s concerned being in your eighties offers some truly precious gifts. “What you’ve got to look forward to in your eighties is peace of mind. And you can be fit and get fitter,”she declares.
It comes down to attitude and having a healthy sense of self-respect. On this point Margaret is without a doubt: “You must be interested in yourself and your life. You must be interested in asking ‘what next today, what am I going to do today?’ That’s when you spark that interest in yourself. You can be alive and alert and you can do new things or renew old interests. There are just so many things that older people in their eighties can do.” She insists you shouldn’t limit yourself, but instead get thinking about the opportunities that await: “You can visit people, you can pick up your knitting even if you thought you’d lost the skill. Try crocheting, it’s just beautiful the work you can do. Try everything! Learn to paint, learn to draw. There are so many things you can do just by picking up your pastels. You’ve just got to keep doing though, that’s what you’ve got to do.
Above: Margaret Fisher and over 80s doubles partner Marj Niccol at the World Super Seniors Tennis Championships in Austria last year.
Growing older has other, less tangible gifts as well. For Margaret the wisdom of her senior years has let her reflect on what’s really important. She’s typically resolute on this topic as well. You have to show kindness, generosity and, where you can, look after people. Leaning back in her chair she pauses for just a moment and says with great conviction, “Kindness keeps you level. Kindness gives you perspective on where you sit as regards where the others sit. Kindness is being able to look at those asylum seekers and think, “Well, we all came here to this country.” Kindness is being able to think ‘Yeah we can move over a bit, we can allow this to happen. We can be a bit generous.’ It’s a gentle thing kindness but it’s also a firm thing. It’s being able to reach out and just give a lift to someone if they need it.” Margaret sums it all up in this way: “There’s a whole world out there. It’s just so lovely to wake up each morning and get up and go. Just do. And be kind to others. I know it sounds corny but it’s true.”
Feros magazine
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Feeling Blue... Depression Isn’t A Normal Part Of Ageing In the last edition of FEROS Magazine we featured an article on “Why Depression isn’t a normal part of ageing” – an article that was very well received by many of our readers. With the holiday season upon us it is a timely reminder to be aware and in tune with how you are feeling emotionally. Looking after your mental health is just as important as your physical health as they complement each other. One great user friendly resource available to all seniors is www.beyondblue.org.au with easy access to information and support. Beyondblue is an organisation that is working to reduce the impact of depression and anxiety in the senior community by raising awareness and understanding, empowering people to seek help and supporting recovery, management and resilience. If you are suffering sadness or feeling down, can’t be bothered participating in activities you once enjoyed, experiencing unexplained aches and pains, then these could be signs of depression. Don’t ignore it.
At Feros we want to remind our clients that help is always available. If you are a Feros Care client and think you may have signs of depression or anxiety speak to your Care Manager today or call us on 1300 763 583.
www.beyondblue.org.au
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health & wellness
FEROS FRIENDLY
VISITOR’S PROGRAM
We are very excited to announce our new Feros Friendly Visitor’s program which will see our community volunteers spreading across the east coast of Australia. The program involves Feros volunteers spending real or ‘virtual’ time giving back to older people living in their own homes. Our Friendly Visitors have endless possibilities available to make a difference! Cards and chess are all-time favourites and so is having a great chat. Feros Friendly Visitors can also be innovators - connecting using new technologies like Skype, creating life story books and finding new ways to bring laughter and joy to our clients. If you are a Feros client who would like a friendly visitor, call our volunteer coordinator today on 1300 085 151
‘I’d love to make a difference’ Do you enjoy cards, movies or a good chat? Feros Care is seeking enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers that are genuinely interested in bringing laughter, companionship and purpose to the lives of our clients.
Being a Feros Care volunteer means: • Sharing your skills and experience • Giving back to your community
• Meeting new people • Opportunities to meet new people
With advancements in technology you could volunteer from anywhere by phone or using virtual communication like Skype.
How much time is required? This is completely up to you. It could be as little as 1 hour a fortnight.
Do you need experience or qualifications? Training and ongoing support is provided, to ensure you are confident in your new role.
How do you apply? Visit www.feroscare.com.au and click on the ‘Volunteer’ link on the home page, or Phone 1300 085 181 and register your interest today!
Be the change you want to see in the world Feros magazine
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C ommunity
Mark your diary 1-3 August 2014
Byron Bay Writers Festival The Byron Bay Writers Festival is a popular festival, attracting crowds of over 45,000 annually to its event. Held at the beautiful beachside location of Belongil, Byron Bay, this event showcases respected contemporary writers participating in lectures, panels, launches and readings. Feros Care, which also has its origins in Byron Bay, was a Platinum Sponsor of the 2013 event. Feros Care sponsored one of three main event marquees and utilised the opportunity to provide expert guest speakers on author panels, hosted an information tent and provided topical articles 'Celebrating Ageing' in the writers festival newsletter, in the lead up to the event. Gabriele Taylor, Feros Care Director of Community Services participated as a guest on several author panels discussing issues relating to dementia and ageing well: living well. Gabriele’s expertise on dispelling some common myths around ageing was well received and opened interesting forums for discussion. Feros Care's sponsorship of this event also provided an excellent opportunity to educate the “adult children” demographic and promote the lifestyle choices their ageing parents have available to them through organisations such as Feros Care.
Feros Care will continue celebrating ageing at the 2014 Byron Bay Writers Festival with plans already underway for an exciting program of authors, topics and discussion forums.
New Community Volunteer Service Launches Our first volunteer led transport service began in August 2013, providing a friendly and convenient door-to-door shopping bus service to clients living in Tweed Heads, Northern NSW. Planning is already underway to extend this service to other regions. The minibus service supports our clients living in their own homes by helping them to meet new people and gain easy access to shops and services. One of our shopping bus regulars Mrs Davidson says she “looks forward to the shopping bus trip and thoroughly enjoys it”. Another bus regular Mrs Barber agrees that the “service is excellent”, and she encourages other Feros clients to come along and get involved. Our newly recruited and trained volunteers are extraordinary people who genuinely care and have compassion for others. Volunteer minibus driver Kevin and volunteer transport assistant Marie often join the group for a cuppa after a hard day of shopping! “It’s a great group of people, very friendly” says driver Kevin. “It’s nice to be able to give back to the community”. Due to the popularity of the new shopping bus service the program also commenced a second community group outing to FABS – Fun Activities for Banora Point Seniors program. FABS is an enjoyable afternoon of arts and crafts, card games and exercise classes providing another outlet for seniors to meet new friends, learn new skills or revisit old ones.
Would you like to be a part of these community activities? Are you a Home and Community Care (HACC) client living in the Tweed Heads NSW region? Could you spare some hours to volunteer support for this program? To find out more or to book on the minibus, please contact Allied Health & Wellness on 1300 085 181.
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R esidential
pets welcome too For most people the thought of losing or being separated from a beloved pet who provides companionship and unconditional love, is heartbreaking. For those considering care either in their home or moving into residential care the worry of being forced to give away their pet can be traumatic. Decisions as to who will look after their pet can be very upsetting. Times have changed and that’s good news for pet owners, particularly for those seniors considering moving into aged care. No longer does it necessarily mean having to say goodbye to your furry companions (or not so furry as the case may be!). Feros Care’s Positive Living Coordinator, Jacquelyn Atkins explains how aged care and pets can work together, and the clear benefits of living with pets. “Caring for a pet can keep you mentally and physically healthy, with research suggesting pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression and, on average, have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Pets also offer love and companionship, decreasing stress, anxiety and feelings of loneliness or isolation,“ Jacquelyn explains. She says pets can also ease the transition from home to aged care. “Caring for a pet also maintains a sense of purpose and responsibility at a time when you may feel a loss of responsibility for day to day life.” Pets can also keep you fit and healthy through exercise. “The fabulous benefit of exercising your pet encourages you to remain active,” says Jacquelyn.
She explains that getting out and about with your pet “often opens up opportunities for social connections with other residents or other pet owners in the community.” For example, going to the dog-walking section of the beach or park regularly, or sharing pet stories with other pet owners opens up conversations and friendships. Studies have also shown that simply playing with pets can be beneficial, boosting neurotransmitters which help us feel loved, calm and relaxed. Staying active and playful with a pet will keep you feeling energised. Feros Care encourages pets at all residential villages and can also support clients living at home with pet care. Across our three Feros residential villages we have dogs, cats, budgies, rabbits, chooks, guinea pigs – all of varying size, colour and personalities – just like life really. So if you are considering care, remember to ask any potential providers about their pets policy.
David Horner and resident pet Brutus
Feros Care is committed to promoting your right to lifestyle choices and take great pride in including your pet pals! To find out more or arrange a visit to one of our residential villages please call us on 1300 763 583. Feros magazine
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Feros Care Celebrating Ageing and Christmas! Every Christmas the Feros Care staff and their children participate in a Christmas carol tour visiting the three Feros residential villages of Byron Bay, Bangalow and Wommin Bay at Kingscliff. The “talented” staff carollers travel to each of the villages to sing to the residents. For the staff it is a heartwarming event and a time to connect with residents – and for residents it's an opportunity to share in some Christmas spirit and enjoy traditional carols.
Feros Care, Positive Living Coordinator, Jacquelyn Atkins reported that the 2013 carols were once again a huge success for staff and residents alike. “Beginning at Byron Bay, the choir wove their way through the corridors of the cottages bringing cheer to the residents who were very forgiving of the lack of practice and keen to join in with the old favourites. Buoyed by their success, the carollers moved onto Bangalow where the vocal warm-up was paying off. The residential village burst with song and smiles. Completing the tour at Wommin Bay, the carollers were feeling as uplifted as the grateful audience”
Madagascar Project >>> Gains momentum For the residents of Feros Care, the Madagascar Project has taken on a life of its own. What started as a heart-warming activity for the children of an orphanage in Madagascar has migrated back onto the shores of Byron Bay with brand new initiatives. In 2013 the “Madagascar Project” won the Positive Living in Aged Care Award for its many benefits around socialising, learning new skills, passing on “my old man” skills and giving purpose to the day. Today, those positive outcomes are still being enjoyed by the Feros residents and in turn, those who are the beneficiaries of their crafty gifts. The most recent initiative by our residents was the creation of knitted “snuggle” bags for orphan babies of a different kind – this time baby joeys and wombats under the care of Animal Rescue Organisation WIRES. The knitting continues, with larger blankets and teddy bears donated to the local Salvation Army centre along with felt hand-sewn toiletry bags, wooden toy cars made by the men and other felt and fabric bags for the homeless. The evolution of the Madagascar project has been such a great example of our residents taking ownership of the activities they value, who they want to help in the community and actively contributing to helping those in need - a sensational initiative impacting the lives of many.
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A LETTER FROM...
Ruby
On 2 August I had the pleasure of visiting Feros Village, Wommin Bay. I was warmly welcomed by Amanda Harvey who showed me over the village. It was such a thrill to hear Amanda talk so passionately about the achievements of Feros at Wommin Bay. It is now 32 years since George died and left a legacy for his vision of aged care in Byron Bay.
I was pleased to read Jennene Buckley's Word from The CEO in the last issue of the Feros Magazine. To think that Feros is wishing to remove geographical boundaries and pursue targeted opportunities across Australia is wonderful. Perhaps by the time I require aged care, Feros Care may be as far south as Bateman's Bay. It would be lovely to think that the organisation my father had a vision for, will provide care for me in my older senior years. Wommin Bay is a credit to the Board of Directors and the staff who all work tirelessly to maintain the high standard that has been achieved since Feros acquired this new establishment. When visiting Feros, one of the lovely things was seeing the passion of the Care Manager and all the staff. I am sure George would be very pleased to know that Feros Care has upheld his wish to provide care for the aged by their fundamental mission of 'Celebrating Ageing'. By Ruby Feros George his passion, written by his daughter Ruby, can be purchased for $50 from Feros Care or from Ruby Feros by emailing rmferos@bigpond.com All proceeds go to Feros Care.
WATER WHEELCHAIR beach adventure On Mondays and Thursday at Feros Village Byron Bay residents are given the oportunity to have a beach adventure. Residents can either take a beach walk at Clarkes Beach or hitch a ride in the council owned, Sand Cruiser Beach wheelchairs! Volunteers John & Jo with resident walkers Graham and Hugh take Glennis for a stroll.
Tom advises “This is how we do it at Byron—I love my volnteering role”
Resident Doreen, Volunteer Tom and Positive Living Assistant Beck Duffy.
Feros magazine
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FEROS FAMILY
Fu n
Team Feros ENTERS THE Gold Coast Marathon Go Team Feros! Another milestone for Team Feros in 2013 was the entry of 26 staff members competing in the Annual Gold Coast Marathon – an awesome personal achievement for many in our organisation. As part of the ten week Fitness @ Feros Forever staff wellness program, Team Feros members were sponsored to compete in the 5.7km and 10km events. For many of the staff this was their first time in a fun run event and for some the first time they have ever attempted such distances. Some staff charged across the line in record breaking times – while others achieved personal goals never thought possible before Fitness @ Feros Forever. Team Feros certainly stood out amongst the thousands of race participants in their bright orange, newly branded Team Feros sport shirts and you couldn’t hide the big proud smiles all round at the finish line, albeit beaming from rather red, sweaty faces! Of course the real finish line was a big breakfast post-race celebration for Team Feros, where race tactics were discussed for 2014. WATCH OUT GOLD COAST, TEAM FEROS ARE ON A MISSION!
DRAGON BOAT REGATTA Team Feros has a proud tradition of every year heading down to Jack Evans Harbour, Tweed Heads to do battle on the sea – all in the name of charity and of course, good Feros Team fun! Picture this – 44 staff members all giving up their Sunday, both males and females, all shapes and sizes, armed with wayward wooden paddles and ready for battle to thrash it out with other community-minded dragon boat teams doing it for the Kids In Need fundraising group. Each dragon boat has a team of 22 paddlers, a sweep - who controls the dragon boat from the rear and a drummer who sits atop a little stool at the front of the boat beating the drum to a rhythm to help the paddlers keep pace. The fun filled day consists of round robin dragon boat races, a BBQ hosted by Rotary Club, some swimming, lots of laughs and HOO HAA team chanting. Fortunately Team Feros shows much better form in aged and community care services than it does in dragon boat races! Let’s just say we are gracious in accepting defeat and what we lack in speed we make up for in enthusiasm! One of the great rewards of participating in this event is drawing inspiration from the other competitors including a breast cancer survivor’s dragon boat team, brilliant in pink, displaying such strength and speed, synchronised timing and an unstoppable spirit. Way to go ladies!
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Summer/Autumn 2014
2013
STAFF AWARDS DINNER It’s no secret that Feros Care loves a party and any excuse to get dressed up! The Annual Feros Staff Awards Dinner celebrating the achievements of our staff was held at Tweed Coolangatta Golf Club in a spectacular academy awards style event attended by 179 staff. The 2013 gala night theme was “The Love Boat”; a favourite television show from the 80’s which provided plenty of scope for ship captains, cruise leisure staff, showgirls and badly-dressed tourists. The event specifically acknowledges those staff members who truly live the Feros Care values with nominations in six categories representing each of those values. The Employee Choice Award winners for 2013 were:
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY Anthony Bacon from the LifeLink Telehealthcare team.
EVERYONE MATTERS Becky Duffey from Feros Village Byron Bay.
INNOVATIVE THINKING IT and Communications team.
LIFELONG LEARNING Robyn Kirk from Feros Village Wommin Bay.
POSITIVE ENERGY Cheyne Burns from the IT and Communications team.
SERVICE EXCELLENCE Kerry Stonestreet from Community Services team. Long-serving staff members are also recognised with a special jewellery item button to go on their name badges for 5, 10, 15 and 20 years of service. We also recognise our many volunteers with a special Volunteer of the Year award for a significant contribution in time and ideas to the organisation and our clients.
VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR John and Beth Anderson. The FITNESS @ FEROS FOREVER craze was also celebrated with four fitness awards won by Elaine Brewster, Chloe Wotherspoon, Debra Crook and the Red Hot Oompa-Loompas team.
Feros magazine
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FITNESS
Feros Care’s Staff FEROS FOREVER put their fitness to the test 2013 CHALLENGE
Have you noticed any changes in Feros Care staff members recently? Perhaps they are looking fitter, leaner, happier and most significantly healthier. Well that could be because just recently 172 Feros Care staff committed themselves to improve their health and wellness by participating in our inaugural Fitness @ Feros Forever (FFF) Challenge. Right across the entire Feros network, staff working in the community, residential villages, Community Gateway and the business centre, donned their lycra, runners and deodorant to participate in a gruelling 10 week fitness and health challenge. Participating Feros staff took the challenge very seriously – each setting themselves individual healthy living goals, changing their diet to a more “clean eating” approach and committing themselves to regular exercise. The program was engaging, exciting, educating and motivating... encouraging participants to make positive changes including healthier choices and behaviours. And the results speak for themselves, with a cumulative weight loss of 172kg and waistbands shrinking by over 680cm! But aside from the weight loss and nutritional education the improvement in personal fitness was most significant. Each participant undertook strenuous before and after fitness assessments – the result was an increase in sustainable activity levels, now forming part of their everyday behaviour. Participating staff were accountable to physical activity and adopting a healthy eating plan. Staff were encouraged to make simple changes like powerwalks from work, recording exercise activity, utilising the FFF Challenge social media site and watching videos from our own personal trainer on computers and smartphones. Not only have the bodies of our staff changed, energy levels are buzzing, morale and team relationships have also strengthened and best of all staff are reporting they feel great.
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Summer/Autumn 2014
Over 70% of participants reported having new energy and vitality and over 60% reported being much healthier than the same time last year. Staff feedback from the challenge was overwhelmingly positive:
“FFF Challenge got me exercising in new and different ways - I love going to the gym with other Feros staff.” “I enjoyed feeling like part of a team with everyone doing the same thing and talking about it which gives people motivation, and of course losing weight.” “Kick started weight loss, diet & exercise regime, my appetite has been curbed successfully.” “It has given me the motivation to make exercise part of my daily routine.” The Fitness @ Feros Challenge is another example of Feros Care managers and staff living our values, and committing to our service principles of promoting healthy ageing and empowering positive lifestyle choices for both staff and clients. Watch out for more updates as we continue to rollout Fitness @ Feros Forever Challenges in 2014.
Agencies and Government Information Contact List AGED CARE COMPLAINTS SCHEME
EMERGENCY SERVICES
1800 550 552
000
AGED CARE INFORMATION LINE
FEROS CARE
1800 500 853
1300 763 583 www.feroscare.com.au
THE AGED CARE RIGHTS SERVICE
02 9281 3600 1800 424 079 www.tars.com.au
GUIDE DOGS QLD
CARERS AUSTRALIA
02 9412 9300
02 6122 9900 www.carersaustralia.com.au CANCER COUNCIL HELPLINE
13 11 20 THE DEMENTIA HELPLINE
1800 100 500 DEPT. OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS
133 254 www.dva.gov.au DISABILITY AND AGED INFORMATION SERVICES
1800 800 340 www.daisi.asn.au DEPT. OF COMMUNITIES, CHILD SAFETY AND DISABILITY SERVICES
13 74 68 www.communities.qld.gov.au EMERGENCY RESPITE SERVICE
1800 052 222 during business hours 1800 059 059 outside standard business hours
1800 810 122 GUIDE DOGS NSW FEROS CARE LIFELINK (TELEHEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS)
1300 851 771 www.lifelinkresponse.com.au NSW FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES (OFFICE FOR AGEING) 13 12 44 (Seniors Information Service)
www.seniorsinfo.nsw.gov.au NSW HEALTH
02 9391 9000 www.health.nsw.gov.au OFFICE OF HEARING SERVICES
1800 500 726 (Client Contact Line) 1800 500 496 (TTY users) www.health.gov.au/hear QLD HEALTH
07 3234 0111 13 HEALTH (13 432 584) www.health.qld.gov.au
Helping you achieve the life you want! Allied HomeHealth will support you to: • • • • • • •
Build strength and balance Prevent falls Manage pain Improve mobility Create a safer home Care for your feet Access aids to easily move around and continue doing daily living activities and other practical tasks.
Phone: 1300 085 181 health & wellness
Fax: 1300 850 770 Email: wellness@feroscare.com.au Web: www.feroscare.com.au Feros magazine
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lifelink telehealthcare
“Mum was on her own when she fell…but she wasn’t alone.”
1300 851 771 www.lifelinkresponse.com.au