Life&Love HALL & PRIOR
ISSUE 20 | WINTER 2019
H E A LT H & A G E D C A R E G R O U P
MAGIC MOMENTS Silent Discos + the power of music
Grafton
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IN THIS ISSUE 4
From the Chief Executive Officer
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News in Brief
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Leading the way with Meaningful Ageing
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Celebrating our Nurses
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Thank you & Goodbye
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White Oak connects with Mertome Residents
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Minister visits Leighton
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Georges Estate
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Health checks & vaccinations
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Improvements to our homes
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Education Updates
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Spotlight On....Environmental Services Manager, Phil Bedford
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New aged care quality standards
ABOUT HALL & PRIOR Started in 1992 by Michael Hall and Graeme Prior, Hall & Prior is a leading aged care provider with a passion for providing quality care to older people from all walks of life. Over the past 20 years, Hall & Prior has grown from one nursing home to an organisation that cares for over 1,500 people in Western Australia and New South Wales. Our people are our greatest asset. Each one of our 25 aged care homes is led by an experienced director of nursing who works alongside a team of
registered nurses, personal carers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, dieticians and chefs to ensure that we meet the individual needs of every resident. As a private, family-owned company, Hall & Prior is committed to bringing long-term benefits to our residents and their families. Our dedicated care teams provide round-the-clock care 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure that every resident feels well cared for and at home.
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From the
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER As we find ourselves past the half way point of the year, I would like to take the opportunity to thank you all for your hard work, loyalty and dedication. This is not an easy time to be part of the aged care industry, but we know we have the right people in place to take our business forward and into the future. You have all worked incredibly hard to embrace changes in the industry as they come to pass and I’ve seen this first hand as you have engaged with the New Aged Care Quality Standards in a very positive way. We have already had successful assessments at Glenwood,
This is a time of significant change
Freshwater Bay and Tuohy Aged Care Homes and fantastic feedback from the assessors on our compassionate staff and their professional conduct. As an organisation, we are committed to offering worldclass care to every person from all walks of life, regardless of their means, and these homes are a testament to this strong culture.
Congratulations to all staff involved for a job well done.
Again, thank you for tremendous work you do.
This week we celebrate Aged Care Employee Day (Wednesday, August 7) and with that in mind I ask you all to pause for a moment in your busy days and think about how you affect other people’s lives and what an incredible difference you make.
The Royal Commission is also now working its way through its terms of reference with an interim report due in October 2019. There is no doubt that the report will highlight both good and bad examples of care. To date none of the case studies focusing on poor care have involved a Hall & Prior resident; a testament to the high quality care we provide. We continue to review the happenings in the commission, looking for ways to improve our care provision. Please keep up the great work.
Your relationships with those you care for are vitally important, and the kindness you show them on a daily basis is greatly appreciated by both the families and consumers themselves. We appreciate that keeping our homes running smoothly is no mean feat; and it’s why we now have a 2,100 strong workforce to operate our 25 homes, and two home care services across WA and NSW efficiently. People are our business and caring for older Australians with both dignity and respect is a rewarding, but often challenging job that often requires complete dedication. At Hall & Prior, we live by the mantra that we are ‘Compassionate People Dedicated to Care’. Aged Care Employee Day 2019 is an opportunity for us all to sit back and reflect on that statement, and think of how each and every one of us live this mantra every day.
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You’ll find an update on the Royal Commission on page xx. In this issue you can also read about our partnership with North Metropolitan TAFE, project updates on Karingal Green and Georges Estate and an insight into Dr Jenny Prentice, Australia’s leading wound management specialist who has recently joined our team. Finally I would like to wish all of our staff participating in the City to Surf in Sydney and Perth on August 11 and 25 the very best of luck.
GRAEME PRIOR Chief Executive Officer
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CEO Graeme Prior with Regional Care Leaders Janelle McFarlane and Daymon Joseph
NEWS IN BRIEF Royal Commission highlights Cultural Care
Autumn Executive Management Team Twice a year Hall & Prior’s NSW and WA management teams come together to share ideas and discuss what’s happening in both the aged care industry and the business.
Wendy (right) and her sister Pat
Hall & Prior’s Aboriginal Health Coordinator Wendy Ashwin was called to The Royal Commission recently to speak on best practice models in regards to the care of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islanders. Wendy spoke at a Royal Commission Round Table meeting on May 28 in Adelaide regarding the social and economic factors that influence Aboriginal people, barriers affecting them from accessing aged care services and how the industry can better provide more culturally appropriate care. She also spoke to more assistance being needed to help Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islanders navigate the aged care system and highlighted funding requirements needed along with the importance of working hand-in-hand with Aboriginal community organisations.
Important themes for our April EMT focussed on transitioning to the new quality standards, the Royal Commission, changes of government, Hall & Prior development projects, staff education and shifting towards a more consumer centric care model. CEO Graeme Prior said the EMTs are an important way for staff to share information and look at the bigger picture.
“The work we do in WA is very highly regarded. We deliver fabulous care to many vulnerable people and we really do our best work in the homes,” Mr Prior said. “We’re not the biggest aged care provider in Australia, but we are one of the leaders. The future looks bright in aged care and it’s our job to pursue excellence and innovation.”
Fresh faces join H&P We’ve had a plethora of new people join our company in 2019; so look out for our Fresh Faces email, hitting your inbox on June 28.
Goodbye to Brian Cregg It’s with a heavy heart that we say farewell to our Manager Corporate Development Brian Cregg, who after three years with the company, is moving back to Ireland. Brian has been integral in many of our developments up to this point; securing finance and helping the corporate team fine tune new projects. Brian’s expertise has allowed us to take much needed next steps in our plans for the future of aged care in WA and NSW and for that we thank him. He will be sorely missed, but we wish him all the very best in his future endeavours.
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DON Appointments - NSW
New South Wales welcomed two new With a wealth of experience between them, Directors of Nursing to its Senior both DONs are looking forward to their new roles and embracing challenges in the industry. Management Team in May.
Eva brings more than 25 years of experience in the health care industry to her new role. With frontline, senior, executive management and board level position experience Eva is also a Captain Specialist Nursing Officer in the Australian Defence Force and a fellow member of the Australasian College of Health Services Management. Eva’s character will contribute greatly to her success within her new role at Fairfield as she embraces it with enthusiasm, loyalty and commitment to both consumers and staff.
Eva Ballai - Fairfield
Having worked most recently at Mount Wilga Rehabilitation Hospital, Fraser joins us with strong experience of working with the elderly post falls and post Orthopaedic and Neurological surgery. She also spent nine years at the Sydney Adventist Hospital (SAN) in Wahroonga gaining valuable experience on the medical and surgical wards while completing her RN studies with University of Western Sydney and James Cook University. Fraser said she was inspired to work with the elderly through her love and respect of her Grandparents and enjoyment of getting to know the stories of those within her care. “My most cherished moments in nursing come from getting to know the stories of the people I care for and making genuine connections. Nursing is my job but connecting with people is what I love to do,” she said.
Fraser Wunsch - Sirius Cove
A very warm Hall & Prior welcome to Eva and Fraser Life&Love Who we are Content inspired by the wonderful residents and staff at Hall & Prior. Collated, written and edited by Beverly Ligman, Brianna Johnson and Jacki Downs. Designed by Sean Baker. If you have any story ideas please contact lifeandlove@hallprior.com.au or (08) 9321 1388.
FEATURE
PERTH STAFF GET SET FOR CITY TO SURF
For the third consecutive year, Hall and Prior will be entering a team in the Perth City to Surf on Sunday, August 25. Entries are still open for Hall and Prior and White Oak employees to participate in either the four, 12, 21 or 42km events.
“I know this is a highlight on the health and wellbeing calendar for many staff and I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone do their best again this year,” Ben said.
The City to Surf is a premier event in the Hall and Prior wellness program and WA event calendar.
“We also have an exciting addition to this year’s event with a Hall & Prior finish line marquee which aims to create a fantastic atmosphere for all participants to celebrate their achievement in over a bite to eat.
Organiser of the WA portion of the event and Hall & Prior’s Injury Management Coordinator Ben Carrick said the City to Surf was always a really positive event for both team bonding and fitness.
“Everyone who takes part will also be given a Hall & Prior team shirt to wear on the day and I hope to see as many photos after the event as possible, so please don’t forget to take selfies and team
shots on your phone when you’re out there!” If anyone would like any further information about participating in the WA City to Surf, it’s not too late- please contact Ben on bcarrick@hallprior.com.au The last day to enter the WA race is Thursday, August 8. And look out for photos from the WA and NSW events in the next issue of Life & Love…
NSW FORMS CITY2SURF FUNDRAISING PARTNERSHIP WITH CHILDREN’S CANCER INSTITUTE
Hall & Prior NSW staff never stop caring…and not just for “We are really excited to have Hall & Prior supporting Children’s the elderly. The Sydney City2Surf takes place on 11 August and staff at Clover Lea and Shangri-La have taken some extra steps to raise much needed funds for children’s cancer alongside official charity partner, the Children’s Cancer Institute. The Children’s Cancer Institute is the only independent medical research institute in Australia dedicated to putting an end to childhood cancer. The team work from state-of-the-art labs at the Lowy Cancer Research Centre in NSW. Morning teas were held at both homes recently to showcase the Institute’s important work and raise a fantastic amount of funds for the cause to help H&P’s staff reach their charity fundraising goal.
Cancer Institute through City2Surf and I personally can’t wait to see you at the finish line! Its been a pleasure to get to know staff and residents and see firsthand the valuable work your organisation does,” Children’s Cancer Institute Community Engagement Coordinator Audrey Morisseau said.
The Sydney City2Surf is run in winter every year and is the key Hall & Prior NSW, health and wellbeing event for staff. Laura Marsh, Exercise & Mobility Coordinator said it was a fantastically memorable day for staff who attended. For more information on the Children’s Cancer Institute please visit www.ccia.org.au.
Caroline Chisholm resident Tony Atkins with Director of Nursing Anne Curnow.
FEATURE
SILENT DISCO CREATES MUSICAL MAGIC The joy that music brings to life is often underestimated; but the look on our resident’s faces said it all recently when a ‘Silent Disco’ took place at Hamersley Aged Care Home. By Beverly Ligman There’s nothing that evokes memories quite like music does. Songs from the past can stir powerful emotions and transport us back in time; perhaps to a special occasion like a wedding day, a first date or a baby being born. It can also remind us of sad times; taking us back to a particular moment and allowing us to embrace that emotion all over again. The relationship between music and memory is powerful, so with that in mind Hall & Prior’s Occupational Therapy team decided to trial some silent discos at our homes to see how residents’ responded to them. And the reaction was overwhelmingly positive. The discos are part of the company’s ‘Sounds of Life’ music project; which aims to bring music into the homes in new and inventive ways, encouraging residents to interact and engage with it.
“Instead of just turning a radio on, the silent disco allows each resident to have an individual experience, by choosing the music that they like,” she said. “Music often helps bring reserved residents out of their shell and encourages them to get up and move their bodies. “At Concorde Aged Care Home in South Perth and at Hamersley in Subiaco, we’ve had a great response to this, with many residents up dancing, laughing and singing; it’s something we will definitely do more of. “There’s also many positive cognitive and physical effects that come from listening to music; and it’s a great memory prompt for consumers with dementia. “Music has also been proven to boost the brain’s production of the hormone dopamine, which in turn can help relieve feelings of anxiety and depression. “But really the joy on their faces says it all!”
And it seems that you’re never too old to engage with new technology if the residents at Hamersley are anything to go by. Senior Occupational Therapist Madelyne Glover said the idea behind using the headphones and a silent disco as opposed to a radio or stereo was so residents could have a more personalised musical experience.
During the silent disco residents could choose from three ‘disco’ channels playing Country & Western, Elvis or AC/DC. Silent discos were first established almost 15 years ago at music festivals across Europe to allow those attending to listen to different DJs and acts from one central stage.
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The disco was hosted by Ryan White from Perth’s Audiovault Industries who said hosting silent discos at aged care homes is one of his favourite parts of the job. “I love watching everyone’s faces lights up when they recognise a song they love,” Ryan said. “The singing and dancing that follow are always great. But honestly, one of the best things is seeing some of the amazing transformations that happen to residents when they’re wearing the headsets. “To see these incredibly profound, positive shifts in mood and energy bought on simply through listening to music is really something. The amount of happiness and laughter it brings to so many of them is truly remarkable and to know that I can help be a part of that is extremely rewarding.” Director of Nursing at Hamersley Aged Care Home Terri Woolhouse agrees saying the benefits of playing music was palpable among residents. “Residents often respond well to music as it can be a part of reminiscence; bringing them back to a certain time in their lives - reminding them generally of good times however, it can also remind them of sad times,” Terri said.
“To see them enjoy themselves really warms the heart; it is so lovely to see them have a great time.” For more information on the Sounds of Life music project please contact mglover@hallprior.com.au
LINEN DONATION PURRFECT FOR CAT RESCUE By Brianna Johnson The felines at Perth rescue Cat Haven will stay snuggly and warm this winter thanks to a donation from Hall & Prior’s linen and catering division Fresh Fields Hospitality Services. Fresh Fields Laundry Manager Steve Rowe and General Manager Eric Frahamer were on hand on June 19 to deliver a truckload of freshly washed linen to the shelter.
The towels, blankets and sheets were not able to be used in our aged care homes anymore, but they are perfect for the cats while they wait to be adopted. “In an average year, we wash more than 368,000 towels, more than 440,000 sheets and more than 34,000 blankets,” Eric said. “We also wash clothing and other items for Hall & Prior’s 14 homes in the Perth metropolitan area, “Once they become worn they are replaced, so we’re happy to be able to donate them to Cat Haven so they can be used again.” Steve, an avid animal lover, also said he was keen to donate some additional blankets to the nearby Shenton Park Dog Rescue. Eric is pictured here with Mighty, a sweet ginger kitten who has battled several health issues including blocked tear ducts which cause discharge from his eyes. Cat Haven’s on-site vet clinic and loving staff have been able to give him the care he needs. Cat Haven takes in more than 8,500 cats and kittens each year and provides medical treatment, love and care until they can find a forever home. They never turn cats away, no matter how feral, old or sick they are.
Fresh Fields General Manager Eric Frahamer at Cat Haven with Mighty, who is already enjoying the donated linen.
We are proud to assist this great local charity.
FOND FAREWELL TO FAIRFIELD ICON SUE REYNOLDS With more than 30 years of dedicated service under her belt, Fairfield’s favourite Registered Nurse Sue Reynolds is heading off to live her retirement dreams. By Jacki Downs.
Spending 30 years in one job is no mean feat these days, but Sue Reynold’s dedication and commitment to Fairfield Aged Care Home has been second to none. The relationships she has formed with both her colleagues and consumers at the home is testament to Sue’s nature and all she has achieved throughout her time there. In late July Fairfield staff put together a wonderful celebration for Sue to show her just how much she will be missed. During the farewell lunch, individual staff took the floor to share stories about their time with ‘Sister Sue’ – and many touching stories of kindness and support were shared. Staff from other Hall & Prior homes also attended to say goodbye including Sirius Cove’s Residential Aged Care Home Director of Nursing Fraser Wunsch. When Fraser started at Sirius Cove recently Sue recognised her last name and reached out to see if she was related to former Fairfield resident, Rose Wunsch, who was under Sue’s care some 30 years ago. Fraser was delighted to confirm that Rose was indeed her Great Grandmother! Sue had also met Fraser’s Father twice when Fairfield Residential Aged Care Home was flooded in 1986 and 1988. Patrick Wunsch was the attending Police Officer who helped evacuate the home on both occasions.
“Sue’s personality has been woven into the fabric of our home’s community and she will certainly be missed by all here at Fairfield. Her kind and giving nature has always made her a favourite with residents. I know so many of them are going to miss Sue caring for them every day,” Fairfield Director of Nursing Eva Ballai said. “If Sue’s nursing career could be summed up in one word - that word would be devotion.” Sue dedicated much of her working life to Fairfield; which the Daily Telegraph recently named ‘Sydney’s Most Disadvantaged Suburb’. “There’s no-where else I would have rather been,” Sue said. “I have always had a strong connection to the local community here and dedicated my life to nursing and caring for all the colourful characters that I have had the privilege of meeting at Fairfield,” Sue said. Congratulations and farewell Sue; you truly are one in a million and from all of us at Hall & Prior, we wish you a wonderful retirement.
“Sue’s personality has been woven into the fabric of our home’s community and she will certainly be missed by all here at Fairfield.
INTERNATIONAL WOUND CARE EXPERT JOINS HALL & PRIOR We are proud to announce a recent addition to our team of clinical specialists, Dr Jenny Prentice. With an impressive career history and a passion for educating others, Jenny has joined us to consolidate the delivery of integrated wound
management services across our organisation. She will work with our clinical teams in WA and NSW to strengthen our organisational capacity in wound management. This will involve consulting with staff to assess training needs, and revising our education programs to increase skills and improve processes. “If we upskill staff, we will be better able to manage and prevent pressure sores and wounds, which will increase the quality of life for those in our care,” Dr Prentice said. “It is my goal to ensure our staff are well-resourced and have access to a wound assessment resource kit. “I will also review the current skin care regimes at our homes, and ensure the procedures and products are appropriate and using the most up-to-date evidence-based recommendations.” As we welcome Jenny to our organisation, we are proud to share her story and details of her previous work and successes.
Early career As an internationally renowned expert in wound care, it comes as a surprise that Dr Jenny
Prentice grew up with no desire to be a nurse. Born in Melbourne but raised in New Zealand, Jenny originally wanted to become a teacher. “I didn’t like the concept of nursing at all, but to be a teacher I would have had to move far away,” she said. “After I met my husband, I didn’t want to move, so the only thing left to do was nursing.” In the late 1970s she was working at Wairau Hospital in Blenheim, New Zealand when she was thrown into the area of wound care. “The current Stomal Therapy Nurse was leaving to have a baby, and one day I was called into the Matron’s office and told I was taking on her role,” she said. “Her role was quite hushed up, most people weren’t sure what she did. That was the industry culture at the time – things to do with bodily fluids just weren’t talked about openly. “There was a very strong hierarchy within the medical space, where a doctor’s word was absolute and there was very little room for discussion or interaction in terms of a multidisciplinary approach.” Specialised training was required for her new role, which meant heading to Sydney for six to eight weeks, but with a small baby to care for, she was able to spend time in a Wellington hospital instead. “I spent two weeks working with the Stomal Therapy Nurse there, and that’s when I learnt about a multidisciplinary approach to care,” she said. “It was like learning another language, but I was so impressed by it that I knew I wanted to bring it back home to Wairau Hospital. “While I was in Wellington I was also able to complete a palliative care course at a local hospice. I realised how important it is to involve patients in their care.” Industry advancements There have been a lot of changes since Jenny started her career, the biggest of which is with the available technologies to help clinicians provide the best care. “Advancements in surgical techniques and devices have made surgical procedures and aftercare safer
by lowering the risk of complications and infection,” Dr Prentice said. “For example, there are now dressing products that improve wound healing, as well as diagnostic tests to help nurses figure out when and where to use specific tools like compression bandages. “The other major change is the advance of nursing and the introduction of Nurse Practitioners. The care we can provide to people now is much better.” “Being able to work together with other nurses, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and other clinical staff is so important, because everyone sees the patient from a different perspective and at different points in time.” Using technology to care Technology also allows Jenny to assess wounds remotely, from photos sent by medical professionals from across Australia. She regularly works with hospitals and GPs across the country who don’t have access to a stomal nurse. “As well as visually assessing the photo, there are also computer programs that have been developed to help medical professionals identify the type of wound and how well it appears to be healing,” she said. “By combining the image of the wound with information about the person, any comorbid conditions and whether there is an infection present, I can come to a conclusion about what to recommend.” Educating students and the community With a passion for mentoring and public health initiatives, Jenny has been able to work on many fascinating projects through the years. On any given day she could be hopping on a plane across Australia or overseas to deliver education programs or assist with facility audits. “Mentoring is of my main passions, because the areas I work in aren’t covered well in an undergraduate medical degree,” she said. “It takes time, experience and exposure to wounds for people to learn these skills, and I was fortunate in my early career to have access to people who were generous with their time in teaching me their craft. “I believe it’s important that I carry this on and keep
teaching people so they can be the best possible clinician.”
identified several challenges for the industry and providers such as Hall & Prior.
Public health endeavours One projects she is most proud of during her time as Director of WoundsWest was helping to increase awareness and reduce stigma about the skin infection scabies in Aboriginal communities. Most commonly seen in children, scabies is a contagious but treatable condition caused by tiny mites which are endemic to Australia’s northwest.
“People are living longer these days, often with multiple comorbidities, and they are coming into aged care with more chronic wounds,” she said.
Scabies had been linked to secondary infections in children, negative social stigma from scars and absences from school due to its contagious nature.
“It is also uncommon in Australia for an aged care organisation to have regular access to a wound specialist, so this is another reason why I was attracted to the industry and my role with Hall & Prior.”
Working with the WA Education Department and a University of Western Australia public health student, Jenny headed to Cable Beach Primary School in Broome, where they spoke to students, teachers and other community members. In order to better educate children about how to identify scabies, how to treat it and to reduce fears around the condition, the project resulted in the creation of a story book called Billy and the Magic Boab Tree. Using artwork created by students at the school, it tells the tale of a young boy who loves football and whose coach sees he has scabies. “The book shows that scabies is treatable and that you can be back playing football before you know it,” Jenny said. “It has been published in Australia, New Zealand and other parts of the world.” The future of aged care As the nation’s attention turns towards the rapidly growing numbers of older Australians who will need care in the future, Jenny has
“We need to have a workforce that is educated and proficient in managing these wounds, as well as the wide diversity of care requirements that are already present.
Other endeavours In addition to Jenny’s new role with Hall & Prior, she is also the Credentialing Coordinator for Wound Innovations, providing an internationally recognised certification for clinicians who have specialised in wound management. She is also the Journal Editor for the Wound Council of Enterostomal Therapy Journal, where she identifies and publishes peer-reviewed articles which contain relevant insights for the industry. In her spare time, Jenny enjoys spending time with her family, taking care of the more than 120 rose bushes she has grown, playing tennis and watching Formula 1 car and boat racing.
Welcome to the Hall & Prior family, Jenny.
PROJECT UPDATE
GEORGES ESTATE (PENSHURST, NSW)
Work continues at Georges Estate in Penshurst where Hall & Prior is building its first ever purpose built aged care home in NSW.
The 111 bed facility will be built over three levels and be dedicated to caring for those with all levels of aged care needs. Georges including an initial luxurious amenity.
Estate will also offer specialist services a secure dementia care wing offering 18 beds combined with a multitude of leisure and health related services and
The facility is a world-class, care-focused addition to the local Penshurst community and aims to provide a space for both healing and wellbeing.
On site bulk excavation works are continuing and are expected to be completed in the next month; the driveway has been installed, basement retaining wall construction has commenced and sewer and stormwater deviation works are now substantially completed. Georges Estate is due for completion in late 2020. We look forward to sharing another update with you in our next edition‌
To find our more visit www.georgesestate.com.au
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RSLWA HELP OUR HEROES BALL
White Oak Home Care Services and Hall & Prior staff came together on June 15 to attend the RSLWA ‘Help our Heroes’ Charity Ball. The ball, held at Crown Perth was a fundraiser for veterans and highlighted the plight that they face when integrating back into society after being part of the armed forces. Stories were told across the evening about the very real dangers that soldiers face when stationed in combat zones and how RSLWA is there to help whenever they need support and advice. RSLWA CEO John McCourt explained how the new ANZAC House Veteran Central facility on St George’s Terrace (which
is currently under construction and due for completion in 2020) will help veterans by providing a ‘one stop shop’ for everything they need. “Veteran Central will be an innovative, and very practical, approach to providing services to Veterans and their families in a truly collaborative and holistic manner,” Mr McCourt said. “This is the most forward-thinking initiative in many decades in providing better support to Veterans and their families by Ex-Service Organisations and other service providers by
collaborating in order to do things better together.” Music from The Australian Army Band accompanied the evening along with a delicious three course meal. White Oak and Hall & Prior were silver sponsors of the evening. $xxx was raised on the evening for various RSLWA projects.
EDUCATION
NEW ROUND OF STUDENTS COMPLETE AGED CARE DUAL QUALIFICATION A new partnership with North Metropolitan TAFE is allowing H&P to connect with to the next generation of aged care workers. By Brianna Johnson
Throughout Hall & Prior, we’re passionate about helping people learn, improve their skills and provide better care. Our new partnership with North Metropolitan TAFE allowing us to do just that by working with the next generation of aged care workers through the development of a new qualification. Encompassing Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) and Certificate III in Health Service Assistance (Acute Care), students focus on Hall & Prior’s policies and procedures to meet the complex needs of people in highly specialised residential aged care. Prior to their in-home placement, students spend over a month in the classroom to ensure they understand manual handling and occupational health and safety procedures. They are then guided through five weeks of placement at a facility with a program that has been specially developed to equip staff with essential knowledge and interpersonal skills. They work with our regular staff in the home completing basic tasks such as making beds and tidying residents’ rooms to build a sense of achievement. This also gives them time to learn how the home runs on a daily basis and get to know both staff and consumers. At Rockingham Aged Care Home, sisters Bianca
(22) and Hayley (20) Dela Pena have worked hard to excel during their placement. Both said they were drawn to the aged care industry because of the growing employment market and the opportunity to specialise further in their career and enter nursing. Throughout all Hall & Prior homes, we care for people with high-level care needs such as advanced dementia, which can initially be confronting for new staff and trainees. “It was very eye-opening at first because I haven’t worked in an aged care home before, but once I got used to it I found it really interesting to meet the residents and hear their stories,” Bianca said. “I couldn’t have gotten through the course without the guidance I received I from the staff here, they are all really approachable. “It also made me feel good to be an extra set of hands for the staff.” Both Bianca and Hayley said their favourite part of their time at Rockingham was getting to know the residents. “Interacting with the residents gave me so much happiness,” Hayley said. “It was lovely to do little things like bring them a drink or stop for a chat.”
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Sisters Bianca and Hayley Dela Pena recently completed a training placement at Rockingham Aged Care Home.
When asked for advice for future students doing the course, both said to brace yourself and be prepared to learn. “I really believe in always checking if you don’t understand something, and ask for more work if you don’t have anything to do, it’s not okay to just stand there and do nothing,” Hayley said. Bianca also recommended being well-versed in the Australian Aged Care Quality Standards and frequently referring to each person’s care plan.
Staff Learning & Development Coordinator Felicia Lopez said she was proud of the new group of graduates and the program’s success so far. “Working with NM TAFE has allowed us to develop a program that gives students the real-world skills they will need in the workforce,” she said. “For future students we are trying to strengthen this dual qualification with training about mental health, responsive behaviours and diversity.” Congratulations to our newest round of graduates for this program.
Education
EDUCATION CALENDAR There’s still time to learn this year with plenty of education offerings in WA for the second part of 2019. Don’t miss your chance!
AUG
DON, CNN & RN Core Training Part II
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Refresher Core Training
AUG
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Central Training Room, Fresh Fields - 8am to 4pm
TENA Room Mayfair Street - 8am to 4pm
This is a full day study session whose target audience is RCMs, DONs, DDONs, CNMs and RNs. Topics will cover: the welcome and reflection on ‘Whole of Person Health’, care and wellbeing, quality, safety and compliance, a risk management framework workshop, dementia, depression, delirium, a clinical update, wound and skin care, palliative and EOL care and medication and documentation.
This is a full day session delivered throughout 2019. The target audience is Personal Carers, PCAPs, OTs, PTs, OTAs and Mayfair St staff. Topics will cover: H&P values + lifeworks, diversity and inclusion: ATSI + LGBTI + Meaningful Ageing, Person Centred Care: the consumer experience, quality, safety & compliance, infection control, OSH + manual tasks + fire and evac + hazardous substances, Dementia: the view from here, Dementia Training Australia, ACFI and clinical documentation, nutrition and hydration.
AUG
ICT Computer Skills
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Dementia Essentials
SEPT
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Resource Hub IT Training Room - 8am to 4pm
Central Training Room, Fresh Fields - 8am to 12 noon.
This is a half-day session delivered on six days throughout 2019. The target audience is all new Hall & Prior employees who access IT resources. Topics will cover: Microsoft Office – Excel, Word, Outlook, keyboard shortcuts and basic troubleshooting. Intermediate and advanced training sessions include data analysis and reporting tools.
The Dementia Essentials workshop runs on three separate days over three weeks on September 10, 17, 24 September. This workshop aims to give all participants an understanding of using a person centred approach and effective communication, the nature of dementia and its impacts, changed behavior and effective responses, activities to promote wellbeing; plus workplace issues, community support and services available.
HP Share
SEPT
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IT HUB, 4 Saville Place Carlisle - 8am to 4pm. Facilitated by the ICT Team this is a half-day session that will be delivered three times throughout 2019. The target audience is all staff. This is a regular training session that is held to help upskill staff with advanced features and functionalities available in Sharepoint.
Manual Handling Leader Training
SEPT
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Location TBC: Contact Jen Davidson, OSH Coordinator t - 8am to 4pm Facilitated by Clinical Documentation Coordinators this is a full day session aimed at current Manual Handling Leaders. Topics will cover: components of the H&P MH program, duty of care of employer, employees, suppliers and risk assessment processes used to identify and manage manual task risks, leading work colleagues in better practice, facilitating and presenting training sessions for existing staff using H&P training resources, accessing manual handling competencies using the H&P checklist and maintenance training records for all activities.
For more information on any of these courses please speak directly to your relevant DON.
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STAFF TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT Education remains vital to the future of our business and we continue to invest heavily in the ongoing growth of our staff. In 2019, between January and June we delivered 89 education sessions. Up to 20 people on average attended each session; which equals 13,528 paid hours of education so far. Another 60 sessions are scheduled for remainder of year. Which will be another 9,120 hours of training for our staff. These numbers do not include training sessions delivered in the homes. (SB can we do amazing pie/graph/something with these figures above pls?) In late 2018 we entered into a partnership with Dementia Training Australia to deliver dementia specific education to employees across the organisation; and we have continued access to dementia learning modules for the remainder of 2019.
NM TAFE partnership This year we have continued to work closely with North Metropolitan TAFE, our education partner. Our first group of students have successfully completed the new Hall & Prior dual-qualification, and thanks to the expert guidance of staff in the Homes, will now go on to careers in aged care (please see page 18). NM TAFE have just taken enrolments for the second group of students, with around 20 students applying to study. These students will be ready to enter our homes on placement, two days a week in the next few months. “We are proud to be supporting students wanting to pursue a career in aged care, and the dualqualification ensures that the right mix of skills, knowledge and attitudes are embedded at the start of their careers,” Felicia added. “Everyone who works in an H&P home is responsible for guiding students in person centred care, sharing their expertise and creating a positive environment for students to learn in.”
The need for ongoing Dementia education was highlighted recently by Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission review asked for evidence that employees receiving education on dementia. Our core training and other dementia learning opportunities mean that we can now proudly say yes and we are continuing to improve to become industry leaders.
Policy Implementation In support of the new Aged Care Quality Standards, Hall & Prior WA and NSW have co-produced new learning resources for Policy Implementation.
Staff Learning & Development Coordinator Felicia Lopez said continued training leads to positive outcomes for both our consumers and staff.
The education team is now busy designing education resources and scheduling training for White Oak community based staff Training Toolboxes have also been updated in line with the new Aged Care Quality Standards and updated H&P Policies.
“Training is so important, the aged care industry is changing every day and we need to be ahead of the curve when it comes to making sure our staff have all of the training and resources they need to provide the best care and services they can,” she said.
A rollout in the homes commenced in both states during the first week of July, with sessions due to finish in WA on August 2.
For ease of access, these are now available through the HP LEARN button on infolink.
For more information email L&D@hallprior.com.au Education
SPOTLIGHT ON…
EXERCISE & MOBILTY COORDINATOR, LAURA MARSH By Jacki Downs
If there’s one thing that Exercise and Mobility Coordinator, Laura Marsh knows, it’s that being active throughout your life is the best way to maintain health, well-being and quality of life.
If there’s one thing that Exercise and Mobility Coordinator, Laura Marsh knows, it’s that being active throughout your life is the best way to maintain health, well-being and quality of life. Through her role at Hall & Prior Laura helps our elderly and frail residents gain some independence and a sense of achievement to our elderly, which she says is by far the most rewarding part of her day-to-day job. In NSW Laura works closely with Hall & Prior Physiotherapist Jordan Lee to treat residential aged care residents who often have restricted movement or little or no independent mobility. Working across 10 NSW homes; helping our resident’s regain movement is her main focus when assessing residents for treatment. In 2016, Laura helped Hall & Prior NSW win a Better Practice Award from the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, for her ‘Resisting Ageing with Resistance Training’ program. This
program was based around Laura’s established practice of utilising resistance training in the elderly to help them build strength to complete simple daily tasks, such as holding a cup of tea or moving from a sitting to standing position.
competitive netball and touch football as igniting her passion for sport and health. These early sporting accomplishments playing a big role in her decision to pursue a career that involved both the human body and movement.
“Resistance exercise is a type of muscle strength training and is generally recommended as the preferred approach to attenuate losses of muscle strength, mass, and functional capacity in older adults,” Laura said.
Hailing from Sydney’s Eastern suburbs, Laura attended St Clare’s Catholic College in Waverly before studying at Sydney University, which lead to her own practice. She joined the Hall & Prior team as a volunteer in 2014, before taking on a newly created position as Exercise & Mobility Coordinator.
“The main objective of my program is to have pain free movement as a priority before increasing the range of both motion and strength.” Laura, who recently got married, changing her surname name from Majewski to Marsh, has always been a very active person. Having competed in amateur boxing for the past four years, she is currently undefeated in the ring. Previous to this, Laura highlights her 15 years of
“Regular exercise should be a part of each day for everyone,” Laura said. “It can help to prevent and manage chronic conditions, maintain brain function and memory, improve balance as well as help you stay socially connected. “As an Exercise Scientist, it’s my aim to inspire everyone to be healthier and more active. I am passionate about
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spreading health and wellbeing, which is why I have committed to further study doing my Masters in Clinical Exercise Physiology at Charles Sturt University. “I feel so lucky that I get to work with the most amazing people in our staff and consumer mix and hopefully motivate change in a positive health and fitness way.
“There are so many achievements that I am proud of during my time at Hall & Prior; but it really is the simple things, like the smile on a resident’s face when they can hold their own utensils or stand independently, that makes feel like I am making a positive difference to somebody’s day.”
IN OUR HOMES…NSW
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DOROTHY AULD It’s not every day that you become a centenarian. Congratulations to Dorothy Auld, resident at Aubrey Downer Independent Living Units who turned a very spritely 100 on Wednesday, July 10. Dorothy has a special connection to Aubrey Downer; before she moved with her husband from Sydney up to the Central Coast in 1973, they purchased $10 worth of bricks to help ‘build up the central coast’ through a local charity.
Scott Morrison, as well as a message from current Governor General David Hurley. But Dorothy’s ‘best’ letter came from her favourite politician of all time, John Howard.
Those bricks were for the Aubrey Downer Independent Living Units where she now resides.
She said her secret to living to 100 was “in the genes” but also stays healthy and active by attending the homes Chair Yoga sessions and eating three meals a day. She said she also enjoys a bit of guilty pleasure TV watching The Bold and the Beautiful daily.
To help celebrate her amazing milestone, Dorothy had an extended family birthday party on July 6 with 60 guests who flew in from Malaysia and various locations throughout Australia.
Dorothy is excited to have a special plaque installed at the home on the brick of her choice and says she often looks at the bricks and wonders how many she and her husband Pat contributed.
“It’s easy to make a large party when you’re the eldest of 13 children!” Dorothy said.
Pick any brick and it’s yours Dorothy!
On her actual birthday (July 10) Dorothy spent time with her daughter and said she had a lovely day. “My greatest moments in life have been spent with my three lovely children and my late husband, Pat; so anytime with my favourite people, is time well spent,” she added. To celebrate her special day Dorothy also received mail from some high profile people including Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Prime Minister
GRAFTON RUNNERS UP IN ELDER OLYMPICS Grafton Aged Care Home recently took competition to the next level by hosting the ‘Elder Olympics’.
They arranged for the residents of Dougherty Village Care Home to visit, put their stamina to the test and see which home would win the Olympic Torch. The teams dressed in their team colours (Dougherty in green and Grafton in purple) and started off the morning in the dining room where residents from both homes got acquainted over morning tea.
There was a warm up, then the National Anthem was played to make sure that everyone was feeling patriotic before the real competition began.
“It was wonderful to see old friends from the community catch up with people they have known for many years,” Director of Nursing Julie Spicer said.
Residents competed against each other in sports such as shot put, bowls and the ring toss and competiveness started to show as both teams became very committed to winning!
“Grafton is such a wonderful town like that, there’s so many lovely connections; somebody went to school with someone else’s brother and knows the family who ran the local store and so on.”
A big thank you to Amy Schultz, Lifestyle & Wellbeing Officer at Grafton Aged Care home who was the organiser of the day.
After the morning tea staff and residents ventured out to the sports field (aka the large lounge area) to start the Elder Olympics fun.
In the end Dougherty Village was victorious but Grafton is looking forward to a rematch in the near future so they can claim back the coveted trophy!
A VERY VAUCLUSE CHRISTMAS IN JULY Santa’s come early to visit the lucky residents of Vaucluse! Celebrating Christmas in the winter months feels more ‘European’ to our residents - many of who are emigrants or descended from European families. To warm up the cold month of July staff at Vaucluse held a Christmas party that inspired residents to laugh, dance and enjoy the wonderful spirit of Christmas. Entertainer Lisa sang some wonderful Christmas carols, which warmed resident’s hearts and encouraged those who could to get up and dance. Long-time Vaucluse resident, Penelope was our favourite dancer of the day and everyone enjoyed decorating the Christmas tree.
NAIDOC WEEK 2019
Hall & Prior staff celebrated NAIDOC Week all over Australia recently with activations at homes and trips to NAIDOC festivals and family days.
During the week Aboriginal Health Coordinator Wendy Ashwin took some consumers to a NAIDOC Family Day in Ashfield. The day was all about celebrating language and culture through dance, art and music. There was also dot painting workshops at some of the homes (as seen here at Mosman Park Aged Care Home). Dot painting is a style of art that is strongly connected with both Aboriginal
culture and storytelling. The celebration of NAIDOC Week is important to consumers as it gives validation to Aboriginal people and our culture,” Aboriginal Health Coordinator Wendy Ashwin said. “It is a positive step to celebrate important dates for Aboriginals and inform non-Aboriginal people about the history of Indigenous culture.”
Many of the homes also enjoyed delicious kangaroo stew thanks to our catering division Fresh Fields and baked their own damper to enjoy. There was also a NAIDOC bus trip. The theme of this year’s NAIDOC Week was: Voice, Treaty, Truth. It aims to celebrate the languages, knowledge and culture of Indigenous Australians.
ROYAL COMMISSION UPDATE JUNE/JULY 2019 The next stage of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety began yesterday with a public hearing taking place in Sydney. This hearing will focus on the quality and safety of residential aged care, with a focus on care for people living with dementia. It aims to provide insights into whether the residential aged care system is coping with the challenges of dementia and, if not, why not? There will also be a focus on the key elements of quality dementia care. The hearing will begin with direct accounts of the experiences of people living in the residential aged care system, and accounts from people living with dementia and their carers. These personal accounts are expected to provide powerful and compelling insights into the experience of residential aged care, particularly for those living with dementia. This month the Commission will look into allegations of poor care and mistreatment by certain providers, and hear evidence from those providers. These case studies are expected to shed light on particular issues relevant to the quality and safety of care provided to residents living with dementia.
Evidence will also be given by aged care workers, nurses, clinical experts, innovative provider organisations, policy advocates and representatives from the Department of Health and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission. This stage of the commission will also delve further into the use of physical restraints and overuse of psychotropic drugs (in particular antipsychotics and benzodiazepines) in residential aged care to manage the behaviour of people living with dementia. Clinical evidence about these practices will be a focus of the hearing. The May hearings will involve consideration of the exposure of residents with dementia to substandard clinical and personal care. A host of experts are also expected to give evidence at the hearing this month. Hall & Prior welcomes the Royal Commission, believing it will lead to long-term, sustainable improvements for the aged care sector. If you would like any information regarding the Royal Commission or hall & Prior’s submission, please email royalcommissionenquiries@hallprior.com.au
Construction continues‌ Hall & Prior’s exciting Karingal Green project continues to take shape in the Perth foothills. Upon its completion at the end of 2019 the worldclass aged care precinct will provide a multitude of residential options, specialist services and in-home and community aged care services. The 1.6 hectare planned community will have 160 aged care beds catering for high and low care needs residents and offer world-class health and wellness
www.karingalgreen.com.au
facilities including a wellness centre, primary and allied health care clinic, cinema, private dining, cafe, gymnasium and a heated swimming pool. Contractor Broad Constructions recently commenced installing the roof trusses and roof sheeting on the project with roof and wall framing expected to be completed by the end of July. Practical completion of the project is due by early December 2019.
hallprior.com.au