Life & Love Issue 42 by Hall & Prior

Life&Love A HALL & PRIOR P U B L I CAT IO N H E A LT H & A G E D C A R E G R O U P

SUMMER 2023

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Celebrate the little things Bringing families together over the festive season

Life&Love A HALL & PRIOR PU B L IC ATI O N H E A LT H & A G E D C A R E G R O U P

From the Chief Executive Officer

News: Round-up of Hall & Prior’s news

Life & Love Issue 42 | Summer 2023

RUOK Day

Birrak (WA)

Remembrance Day

Gorray’murrai (NSW)

Delightful Miss Daisy Dog

Cover Story: 100 years not out

In Our Homes

Ageing with Attitude

Meet the DON: Lisa Spencer

Vision loss and mental health

My Favourite Things with Tessey Philladitisl

EDITOR Gabi Mills Gabi.Mills@hallprior.com.au DESIGNER Cally Browning cally@barecreative.com.au CONTRIBUTORS Jacki Downs Jacki.Downs@hallprior.com.au PHOTOGRAPHY Ammon Creative

EDITOR'S LETTER Summer is with us and has arrived with a bang in many parts of the country. With the increasingly warm temperatures, and the promise of the festive period just around the corner, we’ve pulled out all the stops to put together a bumper issue of Life & Love. I hope you enjoy reading the stories of some of our amazing centenarians - those who are 100 years of age or older. At any one time, there are over 4,000 centenarians in Australia and I was surprised how many we look after here at Hall & Prior. They all share a common zest for life and love of family - factors which perhaps play a part in their impressive longevity. We’ve also been very busy over the past few months in our 36 homes in WA and NSW and I think you will enjoy seeing the very many colourful and fun events everybody has been involved with, whatever their age. And a last honourable mention to Daisy the dog, a popular visitor at Bexley. What a cutie! I hope you enjoy this edition of Life & Love and I wish you a very merry Christmas and joyful New Year.

Gabi

COVER IMAGE Flora Rizzo, age 93, resident of Bexley Aged Care Home, NSW Printed by VANGUARD PRESS, WA HOGAN PRINT, NSW All rights reserved. No material published in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without prior written authority. Every endeavour is made to ensure information contained is correct at time of going to print. ©2023 Life & Love is published by Hall & Prior Health & Aged Care Group.

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A WORD FROM THE

Chief Executive Officer

s we head towards the end of the year, I’m reminded that Christmas is a time for family and faith, to celebrate the achievements of the past year, and look forward to the year ahead. It’s been another busy year as we, as an aged care organisation, adapt and evolve after COVID and the Royal Commission’s findings continue to effect the way we operate. Now that the festive season is here, with all the joy and opportunities to recharge associated with some time away from work, I want to reassure you all that Hall & Prior’s number one priority remains the same: to keep our residents and staff safe and well.

I believe that Hall & Prior’s motto Compassionate People, Dedicated to Care, has never been more relevant than now. After navigating the choppy waters of COVID, I believe as an aged care group we are in a strong position to continue offering experienced care to you and your loved ones, as well as a career path in the aged care sector with plenty of opportunities for continued growth. To those of you working over the Christmas break - thank you for the love, mercy and care you show our residents, who are some of the most vulnerable in our society. Your kindness, over what can be a lonely time for those without the chance to share festive joy together is greatly appreciated.

With 2024 just around the corner, I want to reassure all our staff, residents and families that Hall & Prior as a Group is as committed as ever to providing compassionate care.

For me, friendship and family is incredibly important at this time of the year. So from my family to yours, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year.

It has been a year of growth for Hall & Prior, with Emerald Life in West Leederville, Villa Dalmacia in Spearwood and three Braemar Group facilities, all in WA, joining our family of aged care communities.

I hope you are able to spend some time over the Christmas break to rest, reflect and recharge for 2024.

This brings the number of aged care homes and services to 36 in WA and NSW and we welcome all the new staff who have joined the Group, and residents who now call Hall & Prior home during 2023.

Stay safe, be kind and God bless.

GRAEME PRIOR Chief Executive Officer

CORPORATE NEWS

Aged Care CEOs push the envelope at Business News breakfast Hall & Prior’s CEO Graeme Prior was one of several aged care leaders who contributed to a well-attended Business News breakfast discussing the industry’s big issues.

inding innovative funding solutions, solving workforce shortages with international staff and implementing Royal Commission findings in aged care were all discussed during a Business News breakfast in early November.

the coalface of their industry in increasingly challenging times.

With a panel on the podium of aged care executives, including CEO of Hall & Prior Aged Care Group, Graeme Prior, a packed conference room of delegates heard insight from those working at

“People need to understand they are going to have to contribute to the costs of aged care,” said Ms Behjat, as reported by Business News’ Liv Declerck.

Aged and Community Care Providers Association state manager Liz Behjat said discourse around clients paying for aged care services needed to change.

“We pay for everything in

our life on the way, rent or mortgages or whatever, and then all of a sudden you reach a certain age and say, ‘it’s the government’s job to look after me now’. “That unfortunately cannot continue and there’s going to have to be a greater contribution done and as for what that looks like, we will have to wait and see.” Mr Prior echoed Ms Behjat’s words, saying an equitable funding system would mean people who have the money should be contributing to their aged care costs. “There has to be a user-pays process starting to germinate,” Ms Prior said. During the panel discussion this morning, industry leaders discussed the importance of tapping into alternative options for workforce challenges, with Ms Behjat saying international workers was a promising solution. The panel discussion was led by lawyer Amber Crosthwaite who specialises in aged care, seniors living and disability, and is a columnist for Business News.

Malnutrition Week kicks goals

ietitians Day was also celebrated on September 19, and this group are also very deserving of a shout out. Our team of dieticians on staff work very hard to support our residents through providing optimal food and nutrition. Ongoing and specialised training ensures dietitians are the reliable choice for lifechanging food and nutrition support. As we all have our own unique goals, challenges and lifestyles, our dieticians and nutrition experts understand that our health is not a onesize-fits-all approach.

Our dedicated Hall & Prior Aged Care Homes played a pivotal role in making this week a huge success through their participation in the activities organised both these teams. Here’s what they got up to: • Favourite Recipes: Some of the homes participated by submitting their favourite recipes, and the NHSP team will put these together in a recipe booklet.

• Cake Decorating Competition: Our facilities showcased their creativity and teamwork by taking part in a cake decoration competition. Their beautifully decorated cakes not only looked stunning but also carried an important message - the importance of balancing nutrition with the enjoyment of food and life to combat malnutrition. “We are immensely proud of our home team’s commitment to promoting health and nutrition,” said Wei Ping Lam, Senior Dietician. “Let’s continue to raise awareness about malnutrition and work together towards a healthier, more nourished future.”

Our NSW team enjoyed food activities with our home staff and residents, preparing for the new summer menu release in October 2023. Not only do the meals create a feeling of wellbeing and lifestyle, but our dedicated team are hard at work ensuring the dining experience in each home is of a premium quality. Malnutrition Week in October also gave our dieticians and speech pathologist teams the opportunity to shine.

Perfect score for Menaville To add to Hall & Prior’s growing collection of aged care facilities which have attained a perfect score during accreditation, Menaville in NSW makes the list too. Not only did they achieve 42/42, there were no actions to follow up on either – congratulations to the whole team! 5

CORPORATE NEWS

Did you know . . .

Aged care accommodation competition launched

n 17 October, Minister Anika Wells launched the aged care accommodation design ideas competition, Reimagining Where We Live. The Australian Government is calling architects, landscape architects and interior designers to help shape the future of aged care accommodation through the Reimagining Where We Live design ideas competition. The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety found less than half of residential aged care homes adopt accessible, dementia-friendly design principles. In response, the Australian Government released draft National Aged Care Design Principles and Guidelines to help aged care homes better meet the needs of aged care residents.

The competition encourages innovative ideas and accommodation solutions that support older people to live meaningful lives in safe environments that promote independence, function and a sense of belonging. The competition will show that ‘good design’ can improve quality of life and wellbeing for older people. The Australian Institute of Architects and the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects are endorsing and working with the Government to promote this important initiative. The competition is open to multidisciplinary design teams, led by a registered Australian architect or graduate of an Australian accredited architectural program. Entrant teams are

Hall & Prior Aged Care Group’s Karingal Green Health & Aged Care Community was named the ‘Best Mixed-Use Development by the Property Council of Australia in 2021 and also earned the ‘Ageing in Place award at the WINconnect Apartment Awards for Excellence. In 2023, the High Wycombe aged care community won the National Landscape Architecture Awards: Landscape Architecture Award for Health and Education Landscape, designed by Hassell.

encouraged to include the participation/involvement of people with lived experience of aged care, such as older people and their families and carers, service providers or aged care staff. An expert jury comprising nine eminent design and aged care sector professionals will evaluate submissions in February 2024. People with lived experience of dementia

Leading nurses recognised at annual awards will advise the jury - providing their unique insights about how each proposal might suit their needs and wants. Jury comments included the following: “This project exemplifies the pivotal role of landscape architects in fostering mental and physical wellbeing through increasing access to landscape and community in health settings.” Taking inspiration from the Aboriginal Australian meaning ‘happy home’ or ‘happy camp’, the design integrates a range of usable open spaces to enhance connectivity with the outside and interaction between residents, staff and visitors. Additional awards for Karingal Green include 2020 Winner of Seniors Living category, Urban Development Institute of Australia’s Western Australia (WA) Awards and the 2020 Commendation for Public Architecture, Australian Institute of Architects’ WA Chapter Awards.

urses and midwives across Western Australia were celebrated for their outstanding contribution to the public health system at the 2023 WA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards (WANMEA) Gala Ball. The Awards - now in its 19th year - recognises more than 43,000 highly skilled nursing and midwifery workforce working across the State in public, private and nongovernment sectors. This year’s awards were presented across 13 categories, representing a wide range of roles performed by nurses and midwives in diverse settings across WA’s health system, including the Lifetime Achievement Award sponsored by Hall & Prior Aged Care Group. Unusually, there were two additions to the WANMEA Lifetime Achievement Honour roll this year.

Anne Bourke, Executive Director of Perth Children’s Hospital Clinical Nurse Immunisation Services and Professor Leanne Monterosso, Chair of Nursing at St John of God Hospital and The University of Notre Dame were presented with their awards by CEO Graeme Prior and Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson. “These awards provide an opportunity to publicly recognise and celebrate the achievements of our nurses and midwives,” said Ms Sanderson. “They play an integral role in our health system and are at the forefront of providing the essential care and support people require through various stages of their life. “All of the finalists and winners should be proud of their achievements - they make a difference in the lives of Western Australians every day.” 7

Hear, hear for Grafton’s innovative project Grafton’s hard-of-hearing residents have been the beneficiaries of a new project, improving lives so much more than just being able to hear what’s on the TV.

ur ears hide a very delicate auditory system which can start to fail for a variety of reasons, including the ageing process. “Poor hearing causes social isolation and can accelerate symptoms of dementia.,” said Director of Nursing at Grafton, Pattie Iredale. In late 2022, the clinical team at Grafton identified an area of need around hearing which included the care and cleaning of hearing aids, the availability of hearing screening and the identification and removal of wax build up. The project, which has been taken on with gusto by clinical staff at Grafton and in association with Hearing Australia, has taken a multifaceted approach to meeting a variety of needs. A Hearing Australia representative meets with residents at Grafton who have hearing aids or who may need screening. A follow-up session is booked as required, and the audiologist attends hearing tests onsite as well. As part of this program, many of the care staff and nursing staff have had in-service education around the care and cleaning of hearing aids as well as instruction in identifying wax build-up in ear canals. As a result of this input from Hearing Australia, Assistant in Nursing Team Leaders now check and change hearing aid batteries for those who need them at least once a week, and can assist with trouble shooting hearing aids to ensure they are working as well as possible.

“Wax removal was previously very difficult as residents had to go out to the clinics to have this sorted out,” said Ms Iredale. “Partnering with one of the local GPs, training in ear syringing was provided to the Registered Nurses.” The new equipment, combined with the upskilling of the RN, team has meant that wax can now be removed onsite as required. The care teams’ new skills and education around this area of need has improved the quality of life for many residents and reduced the burden on families who were previously required to take their loved ones out to have this done. “Our Registered Nurses are documenting the hearing care needs in the sensory care plan in iCare, and we are using this to create the list of who needs to be seen by Hearing Australia when they visit,” she said. Another plus was the relatively low-cost vs results for this new approach. “Hearing Australia is a government-funded service so there have been no costs to Hall & Prior. The only cost has been in the purchase of the ear syringing device and accessories.”

Mosaic patterns, giant eels and starry skies

In WA it’s Birak - season of the young.

his is the Indigenous season which sees the rains ease up and the warm weather really start to take hold. The afternoons are cooled by the sea breezes that abound from the southwest. In the past, this was the fire season, a time to burn the country in mosaic patterns. An almost clockwork style of easterly winds in the morning and sea breezes in the afternoon, meant that traditionally this was the burning time of year for Nyoongar people. They would burn the country in mosaic patterns for several reasons including fuel reduction, increasing the grazing pastures for some animals, to aid in seed germination for some plants and for ease of mobility across the country.

As for the animals, there are many fledglings now venturing out of nests, though some are still staying close to their parents. Reptiles are looking to shed their old skin for a new one.

their way down the rivers and creeks to the ocean.

With the rising temperatures and the decreasing rainfall, it’s also time for the baby frogs to complete their transformation into adulthood.

As January begins until March, the season becomes Gadalung Marool which is hot and dry.

Thanks to the lack of rain, the night skies are clear and punctuated by a multitude of stars, clearly visible to all, especially far away from the light pollution of the big cities of WA. Meanwhile in NSW, November December is known as Goray’murrai, a season which is typically warm and wet. This season begins with the Great Eel Spirit calling his children to him, and the eels which are ready to mate make

It is the time of the blooming of the Kai’arrewan (Acacia binervia) which announces the occurrence of fish in the bays and estuaries.

The behaviour of the male kangaroos becomes quite aggressive in this season, and it is a sign that the eating of meat is traditionally forbidden during this time. Because of the heat of the day meat does not keep, and the likelihood of food poisoning is apparent. The blooming of the Weetjellan (Acacia implexa) is an important sign that fires must not be lit unless they are well away from bushland and on sand only, and that there will be violent storms and heavy rain, so camping near creeks and rivers is not recommended. 9

Freshwater Bay Aged Care Home

Asking questions keeps us connected R U OK? Day is an annual event designed to keep the lines of communication open between our work colleagues, our loved ones and the community at large. This year, our aged care homes asked this important question many times and listened carefully to the answers.

he team at Freshwater Bay went to great heights to celebrate R U OK? Day on September 14. Residents and staff enjoyed a morning tea of sweet treats, followed by a yummy lunch of pizzas to farewell their nursing students. Staff members Calixto Garrucho and Wilfred Santiago took the celebration a little further by embarking on an adventure in the Stirling Ranges. Tackling both Bluff Knoll and Mount Hassell, they walked 9.5km and climbed over 1,098 metres above sea level - a fantastic effort. A familiar face paid a return visit to Mosman Park in Perth on R U OK? Day.

Janice Rooney, an ex-Director of Nursing of the aged care home, dropped in to say hello to the current team and residents. Janice went on to be a part of the Quality team and was more than happy to join in the conversation on this important day for the Hall & Prior team. Don’t the special yellow cupcakes created for the occasion look delicious? At Fairfield in Sydney staff and residents joined together and asked each other R U OK? R U OK? Day encourages all Australians to as the question, ‘are you OK?’. It’s a great chance to create a culture where people feel confident asking and answering this simple yet

important question, and these conversations can make a real difference to people going through a tough time. At Hall & Prior, we believe it gives us all an important opportunity to check in on each other and make sure that work colleagues and those who live in our aged care homes are travelling well. Staff laid on a delicious morning tea too which always makes things extra OK . . . Other aged care homes within the Group also marked this important day to keep an eye on each other – and like every day, our staff are always there to listen to residents who may not be feeling OK for whatever reason.

Fairfield Aged Care Home

Mosman Park Aged Care Home

Fairfield Aged Care Home

Mosman Park Aged Care Home

Agmaroy Aged Care Home

Karringal Green Aged Care Home

Agmaroy Aged Care Home

This page: Freshwater Bay Aged Care Home

Remembrance Day a poignant reminder of sacrifice and service

n November 9 at 10.45am, the Mertome Retirement Village and Aged Care Home community gathered at the Mertome Memorial Garden by the halfmast flags. They were there to pay their respects and remember all the service men and women who have fallen serving their countries. Included in our guests were those who have served their countries as well as the loved ones of service people, with medals from service proudly adorning lapels. Members of the Mertome community participated in the moving service, explaining why Remembrance Day is special to Australians, leading The Prayer of Remembrance and reciting The Ode of Remembrance. Wreaths were laid by members of the care home and retirement village at the

Memorial Garden and a oneminute silence to reflect. It was a very poignant memorial which created a stillness around the village. Afterwards a morning tea with ANZAC biscuits and Lamingtons was enjoyed by all. There was reminiscence of residents who had left the community and also catch up between old friends. It was a solemn occasion mirrored in many of Hall & Prior’s aged care homes in WA and NSW, where residents and staff paused at 11am to remember those who had served their country and perhaps not returned home.

to learn from these brave men and women, who sacrificed their lives for the greater good of humanity. “As CEO of Hall & Prior, it is my great honour to spend time with our veterans in our homes in WA and NSW. We have recorded the stories of many of these heroes over the past few years and I believe this is an important role for us to play. By recording for posterity their memories and insight into their experiences of warfare, we can listen and learn from the past as we move forward into the future.”

“Veterans play a special part in our homes and we care for more than 100 ex-servicemen and women in WA and NSW,” said CEO of Hall & Prior, Graeme Prior.

For many, the wars they endured are still hard for them to talk about, despite the years that have passed, but we take the responsibility of honouring their memories and recording their thoughts for future generations to hear seriously and with the greatest respect.

“I believe we still have much

Lest we forget.

The language of dementia How we express terms around dementia is an important part of supporting those living with a diagnosis.

The following terms/ phrases are preferred when talking about dementia/a person with dementia/behaviours Dementia Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia A type of dementia A person/people with dementia A person/people living with dementia A person/people with a diagnosis of dementia Responsive behaviours Changed behaviour(s)

By KATIE CONCIATORE Behaviour and Cognition Clinical Nurse, Hall & Prior.

ementia is used to describe many conditions or diseases that affect a person’s judgement, memory, mood and communication. There are over 130 different types of conditions or diseases that cause dementia. I often explain dementia by comparing it to cancer. You may have cancer but there are many different types of cancer, and they need to be treated in different ways. This is the case for dementia and the different types such as Alzheimer’s disease or Front-temporal dementia. In July 2021, Dementia Australia published the “Dementia Language

Guidelines, to promote and raise awareness of the importance of appropriate, inclusive and non-stigmatising language when talking about people living with dementia. This was created due to the simple fact that ‘words matter and the way we talk about dementia and the people living with it can be impactful. There are many misconceptions or myths about dementia within our society and by using negative language, such as the word ‘sufferer’, it reinforces negative stereotypes and focuses on the disease rather than the person. A person living with dementia still has many abilities and opportunities for meaningful engagement and can participate within their communities positively. Not everyone with dementia is/or needs to suffer. Instead, we as a community need to employ a variety of approaches to

Expressions of unmet needs The following terms/ phrases should not be used when talking about dementia/a person with dementia/ behaviours Dementing illness Demented Sufferer Victim Demented person Behaviour(s) of concern Challenging behaviours Difficult behaviours

support people living with a dementia diagnosis and their families/loved ones. This column will play a role in the future in highlighting some of the areas for improvement or learning that can assist to do this. 15

PRIOR’S PETS

This furry little visitor to Bexley sets our hearts alight when popping into our home.

aisy is a French Bulldog who comes in to visit with her owner, Belinda, daughter of Bexley resident Frances. “I had never envisaged that retiring from work would result in ‘grand puppy duty’ with little Daisy,” said Belinda. “Daisy was quickly taken wherever I went - hairdressers, visiting friends, volunteering for the Lifeline online shop and visiting mum at Bexley. She has a beautiful little soul and is such a gentle puppy.” Daisy made her debut at Bexley by giving so many warm hugs to our elderly

residents in only the way a loveable puppy can. Lu, Director of Nursing at Bexley, graciously gave permission for Daisy’s visitations when Frances first moved into the home. But it was Lifestyle Coordinator, Tam, who would watch the precious pup when Belinda came by to see her mother and was so impressed with how soft, kind and gentle Daisy was, that she had a bright idea. She suggested that Daisy could spread her doggy love throughout the home to all the residents who particularly hold a special place for doggy goodness.

P RI O R

’

Delightful Miss Daisy Dog

T S

It’s fair to say the home has not looked back. Residents always smile with great joy when the little tail-wagger comes into the home, with everyone looking forward to the special Daisy pup hug that is coming their way. Ever the attention-stealer, Daisy now sits with residents of all cultures and is learning words in Italian, German, Greek and Chinese as each resident speaks their own special message to her. A very photogenic girl, you can see images of her all around the home as she enjoys the attention and cuddles.

COVER STORY

years

not

out

There are plenty of centenarians who call Hall & Prior home, and in a special feature for the final issue of Life & Love this year, we meet those residents who have reached the 100-year mark – and more. By Gabi Mills.

f you had been born in 1900, you would be lucky to see the age of 32.

It’s a shocking fact that reflects how hard life was back in those days - and the amazing advances in medical care, diet and other health factors that have improved life expectancy since the dawn of the 20th century. Fast-forward to 2023, and on average, we can all expect to reach 73.2 years, with an expectation that this will increase to 77.1 years by 2050. If you’re lucky enough to soar past the average age and go on to receive a personal message from the King on your 100th birthday, congratulations. According to statistics, there are over 4,000 people aged 100 years or older living in Australia right now. By 2050, it’s believed there will be more than 50,000 people aged 100 and over.

According to National Seniors Australia, a not-for-profit membership and advocacy organisation for older Australians, research has shown that centenarians develop faster, more effective immune responses to infections. 18

“Researchers from Tufts Medical Centre and Boston University School of Medicine have found that centenarians possess a unique immune cell composition and activity, giving them a highly functional immune system and allowing them to live longer,” reports the organisation. “Centenarians tend to have delayed onset of age-related diseases such as cancer, stroke, and cardiovascular disease. This suggests that their immune systems remain healthier for longer compared with other people.” The study seemed to indicate that these people’s longevity is the result of specific immune adaptations allowing them to recover from disease and reach extreme old ages. So in many cases, it’s all in the DNA about whether you’ll reach 100 or not – as well as living well and other outside factors over the journey of a lifetime. At Hall & Prior’s aged care homes in WA and NSW, we honour this special cohort of centenarians, many of whom have surpassed the 100-year-old mark. Here’s a snapshot of some of their stories and the secret to their longevity.

ARTHUR LEGGETT, 105, and DOT STEVENSON, 101 (overleaf) Karingal Green, WA

Arthur Leggett inspires all who meet him. A veteran of the Second World War and passionate advocate for those who have served, Arthur has strong opinions about war and many other things. “The main thing I have learned over my 100plus years is the absolute futility of war,” he says. “It seems to achieve nothing. My father died from the effects of First World War. I spent over four years in a prison of war camp in Germany, and when I did get back to Australia, half my teenage mates were gone. “I also learned in Germany that amongst the enemy there are some very fine people who I will call my friends anywhere and at any time.” As far as advice he would offer the younger generation, Arthur is an advocate for putting others’ needs before their own. “My generation made sacrifices so that they can live the way they do today,” he says. “In my younger days, we had to learn to be a mixed nation and to care for each other and

to learn to live in harmony within our own country and pass it to the rest of the world. I have been giving the ANZAC Day addresses in high schools for a number of years now and the message that I pass on is the wonderful way we live in this country has been paid for by the lives of men who have fallen in previous combats in the belief that they were saving the country from the enemy.” Over his 105 years, Arthur considers his greatest achievement as ‘staying alive for 105 years!’. “I also think getting a house of my own and a wife in itself is a major accomplishment. My daughters visit me regularly and that is the way they were brought up by their mother before she passed away. “I think it is family love too because there are so many families that lack that affection. I can name five generations of my family at the moment amounting to some 56 people. We regularly get together twice each year so we can be in touch. I think that is my greatest accomplishment.” To commemorate Arthur’s 105th birthday, the Honourable Chris Dawson, Governor of WA, attended Karingal Green to give him a special medallion. 19

COVER STORY

RIE (DELIA) SAXTON, 102 Clarence Estate, WA

Born on June 29, 1921, Delia Rosemarie Saxton – known as Rie – grew up in the UK before moving to Australia and living on remote sheep stations with no power in the outback. According to a newspaper article about Rie’s milestone birthday, ‘Ms Saxton was an English rose who arrived in Australia and got swept off her feet by an Australian bushy’. “I make the most of every day and don’t take life too seriously,” says Rie when asked what she’s learned over her 101 years. Describing herself as a good cook and passionate gardener, she considers her greatest achievements in life her family. “After being swept off my feet by a gentlemanly bushman and promptly whisked away to the Australian outback, we had no modern day luxuries, no power, a dirt floor and had to make everything from scratch – from loaves of bread to learning how to roast mutton – and everything in between.” Rie spent several years in Canada, looking after children escaping the threat of war. “It was an epic thing for me,” she recalls. “It’s where I also discovered rum!” Fellow Karingal Green resident Dot Stevenson also reached an impressive milestone recently, turning 101. She says her long life is down to three simple factors. “I keep fit and exercise daily,” she says. “I also think we should be kind to everybody and show tolerance to all, and I’ve been blessed with a very good marriage and friendship.” Mina Pindolia, Executive Director of Nursing at Karingal Green is in awe of these two wonderful residents. “Arthur and Dot are a true inspiration for us all – they both attend the Wellness Centre twice a week. It’s just amazing.”

Nowadays, Rie maintains her sunny disposition on life by always having a brandy and dry every day (“it’s kept me youthful, I rarely over indulge”), and suggests having younger friends is the key to keeping young oneself. “Be social! I kept social and busy by volunteering at sewing groups and being a docent at the zoo.” A proud great grandmother to Grace, 3 and Clancy, 4, Rie is still capable of joining in a game of footy or two with the younger generation and even taking a trip aboard a boat to go squidding in the ocean close to her Albany home. Her final piece of advice is simple. “Don’t dwell on things – just get on with it!”

GEORGE’S MILESTONE BIRTHDAY CELEBRATED On September 10, the staff and residents of Clover Lea Aged Care Home in Burwood Heights, NSW, celebrated the 100th birthday of fellow resident, George Watkins. Born on September 12 in 1923, George was joined by family and friends who gathered at the home on Sunday to throw a birthday party for him. It was a heartwarming occasion filled with laughter and cherished memories. During the party, family members shared stories from his youth, and some of his skating buddies and neighbours joined us to share delightful anecdotes. His nephew even read him a birthday card from King Charles. Everyone enjoyed delicious food and stories while reflecting on his remarkable 100 years. Notably, that day also happened to be the four-month birthday of his great-grandnephew. Seeing a four-month-old baby and 100-yearold George together in photos reminded us of the circle of life and time passing. Congratulations George! 21

COVER STORY DAPHNE HISSEY, 100 Hocart Lodge, WA

On the day before Halloween, Hocart Lodge resident Daphney Hissey turned 100-years of age. Another English rose, Daphne credits her resilience to the fact she went through the war in England. “I learned that peace is important as a result,” she says. Once she was in Australia, it was the pastoral life which gave her the greatest joy in her life. “My greatest achievement was looking after my cattle,” says Daphne. “I loved farming and bringing up my children on the land.” And Daphne’s secret to a long life? “Don’t smoke, enjoy sports and celebrate the fact that you live in Australia.”

NORMAN JONES, 102 Montana, NSW

Norman Jones was born in Frenchs Forest, Sydney on August 25, 1921. After serving and surviving the First World War, his father returned with a bride and soon after, Norman was born. He spent most of his youth working in the railway industry and until he met his wife, Isabelle, he says trains were the ‘only thing on his mind’. Norman moved into Montana four years ago and still receives regular visits from his wonderful carers, Glenys and Michael. A big fan of painting, Norman is a regular at Montana art classes every Friday where he spends some time flexing his creative muscles. Like painting, Norman believes that ‘good things take time’, and his greatest achievement is to make it to 100. Congratulations, Norman! 22

My greatest achievement was looking after my cattle.” Daphney Hissey, 100

LUBA ZASLAVSKY, 102 Vaucluse, NSW

Having just turned 102, Luba Zaslavsky will no doubt celebrate her special day by eating some chocolate. Born in Odessa, Ukraine on November 4, 1921, Luba’s husband owned a chocolate company in Odessa before the pair moved to Bondi, Sydney many years ago.

Finding pleasure in simple things like a beautiful bloom tucked behind her ear, Luba loves her family and these days, lives peacefully at Vaucluse, listening to her beloved classical music.

Luba lives peacefully at Vaucluse, listening to her beloved classical music. 23

COVER STORY EDNA FAIRALL, 102, Caroline Chisholm, NSW

A Sydneysider born on June 18, 1921, Edna Fairall is a lady of faith who puts family all. “I am of the Catholic religion although I’m now non-practicing – although I do enjoy saying prayers with the Lifestyle team here at Caroline Chisholm,” she says. After a career working in local Government and raising two sons, Edna’s advice to the younger generation is to ‘work hard, value your family, be content with what you have and to enjoy your life’. “I would say also to be thoughtful and kind to others,” says Edna. “Don’t take life for granted – the only person you can really rely on is yourself.” As she looks forward to her 103rd year, Edna believes her greatest achievements are two things – her family and her faith. SHEILA MURRAY, 101 Glenwood, NSW

Born in Sydney on October 23, 1922, Sheila Murray describes her family background and life as ‘quintessentially Australian’. Having grown up on the north shore of Sydney, Sheila loved attending a school locally but was excited to visit her horse most afternoons. “My horse was kept in a nearby paddock,” she recalls. “In those days, there were many of those around on the north side of Sydney.” An amiable lady who advocates ‘liking everybody and being nice’ as the secret to a long, happy life, she believes that being kind goes a long way. “It’s a good feeling to be a nice person,” she says. She considers her greatest achievement her family. “I am very blessed,” says Sheila.

It’s a good feeling to be a nice person.” Sheila Murray, 101 24

Don’t take life for granted – the only person you can really rely on is yourself.” Edna Fairall, 102

SHUHUA SUN, 102 Caroline Chisholm, NSW

Shuhua Sun may be a long way from her original birthplace, but Caroline Chisholm Aged Care Home is where she is happiest these days. Born in China on January 10, 1921, Shuhua speaks Mandarin and has a son called Guo Liang Sun who visits his mother almost every day. “I love my son and my grandchildren very much,” she says. A non-practicing Buddhist, Shuhua believes her family is her greatest achievement

I enjoy walking and doing my own exercises every day” Shuhua Sun, 102

and continues to keep active despite her impressive age. “I enjoy walking and doing my own exercises every day,” she says. “I enjoy being in my room too, and I am thankful for everyone here at Caroline Chisholm who look after me. I am very happy here.”

SOFIJANKA DOJCINOVSKA, 101 Menaville, NSW

At the age of 50, Sofijanka Dojcinovska moved to Australia from Babino in Macedonia, along with her two daughters (Mitika and Dosta) and son, Tale. She joined her husband Dimko who was already waiting in Australia to welcome his family. Sofijanka was the oldest of three siblings (two sisters and one brother) and at the age of 10, she lost her mother. “I worked very hard in the fields on our farm my entire life to raise my siblings,” she recalls. “I woke up early at four the morning to go to work in the fields so that I could look after my family.” She used to return home in the afternoon to prepare lunch for the family and then go back to work in fields. It certainly was a hard life for the young woman but by the age of 24, she married Dimko and went on to have her two beautiful daughters and son.

“We all loved her cooking as she used to cook everything at home from scratch,” says Mitika. “She looked after us and our kids and gave us a beautiful life, passing the Macedonian culture on to us.” She also recalled how her mum used to fast for seven weeks before Easter and two weeks before Christmas, asking her to do the same and now. “I have started fasting now, following my Mum’s footsteps.”

She continued working in the fields with her daughters until she came to Australia.

This reflects Sofijanka’s advice to the younger generation.

Daughter Mitika said her mum was a very hardworking and strong lady who worked very hard during her life.

“Pass on the cultural and religious traditions to young people and be kind towards each other, working hard for a better life.”

XIU RU CHEN, 101 Concorde, WA

Ms Chen known as Mama Chen - turned 101 years of age in October this year. She has witnessed many key historical periods in China, from the Republic of China era (1911 to 1949), constant fighting among warlords (1916 to 1926), World War II (1939 to 1945), the establishment of the People’s Republic of China (1949), the Cultural Revolution (1966 to 1976) until the economic reform in China in 1978. Mama Chen says the highlight of her life has been reuniting with her daughter since she migrated to Perth in 1996. She has really enjoyed the clean environment, beautiful scenery and friendly people in Australia. Some of the things Mama Chen has learned in life and would like to pass on the advice to the younger generations include never giving up hope, studying hard to acquire knowledge and skills, following tradition and looking after your family, and living a disciplined life. “Never spend too much on personal indulgences such as food or money,” she says. Mama Chen has been at Concorde Nursing Home since 2015 and owes her longevity in part to the wonderful service and dedicated staff.

Never spend too much on personal indulgences such as food or money,” Xiu Ru Chen, 101 27

IN OUR HOMES

Little Helpers brighten our days Clover Lea Aged Care Home

very year, our young friends from the ‘Little Helpers on the Run’ project visit staff and residents at Clover Lea in NSW. Their visit is nothing short of a heartwarming experience, filling our home with youthful joy and warmth. Sharing chocolates, capturing precious moments through photographs, and recounting life’s recent adventures, these youngsters and our elderly residents form bonds that transcend age. One touching moment captured Marven holding little Aish in her arms. This annual tradition has allowed Marven to witness Aish’s journey from her toddlerhood, year after year. Their connection, built through these visits, exemplifies the enduring impact of these intergenerational friendships.

Shangri-La Aged Care Home

Training Future Registered Nurses for Aged Care

Praise be!

e were full of praise for the gospel singers from Peakhurst Revival Church who came by to uplift the residents of Shangri-La with their amazing voices and words of wisdom and kindness. Here at Shangri-La in NSW residents were keen to have the opportunity to hear the gospel and be encouraged in their faith. Every season of life has particular challenges and this soulful music can offer a comforting effect. With the words of the gospel, those residents who believe can be engaged in conversation and encouraged to socialise through song and prayer. The gospel singers also rehearsed the gospel with attending residents.

Fairfield Aged Care Home

t was a pleasure to host four wonderful Registered Nurse students for four weeks at Fairfield in NSW recently. The placement was a wonderful success with all four students learning new skills and more importantly, how to interact with all of our residents in the aged care environment. It was very special to see how these wonderful students approached their

roles as these students are the RNs of the future. They learned lots of skills from our own RN staff which has helped them to understand the important role RNs play in the field of aged care. It was sad to see them go, so to thank them for their efforts, the Fairfield staff arranged a little farewell party with our residents to wish them well for their futures.

It was very special to see how these wonderful students approached their roles 29

Caroline Chisholm Aged Care Home

Magical times for all

hat a superb and magical show we enjoyed here at Caroline Chisholm when magician ‘Billy’ popped in to amaze us. Billy is well-known around our region for his comedic magical show, so it was a full house with residents and family visitors watching in fascination as some ingenious magic unfolded right before their eyes. Residents, family and some staff assisted with a couple of the tricks, which makes it very believable as no guest 30

has any tricks up their sleeves. The rings and the card tricks had us all sitting with mouths wide open as we tried to make logical sense of how this magic worked. We look forward to some more ‘Billy’ magic soon.

IN OUR HOMES

Hartalika Teej! Vaucluse staff and residents in NSW were brought together in honour of a beautiful festival called Teej!, which is a celebration in Nepal to recognise the well-being of spouses and children. The staff dressed in their best outfits, all with a touch of red following our theme. Residents and staff celebrated with a flautist entertainer who played a mix of tunes and everybody had great dance moves to match! The residents weren’t ready to call it a day, so we played music on the TV and continued the dance party after our concert.

Vaucluse Aged Care Home

Aubrey Downer Aged Care Home

Mornings in the Garden With this fine and warm weather we have enjoyed in NSW over recent weeks, we have been making the most of the garden at Aubrey Downer Aged Care Home and enjoying lots of activities in the fresh air. Morning tea has been a favourite as was balloon tossing, which resident Marjorie thought was hilarious! Marjorie also had a nice time hosing the garden to keep the grass nice and green. 31

IN OUR HOMES

Raise a glass to

Octoberfest

Kensington Park Aged Care Home

ur residents at Kensington Park Aged Care Home with their guests from our friends at Concorde Aged Care Home too embraced the beer festival and carnival atmosphere in late October. The event was filled with laughter, good music, a BBQ, some non-alcoholic beers as well as an Oktoberfest dressup, a photo booth and a whole lot of fun of togetherness.

Glenwood Aged Care Home

ow do you make Oktoberfest celebrations even more fun? Combine a fabulous outdoor BBQ session with the festiveness of this German extravaganza at Glenwood Aged Care Home in NSW. It was a bright, warm and perfect day with most residents joining in the fun for an outdoor BBQ area along with some family members and staff. Everyone was

enjoying the smell of the BBQ and crisp German beers as well as the lively music which had us bopping along. We finished off our festival with some tasty apple pies. The atmosphere was so vibrant and happy that even our family members could not help but comment on staff and residents smiling faces! As they say in Germany, prost!

Braemar House

Terrific terrariums at Braemar House Who doesn’t love gardening? For some of our greenthumbed residents at Braemar House however, the physical challenges of getting to grips with gardening is just too hard these days. So the lifestyle staff came up with an idea to make mini terrariums, allowing each person to create their own person miniature garden to look after. A terrarium is usually a sealable glass container containing soil and plants that can be opened to tend to the plants inside no heavy digging or lifting required! This idea was welcomed with enthusiasm and the outcome was just amazing, as we think you’ll agree. The residents were so proud of their creations - congrats to all involved.

IN OUR HOMES Fairfield Aged Care Home

Diwali

lights up our homes M

any members of Hall & Prior staff celebrate Diwali, including Kausalia Apparao, our General Manager of Finance. On Friday in the WA Head Office, Kausalia and her finance colleagues hosted a special Diwali morning tea. It was a great opportunity for everybody to share some Diwali treats today and find out more about this important celebration. Diwali means many things to different people, but for Kausalia, it’s all about the opportunity to

celebrate her culture. “For me, Diwali has taught me to proud of my Indian heritage (though I am Malaysian!) and celebrate the uniqueness of my culture and share it with my workmates and friends in Perth,” she said. “Above all, Diwali is a reminder to give back to the community. My family and I have a tradition of contributing to charitable causes during this time, as it reinforces the spirit of compassion and giving. “I am hoping this festival tells

Clover Lea Aged Care Home

Fairfield Aged Care Home

Bemont Aged Care Home

a story to my girls, Isha (18) and Mahi (15), and celebrates the culture that we inherited from our upbringing in Malaysia and India.”

“To me, Diwali is a tradition that focuses on positivity, letting go of the past and looking forward to the future,” said Shilpa.

Our homes in WA tucked into some very special seasonal treats, thanks to one of our employees.

“The essence of Diwali is all about family, food, hugs, lots of colourful clothes and fireworks. During the Diwali, we go to pray at our temples, have family get-togethers and call our relatives near and far - not forgetting to think about the loved ones we have lost.

The boxes were filled with sweet (landoos, pendas and barfis)and savoury treats (ghantiya and bhusu) thanks to Shree Swaminarayan Temple in Perth, Shilpa’s temple.

“We decorate our houses with candles, rangoli (art made of colourful sand) and lights.”

A card from CEO Graeme Prior completed this little box of treats.

Shilpa Kerai, who’s family is originally from Gujarat in India, works in our accounts department in Perth, and came up with the bright idea of supplying all our WA homes with some traditional Diwali sweet and savoury treats to mark this year’s Festival of Lights.

Bemont Aged Care Home

As she packed up the special boxes ready to be delivered in time for Diwali, she said it was always a pleasure to do something special for her Hall & Prior colleagues. 35

IN OUR HOMES

Grafton Aged Care Home

Pink It Up for

Breast Cancer During October, Grafton residents and staff dug out their very best pink gear for an afternoon of bright pink fun and games to raise awareness for breast cancer.

The whole month of October is breast Cancer Awareness month and luckily the day we chose to raise awareness also happened to be national Cake Decorating Day as well. We took the opportunity to decorate pink cupcakes to go

with our afternoon cuppas and it was wonderful to listen to Director of Nursing, Pattie, give an informative speech about the value of early detection, treatment, and the support breast cancer nurses can provide for patients and their families. The topic was very near and dear to all our breast cancer survivors. While Grafton in NSW was doing its bit to raise

Grafton Aged Care Home

awareness for breast cancer, over on the other side of the country in the south-west of WA, Hocart Lodge was also adding its voice to this important issue. As October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, the staff and residents at Hocart Lodge wore pink to highlight the significance of breast cancer. They also tucked into some special pink cupcakes for afternoon tea.

Grafton Aged Care Home

Hocart Lodge

A truly Golden opportunity Tuia Lodge

through the cars, so we kept the windows open. Then it was off to the Mushroom Cafe for a delicious lunch of snapper, chips and salad, with every plate left clean. After that, they took a short drive up the Avenue of Honour, lined with enormous English oaks with Diggers names on plaques beneath the spreading boughs. It made everybody remember that famous adage: Lest We Forget.

lessed with a beautiful spring day recently, the OTAs (Caroline and Julie) capitalised on the fine weather and took two cars loads of Tuia Lodge residents down to Balingup for a lunch and visit to the stunning Golden Valley Tree Park. For those not in the know, it’s the biggest arboretum in Western Australia - and a

really beautiful spot for a day trip. After a good look around the park, they took a drive through the pine forest next door. Residents were loving the smell of pine wafting

On the drive home, the residents spotted lambs and calves frolicking in the paddocks as we passed Balingup. Residents talked about the outing for days afterwards - what a wonderful trip.

Hocart Lodge

IN OUR HOMES

Divine Devi turns 60

Tuohy Aged Care Home

67 years together and counting

he staff and residents of Tuohy Aged Care Home were so privileged recently to share the joy of Derek and Amelia Wright’s 67th wedding anniversary. They were both born in the UK and married there in 1956 before emigrating to Australia in 1958. The couple had three daughters who visit their parents regularly at Tuohy. Derek worked as a public servant as a store person with ACC for over 33 years and took pride in his ingenuity when providing customer service. He enjoys spending time outdoors and having good conversations with others. He likes a variety of music from the 50s and 60s, watching war movies, going for walks and used to enjoy fishing and bush walking. Amelia raised their three girls and enjoyed cooking, picking fruit and looking after all the

livestock. She has enjoyed spending 67 years of her life with her husband and enjoys doing things together with him. She also enjoys the company of other ladies and loves to keep busy doing anything with her hands. The pair lived on a semi-rural property in nearby Herne Hill prior to coming to Tuohy. And the key to a long and happy marriage? It’s to enjoy doing things together and not enjoying being apart at all. Many congratulations to the couple!

Mosman Park & Freshwater Bay Aged Care Homes

t was party time in Perth recently as Devi Subramaniam, Director of Nursing of Mosman Park and Freshwater Bay Aged Care Homes celebrated her 60th birthday. On this very special day, staff dressed up to the nines to make sure Devi knew just how valued and loved she is as one of Hall & Prior’s most experienced nurses and leaders. A beautiful special cake, flower wall and a balloon archway made the occasion extra glamorous. Happy birthday Devi from all your friends and colleagues at Hall & Prior!

Smiles from far and wide

Emerald Life Aged Care Home

ll those at Emerald Life in West Leederville love to embrace multiculturalism. “We currently have 23 residents who come from 22 different countries,” says Director of Nursing Deb Worth. “Our OT department celebrates ‘cultural days’ where cultural meals are served and residents are transported to the country using Google maps,” said Deb. Information about each resident is documented on their individualised ‘About Me’ which includes their ethnicity, people who are important to them, what they loved to do when they were

younger, favourite music etc. “Our OT Laura also develops communication cards which are placed in their room to assist them and the staff. Currently Laura is sourcing community visiting schemes for volunteers from other countries who will visit one of the residents who speaks their native language.

“We had 16 nations represented,” said Deb, “and we were blessed to have a speaker from the Ethnic Communities Council, Dr Sharan Kraemer who brings a wealth and knowledge about multiculturalism in Australia.” Thank you to Sharan and the whole team who were nothing less than amazing.

“We also like to celebrate multiculturalism for our staff.” In September the aged care home held a fascinating day where many staff dressed up in their national costumes, brought in food from their culture and shared their history. 39

IN OUR HOMES

Winners are grinners

at Aged Care Games Leighton and Emerald Life Aged Care Homes

t was time for the Aged Care Games with Leighton taking on Emerald Life Aged Care Home in Perth. The Aged Care Game was set up to provide a memorable experience for both homes through adapted games in outdoor Beatty Park across from Leighton. During the months leading up to the event, residents who participated in the games had practiced each of the games hard, including seated hockey, bean bag toss, corn holes, ten pin bowling etc.

A big shoutout to all Leighton staffs who have dedicated time and effort in organising the event, developing yellow team colour shit, flags, signs, decorations, and refreshing morning tea. With a perpetual trophy cup and hamper awarded to the winning team, each participant also received a gold medal and a participation certificate. Both homes are thrilled and looking forward to the upcoming Aged Care Games in 2024.

Clarence Estate

Spring has sprung at Clarence House C

larence Estate Residential and Home Care along with Friends of Clarence held their Annual Spring Fair at the Jennifer Grieve Home and Community Care Centre on Saturday November 4. The staff would like to thank all our volunteers and stall holders who helped make it such a successful day.

There were raffles, a cake stall, jumble stall, Devonshire tea and scones, plant stalls and a variety of arts and crafts stalls and more. Cycling Without Age also attended giving free rides on the bikes for all to enjoy. Our residents, clients, families and friends that attended had a great day.

Ageing with

attitude

Sandra Harris Ramini, author, broadcaster and committed bon viveur in her 80s, has written a book celebrating reaching and embracing old age. Here she shares her thoughts on what being 70 and above means.

was at one of those big number parties that are a regular occurrence at our time of life.

You know, “darling so-andso is turning 60, 70, 80, 85”, and you must come”. This one was for George, dear friend, magnificent father, and loving husband (most of the time) who was turning 75. It was a jolly affair, with different generations rubbing shoulders with each other and sharing memories; some that came instantly to mind, others that didn’t. Then someone turned up the music on a Beatles number and while joining in with the ‘yeah, yeah, yeah’ bits, I mentioned that I had not only been to a Beatles concert but had met the Fab Four and

even jumped into bed with John and Yoko once.* At this news, the faces of those around me spoke volumes. Mingled with the blatant amazement at such celebrity, there was “of course, she’s lying”, followed by “but that would have been centuries ago”, followed by ‘Is she really that old?’ For the next half an hour or so, I was treated like a national monument, gazed at with respect and a certain awe. It was not unpleasant and besides, the Champagne was flowing, the canapés were delicious and the speeches hilarious. Especially the one about how it was all going to be downhill from here, which George insisted was probably going to be on skis. Or maybe

roller-blades, or possibly behind someone excessively brave on the Cresta Run. “Whatever it is,” chortled George, pink with pleasure, “it’s going to be fun.” Later, as I lay in bed fanning off either a passing hot flush or the after-effects of the Champagne, I realised that dear George had not only seen the light but pointed the rest of us in its direction. We are not occasional voices bleating in a youthful wilderness. Suddenly there is an army of us, and we are a force to be recognised. Some data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics to prove my point. People aged 65 and older are expected to comprise 21.6%

of the population by 2040. The 85 and older population is projected to more than double from 6.6 million in 2019 to 14.4 million in 2040 (a 118% increase). To an ambitious marketeer, it must be like a deodorant manufacturer looking at China and realising that one billion people multiplied by two armpits doubles your profits overnight. There is a life out there for those of us who’ve somehow slipped past the 60-something milestone, but it is not that same old one that we have been battling through for the past 30 years or so. This is a life with undreamed-of opportunities; a life that is not bound by other people’s rules, one that doesn’t revolve around everyone else’s needs and wants. Not our children’s. They have their own act to play. Not our parents, theirs was yesterday. Our lives are for us. “Good heavens,” I thought to myself, “looking at it this way, life is like a three-act play, with lucky us, having played our parts in Act I and Act II, are now blessed with Act III, the one where everything comes together, the ‘All’s Well That Ends Well’ act, that finally puts us in charge. “This revelation is so brilliant,” I thought, “someone should write a book about it.” So I did. I’ve called it, ACT III - The Essential Handbook For Those Not Born Yesterday. Cheekily illustrated with cartoons by British top illustrator and cartoonist,

Annie Tempest, it covers all the great patterns of life; love, marriage, divorce, widowhood, children, grandchildren, temptations, despair, health, loss and that elusive thing called memory, all experienced by us. I hope you like it. And I especially hope it makes you laugh and gives you the confidence to get out there on the ACT III stage and do your thing. You never know, you might enjoy it. *I interviewed John and Yoko in the early 1970s when they were promoting their campaign, ‘Make Love Not War’ from a double bed, set up in the studio. Live on TV, I climbed in with them. It was an interviewing scoop.

Reasons For Relishing ACT III ✔ No more mortgages. ✔ No more school fees. ✔ Too old to go to anything boring. ✔ Too old to care about ‘Woke’. ✔ Too old to think about a tattoo. ✔ Too old to neglect chocolate. ✔ Not too old to watch an entire Netflix series in a weekday afternoon. ✔ Not too old to watch black and white movies starring Alan Ladd or Robert Taylor. ✔ Not too old to count the stars until the sky is black and then stay in bed all the next day. ✔ Not too old for the best of all: Grand-children. Sandra Harris Ramini is an unrepentant octogenarian. Formerly Sandra Harris, she was and is a writer, broadcaster and speaker who has shamelessly enjoyed both Act I and Act II of her life, but is now surprised and delighted to find Act III to be the best of all. With one husband, three children and five grandchildren on board, she delights in the so-called downhill race into old age. Whatever happens, she says, it’s going to be fun.

ACT III: THE ESSENTIAL HANDBOOK FOR THOSE NOT BORN YESTERDAY Is readily available on kindle or paperback on-line. It is also in selected bookshops. To get hold of a copy, visit www.facebook.com/sandraramini 43

steps for living well with arthritis With arthritis being the second most common cause of early retirement due to ill-health in Australia, which in turn ends up costing the Australian health system an eye-watering $14 billion per year, there are ways to prevent and manage this painful condition, according to Arthritis Australia.

y taking a proactive role in understanding and treating your condition, you will experience less pain - more so than those who feel there is nothing they can do.

have and then discover the best ways to improve your condition.

Here is our 10 steps checklist to help you live with arthritis.

Many people with arthritis say that learning about their arthritis and what they can do about it gives them back a feeling of control over their lives and their health.

1. Take control by knowing your disease

2. Don’t delay, see your doctor

Spend the time to understand what type of arthritis you

Because arthritis can get worse if left untreated, you

need to see your doctor as early as possible to get a proper diagnosis. This will help you understand your arthritis and develop a plan for managing it. Early diagnosis and treatment can limit the effects of arthritis on your life and help you stay active and independent. 3. Work with your healthcare team and be an important part of it The best way to live well with arthritis is by working closely with your healthcare team. It may include a variety of healthcare specialists, such as doctors, pharmacists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, podiatrists, nurses, psychologists and complementary medicine practitioners. Your doctor may also refer you to a rheumatologist (a specialist in conditions that affect the joints and the structures around them). Remember, you are the most important member of your healthcare team. Make sure you establish and maintain good communication with all the other members. 4. Know about your treatment options There are many treatments to relieve pain and stiffness and slow the development of your arthritis. Work with your healthcare team to find a combination of treatments that best suits your type of arthritis, the joints affected, the amount of pain or other symptoms you experience and your lifestyle.

“

Research has found that regular exercise is one of the most effective treatments for arthritis.

5. Find new ways to stay active

8. Make food choices that count

Research has found that regular exercise is one of the most effective treatments for arthritis. It also helps to improve your overall health.

There are many myths about food and arthritis. However, no diet has been proven by research to cure arthritis and there is very little scientific evidence that specific foods have an effect on arthritis.

Not all forms of exercise are appropriate for every kind of arthritis. Before you start to exercise, it is important to ask your doctor and healthcare team to help you develop a program that will suit your type of arthritis, general health and lifestyle. 6. Learn techniques to help manage your pain There are many techniques you can use to cope with pain so you can go on living your life the way you want to. What works for one person may not work for another, so you may have to try different techniques until you find what works best for you. See Dealing with pain. 7. Acknowledge your feelings and seek support It is natural to feel frustrated, angry, scared and even depressed at the prospect of having arthritis. There are many people who can help you deal with the emotional side of arthritis, including family and friends, counsellors or psychologists. Remember don’t try to go it alone, get some help.

9. Balance your life When you have arthritis you need to find the right balance between work, activity and rest. Learn how to pace yourself to make the most of your energy and about equipment that can make daily tasks easier. 10. Call your local State/ Territory Arthritis Office Learn about the regular information sessions and arthritis self-management courses run by your local Arthritis Office. These will introduce you to a wide ranges of skills and small changes you can make that can lessen the impact of arthritis on your life. The National InfoLine 1800 011 041 is also available between 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Trained professionals will assist in answering your Arthritis related enquiry. More information Visit arthritisaustralia.com.au 45

Hall & Prior Aged Care Homes in WA and NSW celebrated Occupational Therapy Week, an annual opportunity where we acknowledge the profession and promote the many ways that we can help people at all stages of life.

ecently, we celebrated Occupational Therapy week at Hall & Prior which is an annual week where we praise the profession and promote the many ways that we can help people at all stages of life. This year, the theme for OT week was “Unity Through Community”. We have a growing community of professionals, with 15 OTs working across the group. We also have a huge team of over 100 Therapy Assistants as well. We held our Allied Health Study Day at Karingal green where we had multiple external presenters and learnt about the following: Good Spirit Good Life QOL tool, bariatric care and equipment,

Occupational Therapy celebrated

hearing amplifiers, maximising AN-ACC, harmonisation, wellbeing and falls prevention, music therapy and exercise based interventions. We currently have four final year Occupational Therapy students from Curtin

University as well which have been working hard on their last placement before they become certified Occupational Therapists. Thank you all for another amazing OT week!

• • • • • • • •

MEET THE DON

Lisa Spencer Director of Nursing at Montana Aged Care Home, New South Wales. 48

LISA SPENCER, the new Director of Nursing at Montana Aged Care Home in NSW has reached aged care via a diverse route - including reading the news on the radio – but now has found her happy place to work.

L&L: Please tell me how long you’ve been working in aged care, and what drew you to the profession? LS: I came into the aged care sector about 12 years ago from an ICU background. I always thought I wanted to try and make a difference to our elder Australians who I’d always had so much time for. L&L: When did you join Hall & Prior and in what capacity? LS: I’m on day 10 day now and I am the Director of Nursing of Montana Aged Care in Mosman, NSW. L&L: What do you particularly enjoy about your role – and what are the challenges you face? LS: Any role in the aged care sector is challenging, but I enjoy a challenge and I enjoy trying to make a difference in the lives of the wonderful elders we care for. Nevertheless, a highly regulated industry and an ageing population will always create challenges. L&L: On a day-to-day basis, what makes your role special and how do you plan on inspiring staff at your home? LS: It’s a privilege to care for older Australians and share

their journey, whatever that may look like. I like to walk the walk, and lead by example. L&L: If somebody was contemplating a career in aged care, what advice would you give them? LS: Be prepared to work hard but enjoy the rewards it will bring. L&L: What kind of leader would you say you are? How do you think your colleagues would describe you? LS: I like to think I’m firm but fair. Most carers seem to like me, but I do acknowledge what a hard job most staff have, and I always try and support them. I do have high standards and try to ensure they meet these where possible. L&L: What makes for a good day in aged care in your chosen career path – and

how do you keep smiling in the face of everyday life and death situations encountered in aged care? LS: A good day is when you see a lot of smiling and happy residents enjoying the life you help them to create. Death is part of life - I try to make any passing peaceful and as dignified as possible. L&L: What plans do you have for Montana – and how do you relax when you have finished work for the day? LS: I have a few plans already, I just need approval . . . In my spare time, I love to swim and practice some hot yoga as well as hanging out with my kids. L&L: Tell us something we don’t know about you. LS: I used to read the news on the radio - that was fun ! 49

A Q +

with Alunita Simona Marc (Simona), Assistant-in-Nursing, Fairfield Aged Care Home, NSW

When she’s not at work, Simona Marc is most likely tucking into a meal with her son and husband and when she’s caring for her residents at Fairfield Aged Care Home, it’s all about their wellbeing for this hard-working AIN.

L&L: What made you want to become an aged care worker and how long have you been working for Hall & Prior? SM: I became a care worker because I wanted to look after our older generation. I started working at Fairfield Aged Care Home in 2011 and have never looked back! I enjoy working with the residents and staff here. L&L: What does an average day look like for you? SM: An average day for me is to start work at 6.30 am when I start my showers, help with feeding and toileting the residents, and just be present all day until I finish my shift. L&L: Tell us about one part of your job that makes you feel really rewarded and connected to those you work with?

SM: At Fairfield, we are a team and we always have been. We try to do our best with all our residents to make sure their day is a good one. I feel rewarded working with the staff I work with because if someone is having a bad day, we all help out and are there for that person. L&L: What is the best piece of advice you ever got about working from others and from who? SM: The best piece of advice I received was from a former Director of Nursing who told me to never change my attitude and to keep caring for the elderly as my chosen career. He could see how passionate I was – and still am - about my residents. L&L: What is the best thing about working at an aged care home?

The residents and staff all have such a close bond, I think it is very beautiful to see.

SM: The best thing about our home is the family environment we have created here. The residents and staff all have such a close bond I think it is very beautiful to see. L&L: What have you learned about yourself while you’ve worked for Hall & Prior? SM: I have learned to be more patient, to expect and embrace changes and not to worry about them as they are normally a good thing. As an aged care facility, we have to change things all the time to give the best care to our residents. L&L: How would others describe you? SM: I think they would say that I am a hard worker, a compassionate person, and a great team player. L&L: What qualities are required to make a great aged care employee in your opinion? SM: I think it takes a special person to work in aged care they have to love what they are doing and always remember they are caring for our elderly. I would say too that they have to have a lot of compassion and a good heart.

Fast Facts If I wasn’t an aged care support worker I would . . . like to be a pathologist. My favourite movie is . . . Titanic My favourite song . . . Any song from Celine Dion When I’m not at work, you’ll often find me . . . With my son and husband going out to our favourite restaurants. 51

Local resident Malcolm Fellows is a big fan of the pool and adjacent facilities at Karingal Green. In September of this year, he was diagnosed with sciatica by his GP, who prescribed Malcolm with some strong pain tablets and antiinflammatories.

Road to recovery at Karingal Green The award-winning aged care community’s Wellness Centre has been a big hit with residents and locals alike, especially for postoperative patients like Malcolm Fellows.

community offers generously appointed, modern accommodation designed to suit the specific needs of residents; beautiful living and garden spaces; a café and cinema; an on-site allied and primary health clinic; and a dedicated research, training and education centre.

ince its opening in 2020, Karingal Green has become a valuable part of High Wycombe in WA’s community.

“This unique, integrated space provides an unprecedented aged care concept,” said Executive Director of Nursing, Natasha Bamber.

The winner of multiple national awards for its innovative design and care offerings, the state-of-theart, 160-bed aged care home catering to all levels of care needs. It also provides specialist aged care and wellbeing services, including dementia and Parkinson’s specific care, on a permanent, day program and respite basis. It now also offers home and community care services.

Along with all of the above, the beautiful Wellness Centre with its luxurious heated hydrotherapy pool and fully equipped gymnasium has been a drawcard for locals keen to experience the Karingal Green approach to whole-body care, whatever their age.

The thoughtfully designed 52

In addition to the facilities there are a range of treatments also on offer including physiotherapy, remedial massage, pilates and a GLAD Program.

“I was advised to go to the Wellness Centre at Karingal Green in High Wycombe as they had a heated pool, as it may help me with the pain that I was in at the time,” said Malcolm. “I arranged for an assessment, and I was advised by the assessor to have a couple of massage sessions. Well, those sessions helped me so much I was so grateful and anyone who has suffered with sciatica would know what I mean. After a CT scan and a consultation with a specialist Malcolm was told he would require a hip replacement. “I told my doctor that I was attending Karingal Green Wellness Centre and he said to me that it was the best pre-op thing I could do as it will quite possibly give me a quicker recovery time postoperation. “Well, I have now been attending Karingal Green Wellness Centre for about nine weeks and the help I have received during this time has been wonderful,” said Malcolm. “All the staff are so kind, they do not push you out of your comfort zone. I would recommend Karingal Green Wellness Centre to anyone.

Shared Experiences Make New Connections The Georges Estate team are always working to inspire new connections with the wonderful residents who live in our home.

eorges Estate in Penhurst, NSW, offers a vibrant residential aged care option for those who still like to make the most of life. Taking a bus trip out into the community together has helped build many a new friendship within the home through its ‘Community Companion Visits’. Lifestyle Officer, Jason has been very busy researching new adventure to take resident on with his daily community visits. “It is wonderful to see the resident turnout for the very popular ‘Beach Breakfast’ outings that go every

Wednesday,” says Jason. “Simply sitting by the water and enjoying breakfast together has sparked many new conversations which have bloomed into friendship, fun and wonderful new memories for our residents.” The team have recently added the ‘Devonshire Tea’ outings to the Tea House in Oatley which has been a very popular addition and is starting to give our ‘Beach Breakfast’ a run for the number one place to visit.

“Through our program, we have helped make many new connections that have bloomed into true friendships within the walls of Georges Estate.” Keep an eye out in our home newsletter about our new adventures that are coming up including trips to ‘Shop Front Theatre’ shows and daycare fun in the St Georges suburb of Lagarno (where the residents are able to mingle with the younger generation).

“Another highlight has been the lunch trips to ‘Taren Point Golf Club’ to enjoy this wonderful weather and sit amongst the golfers,” says Jason. Family are also welcome on the outings and the team who accompany residents always ensure that attendees are paired up with a buddy to ensure that there is somebody who will enjoy the experience with. 53

55 and over have vision loss. Age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy top the list of conditions impacting vision in older age. Eye health and mental health have a close relationship. A decline in one can negatively impact the other, but help is available.

Vision loss and mental health

– adapting to change Do you know the impact of vision loss on mental health? Vision loss, whether it happens suddenly or slowly over time, can be confronting and difficult to navigate.

esearch by the ophthalmology medical journal JAMA shows that people with vision impairment are three times more likely to suffer from mental health issues and depression. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare says nearly 10% of people aged

Health therapists, like social workers, can support you and offer guidance. A close peer network will also be beneficial. Marija Clark, Social Worker at VisAbility, a leading NDIS provider based in Victoria Park, says it can be challenging to accept vision loss. Many people feel it impacts their independence because they rely on others to do tasks they once did themselves. “There is a natural grief process that comes with any loss. Failing eyesight may make you feel more isolated, withdrawn and less inclined to socialise with others, but connections like this can be hugely beneficial,” she explains. Her colleague, VisAbility Social Worker Purvi Patel says stress is also linked to deteriorating vision. “People experiencing chronic stress, who smoke, don’t exercise, have enough

sleep and neglect a healthy nutritious diet may have an increased risk of eye disease. They are also more prone to conditions like diabetes and heart disease and are less likely to get support from a health professional.” If your vision is worsening, our social workers advise the following: Seek professional help • Speak to a psychologist, mental health professional, or social worker who can give you emotional support and assist with coping strategies. • A social worker can support you to access benefits for concession cards and government benefits. • Join a support group for people with vision loss. Sharing experiences can be beneficial. • Service providers, such as VisAbility, all offer group programs for people with vision loss to help you manage household tasks, personal care and cooking.

Remain positive in outlook • Focus on your abilities rather than limitations. Adopt a resilient mindset. • Celebrate your achievements no matter how small. • Boost your self-esteem and sense of accomplishment by enjoying a hobby. you can still do even with limited vision. Discover assistive technology • Learn how assistive technology can make life easier.

• Assistive technology includes screen readers, magnifiers and talkback. devices. They help you stay connected and remain independent. Adjusting to a condition that impacts your vision can be difficult, but with support you can face the future with optimism and confidence. If you are experiencing vision loss, VisAbility can help. For more information, visit visability.com.au/oak .

Failing eyesight may make you feel more isolated, withdrawn and less inclined to socialise with others

Work through accepting your condition • Understand the grief and loss framework. • Acknowledge that it’s normal to have emotional reactions to vision loss. Be kind to yourself. Maintain friendships and connections • Stay socially connected with family and friends. • If you can’t be with them in person, call or text. • Look for peer or support groups for people with vision loss. 55

PUZZLES CROSSWORD DOWN

Entranced (10) Agonising (7) Long fish (3) Personify (6) Coding (11) Set up (7) Merry (3) Holiday destination (6) Variety of fruit (11) Championing (10) Not mature (6) Before (7) Tidal wave (7) Wilt (6) Self (3) Harass; berate (3)

ACROSS

No. 025

1 Lead 5 US state 6 On a single occasion 7 Impoverished

DOWN

1 Henhouse 2 'This isn’t good' (2,2) 3 Puerto – 4 Person who gets stuff done

QUICK QUIZ 1

Does the leopard seal live in the Arctic or the Antarctic?

Shoko Asahara formed which Japanese religious movement, which was later found responsible for the Tokyo subway attack of 1995?

How many people are needed to perform the exercise of shadowboxing?

Bordered by the Rhine valley, which country is the Black Forest found in?

What was Tim Winton’s eighth novel, published in 2008?

WORDSTEP Complete the list by changing one letter at a time to create a new word at each step. There may be more than one possible answer.

TRAIN

_____ _____ _____ _____ BLEND

5 9

4 1

8 6 2 1 7 8 6 2 1 7 8 5 2 8 2 1 4 1 9 3 3 2 SOLUTIONS

9-LETTER WORD

4x4

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

DEC, 2023

CROSSWORD

No. 025

SUDOKU

Today’s Aim: 12 words: Good 18 words: Very good 25+ words: Excellent

SUDOKU

adapt, ADAPTABLE, adept, aped, baldpate, leap, leapt, palate, pale, palea, paled, pate, peal, peat, pedal, pelt, petal, plat, plate, plated, plea, plead, pleb, pled, pleat, tapa, tape, taped, tepal

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

025

H A P P E N E D S P R I N G A E M R N A Y L A B O R I O U S L Y P H I N O E G T N O F F P E D E S T R I A N T U O Y O A L A C R U M B L E D I S L A M E U T M V S I N T R O E M E R G I N G A R R W N S C D O R G A N I S I N G U S A L N P T N T A L I E L I Z A B E T H A N E T E A M N G D R A G G I N G O B R I E N

9-LETTER WORD

2 7 8 4 1 6 3 5 9 4 5 1 7 9 3 8 2 6 6 9 3 2 5 8 1 7 4 7 1 4 3 8 5 6 9 2 9 2 6 1 4 7 5 8 3 8 3 5 6 2 9 4 1 7 3 8 2 9 6 1 7 4 5 1 6 9 5 7 4 2 3 8 5 4 7 8 3 2 9 6 1

1 2 3 4 6 7 8 11 13 14 17 19 21 22 25 26

WORDSTEP TRAIN, BRAIN, BRAID, BRAND, BLAND, BLEND

Occurred (8) Season (6) Greek letter (3) With excessive effort (11) Away (3) Walker (10) Mohammedanism (5) Fell apart (8) Becoming prominent (8) Introduction (coll) (5) Sorting (10) Neighbour of Canada (1,1,1) English era, 1558-1603 (11) 'The Greatest' boxer (3) Common Irish surname (1’5) Pulling (8)

4X4 ACROSS: 1. Cord, 5. Ohio, 6. Once, 7. Poor. DOWN: 1. Coop, 2. Ohno, 3. Rico, 4. Doer.

ACROSS

1 5 9 10 12 13 15 16 18 20 23 24 25 27 28 29

No. 025

1. Antarctic 2. Aum Shinrikyo 3. One 4. Germany 5. Breath

QUICK QUIZ ANSWERS

TEABREAK

WORDFIND

CODEWORD

No. 026

No. 025

Can you find all of the words listed below? The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

BARRACK

DOCKERS

MAGPIES

BLUES

EAGLES

OVAL

BOMBERS

GOAL

POWER

BOUNCE

HANDBALLS

PREMIERSHIP

BROWNLOW

KANGAROOS

TACKLE

BULLDOGS

LIONS

UMPIRE

Each number corresponds to a letter. Can you crack the code? 1

CROSS MATH

EIGHT AROUND HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW...

Insert each number from 1 to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations. Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.

Can you work out what the missing letter is that spells an 8-letter word? It could read either clockwise or anti-clockwise.

–

× ×

= 60

–

= 24

= 7

= 32

= 12

= 7

No. 025

5x5

No. 025

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

A E

R O

I S

S L E

ROSE BYRNE 1. In which legal drama was Rose Byrne’s breakout role, starring as young lawyer Ellen Parsons? A. Ally McBeal B. Boston Legal C. Chicago Justice D. Damages 2. In which Star Wars film did she play a handmaiden? A. Episode I – The Phantom Menace B. Episode II – Attack of the Clones C. Episode III – Revenge of the Sith D. Episode IV – A New Hope 3. Which famous feminist did she recently portray in historical miniseries Mrs. America? A. Gloria Steinem B. Germaine Greer C. Clementine Ford D. Simone de Beauvoir

5. Which actor is the father of her two sons, Rocco and Rafa? A. Brendan Cowell B. Billy Crystal C. Bradley Cooper D. Bobby Cannavale

ANSWERS: 1D, 2B, 3A, 4C, 5D

4. What is the name of her '80s-set comedy series on Apple TV+? A. Animal B. Mineral C. Physical D. Spiritual

KW V A B M L QN P T D H 14

R C S Z X J F OG U Y I E 1

CODEWORD WORDFIND Secret message: Our game

EIGHT AROUND Missing Letter = I TWILIGHT T

R A G S E B R A F O U L

C Z A

8 + 6 – 7 = 7 ÷ × + 3 × 5 × 4 = 60 × + + 9 – 2 ÷ 1 = 7 = = = 24 32 12

5X5

CROSS MATH

L A

D E

HOLIDAY PUZZLES AUSSIE CROSSWORD

No. 051

ACROSS

5 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 18

20 22 24 25 27

28 29

31 33

36 A Kinder Surprise is shaped like 'Saltwater one (3) People' (8) 38 Australian rapper, Murray River The Kid – (5) settlement (7) 39 Indigenous Body of water custodian (5) between Australia and New Zealand, 40 Troy actor, – Bana (4) Tasman – (3) 42 Most populated Folk pop group, continent (4) The – (7) 43 Narrow valley (4) Sci–fi film, 44 Olympic – One: A Star swimmer, Wars Story (5) Leah – (5) – Dividing 45 Australian Range (5) aviation pionner, Holding the Man – Kingsford actor, – Corr (4) Smith (7) Greens senator, 48 Chocolate brand, – Waters (7) Old – (4) Fourth letter 49 NFP organisation, of the greek Broken – (5) alphabet (5) 51 Cricket legend, Immoral acts (4) – Warne (5) Reality show 52 Australian presented by swimmer, Hamish Blake, – Titmus (7) – Masters (4) Pants (informal) (4) 53 Day of bushfires, – Wednesday (3) Conscious acts (5) 54 Marriage Sauce with ceremony (7) chips (5) 55 Host of Can be bull, The Bachelor garden or fire (3) Australia, Lead singer Osher – (8) of Amyl and the Sniffers, DOWN – Taylor (3) 1 Extended 2022 nature break, – docmentary (8) weekend (4) Braveheart actor 2 Activists, who attended Extinction – (9) NIDA in Sydney, Advance – – (9,4) 3 – Gibson (3) Mr Bean actor, 4 Spec-fic mag (8) – Rowan (8) End of year 5 Jesus' parents, celebration – – Joseph (4,3) (abbr) (3)

ACROSS

DOWN

1 Couple (3) 2 Raga4 Yearly muffin (4) summit 3 Leer (4) (1,1,1) 5 Nothing (3) 6 Felt cap (3) 58

6 7 8 9 15 17 19 21

There may be more than one possible answer.

TV personality, – Somers (5) 'Gotcha' (coll) (5) Comedy actress, – Szubanski (5) Protective outer layer of marine mollusc (8) Water removal system (8) Sunrise weather presenter, – Mac (3) Iconic ice cream, Golden – (7) The red centre, Alice – (7)

Place each of the tiles of letters into the blank jigsaw to create four six-letter words going across and down.

No. 092

EDGEWORD

TINY CROSS

22 23 26 30 32 34 35 37

No. 254

ES SE US DL

Victoria's 48th premier (6,7) QLD, the – State (8) Sports presenter, – Williams (3) Former SBS news presenter, – Lin Chin (3) Cricket legend (3,5) Foundation of Indigenous culture (9) Attraction in Coffs Harbour, The – Banana (3) Cockatoo (4–4)

41 45 46 47 50

Noongar writer, – – Coleman (6,1) Win through deception (5) Author of The Husband's Secret, – Moriarty (5) Sydney author of The Man Who Loved Children, Christina – (5) BBQ sausage (coll) (4)

DROP DOWN

No. 254

M A S O N R Y

MU AM NS BE Starting with the seven-letter word, drop a letter and form a six-letter word. Continue in this manner until you reach the single letter at the bottom. You can rearrange the letters in each step, if necessary. There may be more than one possible answer.

6 ( 1 6 2 5 <

TINY CROSS

No. 002 Letters: AFT

SAMPLE SOL TEXT Words: ADMIN MINT MINUTE NOMINAL

ACROSS: 1. Bras, 5. Rave, 6. Area, 7. Term. DOWN: 1. Brat, 2. Rare, 3. Aver, 4. Seam.

WORD FILL / $ 5 5 $ . , $ 0 , / ' 8 5 $ 0 2 ( 8 7 $ $ 2 6 ( $ 1 % 6 ( ( . ( 5 6 5 2 * 8 ( * * 5 ( $ 7 , < < ( $ ' / 5 < $ 1 $ / $ 5 , 6 6 $ ' ( / 7 $ 6 , 1 6 + 5 , / ( * 2 ' $ . 6 ' ( ( ' 6 $ , 2 / , $ 1 7 0 3 $ / 8 , 1 $ 0 < 2 ) 5 $ 1 . / , 1 1 ) 7 0 ( / , , 6 $ 8 5 ( $ / , 6 ( 1 < ( ' + * 2 , 0 % ( * * / $ 5 2 , ( / ' ( 5 ( 5 , & $ 6 , $ ( 1 0 * / ( 1 1 ( $ / ( & + $ 5 / ( 6 $ * 2 / ' 0 + 5 , 7 , * 5 , 7 ( 6 ( 6 + $ 1 ( $ 5 , $ 5 1 ( , 1 $ 6 + 1 $ ( 1 : 0 $ 7 : ( ' ' , 1 * * 8 1 6 % ( 5 *

AUSSIE CROSSWORD

No. 001 Letters: MIN TRIPLE DROP DOWN MASONRY MANORS MASON MANS MAN MA A EDGEWORD BEDLAM BEMUSE AMUSES SENSES

D __ __ __ C R __ __ __ C __ __ __ A N G R __ __ __

& $ 5 7 6 2 & 7 $ / 6 , ( 9 ( $ / 2 1 ( ) 8 5 5 < & 2 ' ( ' ) 5 ( ( 5 5 8 , 1 * 5 2 8 7 ( 0 ( ( 7 6 ( : ( & 8 ( * 8 1 % 5 $ 7 6 + ( $ 7 ( ' 2 ' ' 6 & $ % , / / , 1 1 2 % 2 ( 6 1 ( ( ' 6 ' $ % 6 7 5 , 1 . ( 7 6 ' , 3 6 7 2 7 6 ( 1 6 2 5 < + $ / 7 ( 5 6 ' ( $ ' 6 + 5 $ 3 1 ( / ( 9 ( 5 2 ' 6 & 5 8 ' ( * ( ( 6 ( $ & 7 ( 5 5 8 6 ( & , 5 & / ( 6 $ 9 ( 5 ' 2 * 6 $ ' 2 , ' 6 : $ 6 1 7 ' 2 7 : + ( 1 6 2 = 2 1 ( 5 ( 8 6 ( $ 2 5 7 $ 6 $ 8 1 $ 3 $ * $ 1 0 ( 6 6 < 6 & 5 $ 0 6 / ( 3 7

CALCUDOKU

No. 002

Words: DAFT CRAFT CAFTAN GRAFT

A D __ __ __ __ __ __ T __ __ __ U T E N O __ __ __ A L

No. 001

What three-letter sequence completes all of these words?

Every row and column must contain the numbers 1 to 6 once each, with each outlined section equal to the number in the top left of the area when the noted mathematical operation is used. For subtraction and division, start with the largest number in the section.

TRIPLE

DEC, 2023

No. 062

SOLUTIONS 7 :2 $ * 0 1 , / ) ( =

CALCUDOKU

8 LETTERS CURTAINS SERVANTS SHRAPNEL TRINKETS

6 LETTERS CIRCLE CLIENT HEATED SCREEN

7 LETTERS DRAWERS ERECTED HALTERS SENSORY TRESTLE WHISPER

4 LETTERS DABS DEAD DIPS DISH DOGS DUES

5 LETTERS ALONE ALOUD AORTA ASKED ATONE BORES BRATS BRAVO CARGO CARPS CARTS CODED CRUDE EDGED EDICT ESSAY FREER FURRY GEESE GONNA IDEAL MEETS MESSY

NEEDS OBOES OCTAL ODOUR OFFER OILED OTHER OZONE PAGAN REUSE ROUGE ROUND ROUTE RUING SAUNA SAVER SCENT SCRAM SIEVE SLEPT SNAGS SPEED STEAM STYLE VENUE WASN’T WHENS

LYRE ODDS RODS SEEM SLED SWAM TOSS TSAR

3 LETTERS ACT ADO AND ARE CAB CUE DOT EBB ERR EVE EWE GUN HOE IDS ILL INN IOU SAC SAP TNT TOT URN USE ZAC

No. 153

WORD FILL

Favourite TH I NGS

Tessey Philladitis

Tessey Philladitis is Administration Assistant at Hall & Prior’s NSW State Office ... I LOVE GREECE

Both my parents were from an island in Greece called Lemnos. Lemnos has a huge connection to Australia. Our Aussie Nurses were based in Lemnos assisting the wounded in the First World War from 1915 to 1916. Lemnos was recently recognised for its special place in history and a statue has been erected in Kogarah.

Lemnos

I LOVE PEOPLE I am very much a people person. I found this out in my early school years, based on my report cards. They always started the same way . . . “If Tess would talk less and concentrate more, she would achieve better results.” I have worked for many different organisations including in the banking sector, for a legal firm, a wholesale gift company, a bowling club, a florist’s shop and home care. The common denominator is always the same – to be around people and always learning something new.

I LOVE MY DOG I have an Apple Head Chihuahua - his name is Simmi. He is a bit on the voluptuous side but I think he is just beautiful. He loves his Schmackos although I was told by the vet to give him carrots instead. On the positive side, he loves his carrots and has lost 1/2 kilos!

Simmi

I LOVE TO TRAVEL I promised myself once both my children had finished their HSC I would take a trip away to Europe. This year I went on an adventure of a lifetime. I went to Italy for a week, then off to Greece for five weeks finishing off my trip with a week in Bangkok. I went to most of the historic sites in the countries that I visited. While visiting a monastery in Simi I was overcome with emotion and was bought to tears. The people of Bangkok were absolutely beautiful, they could not do enough for you. Their priority was to ensure you as a guest were always happy and relaxed. building towards tangible fitness goals.

I LOVE MY FAMILY Family is a very important part of my life. We lost my Mum in 2004 - she was larger than life. When she walked into a room, everybody knew she was there. Everybody in the family would say that I am exactly like my mum. I have two adult children who keep me active. We are lucky enough to be living with my 90-year old dad who still keeps me in line. He forgets that I have grown up now.

I LOVE MY FREE TIME When I have some time to myself, I like to do some gardening, listen to music and cooking – mostly baking desserts.

I LOVE EXPANDING MY HORIZONS I love learning about other cultural events. I was lucky enough to participate in Diwali festival of the lights. The girls assisted me in putting on their traditional dress.

OUR WA HOMES

EMERALD LIFE WEST LEEDERVILLE

MERTOME BAYSWATER LEIGHTON WEST PERTH

ST LUKES & HAMERSLEY SUBIACO

KARINGAL GREEN HIGH WYCOMBE

BELMONT RIVERVALE WINDSOR PARK CARLISLE KENSINGTON PARK KENSINGTON CONCORDE SOUTH PERTH

MOSMAN PARK & FRESHWATER BAY MOSMAN PARK

McDOUGALL PARK COMO

PERTH ROCKINGHAM ROCKINGHAM

TUOHY MIDLAND

AGMAROY WILSON

BRAEMAR HOUSE EAST FREMANTLE

BRAEMAR COOINDA & BRAEMAR VILLAGE WILLAGEE

VILLA DALMACIA SPEARWOOD HOCART LODGE HARVEY TUIA LODGE DONNYBROOK

CLARENCE ESTATE ALBANY

FOR MORE INFORMATION Contact the WA Hall & Prior Aged Care Home of your choice AGMAROY BELMONT BRAEMAR COOINDA BRAEMAR HOUSE BRAEMAR VILLAGE CLARENCE ESTATE CONCORDE EMERALD LIFE FRESHWATER BAY HAMERSLEY HOCART LODGE KARINGAL GREEN KENSINGTON PARK LEIGHTON MCDOUGALL PARK MERTOME MOSMAN PARK ROCKINGHAM ST LUKES TUIA LODGE TUOHY VILLA DALMACIA WINDSOR PARK

info@hallprior.com.au

115 Leach Highway, Wilson 5 Kemp Place, Rivervale 31 Moorhouse Street, Willagee 10 Windsor Road, East Fremantle 32/34 Charsley Street, Willagee 55 Hardie Road, Albany 25 Anstey Street, South Perth 78 Kimberley Street, West Leederville 67 Palmerston Street, Mosman Park 441 Rokeby Road, Subiaco 3 Knowles Street, Harvey 53 Hawkevale Road, High Wycombe 62 Gwenyfred Road, Kensington 40 Florence Street, West Perth 18 Ley Street, Como 30 Winifred Road, Bayswater 57 Palmerston Street, Mosman Park 14 Langley Street, Rockingham 429 Rokeby Road, Subiaco 30 Allnutt Street, Donnybrook 22 Morrison Road, Midland 27 Gorham Way, Spearwood 110 Star Street, Carlisle

08 9458 1524 08 9277 2735 08 6279 3628 08 9339 9431 08 9338 8801 08 9841 5999 08 9367 7559 08 9381 1428 08 9384 5280 08 9381 6542 08 9729 0499 08 6372 0400 08 9367 4870 08 9328 9355 08 9313 1700 08 6462 7200 08 9384 1769 08 9527 1757 08 9381 8061 08 9732 3500 08 9274 1756 08 9418 5222 08 9472 9488 hallprior.com.au

OUR NSW HOMES

GRAFTON SOUTH GRAFTON

NEW SOUTH WALES CAROLINE CHISHOLM LANE COVE MONTANA MOSMAN GLENWOOD GREENWICH

SIRIUS COVE MOSMAN

VAUCLUSE VAUCLUSE FAIRFIELD FAIRFIELD

CLOVER LEA BURWOOD HEIGHTS

AUBREY DOWNER POINT CLARE

SYDNEY GEORGES ESTATE PENSHURST

SHANGRI-LA HURSTVILLE

MENAVILLE ROCKDALE BEXLEY BEXLEY

FOR MORE INFORMATION Contact the NSW Hall & Prior aged care home of your choice AUBREY DOWNER BEXLEY CAROLINE CHISHOLM CLOVER LEA FAIRFIELD GEORGES ESTATE GLENWOOD GRAFTON MENAVILLE MONTANA SHANGRI-LA SIRIUS COVE VAUCLUSE

infoNSW@hallprior.com.au

23 Sunnyside Avenue, Point Clare 82-84 Connemarra Street, Bexley 274 Burns Bay Road, Lane Cove 14 Claremont Road, Burwood Heights 125 The Crescent, Fairfield 1 Centre Street, Penshurst 34 Greenwich Road, Greenwich 12 Bent Street, South Grafton 121 Frederick Street, Rockdale 36-38 Harbour Street, Mosman 107 Carrington Avenue, Hurstville 17 Clanalpine Street, Mosman 13 Young Street, Vaucluse

02 4324 2068 02 9587 7610 02 9428 2466 02 9747 1911 02 9728 1144 02 9069 7300 02 9436 1707 02 6642 3255 02 9567 3641 02 8969 2600 02 9580 4333 02 9960 7555 02 9337 3235

hallprior.com.au

Karingal Green Home Care can provide the professional assistance needed to continue living safely and independently in your own home.

Home care to suit you.

Flexible programs and services tailored to your individual needs. You may like to receive help around the home, assistance with meals, join social outings, transport to appointments, or assistance with personal care and clinical services.

53 Hawkevale Road, High Wycombe WA 6057 karingalgreenhomecare.com.au | 1300 604 506