Colourful Concorde goes tropical for the day
The last couple of months have seen plenty of activity in our aged care homes in WA and NSW.
ANZAC Day was marked in a variety of moving ways, with residents, family members, staff and visiting VIPs all playing a part in the traditional service.
International Nurses Day and Mother’s Day happened to fall on the same Sunday in May this year, giving our homes the opportunity to celebrate this important duo of dates in style. Many of our nurses also happen to be mothers so it was a wonderful opportunity to pause and reflect on the enormous contribution this cohort of the community gives to aged care.
Some staff in WA were given fascinating insight into the future and the role artificial intelligence (AI) may play in the efficient delivery of care to our elders - read all about what the future may hold.
In addition to all of the above, there was the usual collection of significant birthdays, jolly day trips and fun activities to enjoy - just like the Hawaiian celebration on the cover!
Happy reading!
Life & Love Issue 44 | Winter 2024
Makuru (WA)
Wiritjiribin - Tugarah
Gunya’marri (NSW)
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
COVER IMAGE
Residents of Concorde Aged Care Home in WA enjoying a Hawaiian party.
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.
©2024 Life & Love is published by Hall & Prior Health & Aged Care Group. Visit hallprior.com.au facebook.com/ HallandPriorAgedCare
Lest we forget: Graeme Prior, CEO of the Hall & Prior Aged Care Group attended a moving ANZAC Day service at Mertome Retirement Village in Perth.
A WORD FROM THE
There have been several important events over the past few months which our homes have marked.
Many respectful and moving ANZAC Day ceremonies were held, attended by residents, their friends and families as well as local dignitaries, all of whom proudly recognise the significant role the ANZACs played during wars far from home.
The services provided a timely reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans in our care during wars around the world.
It was my honour to attend a commemoration service at Mertome Retirement Village and Aged Care Home, and as ever, I was proud to represent Hall & Prior and lay a wreath on behalf of the Group.
On May 12, there was a dual celebration –International Nurses Day and Mother’s Day. It gave many of us the opportunity to thank those who care for us in a nursing capacity and those who care for us as mothers. In some cases, nurses are mothers and to celebrate this, we put together a wonderful video featuring some of our nurses in NSW who also happen to be mothers.
I hope you will enjoy reading about this important day on the calendar and seeing the photographs of so many nurses and mothers
in our WA and NSW homes.
I was also pleased to note the recent budget announcement which has made more funding available for home care packages. Home care is a vital aspect to enable our elders to age well in their own homes, and I was encouraged to see further investment in this area at a federal level.
Held across the country from July 7 to 14 July, NAIDOC Week celebrates and recognises the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
This year’s theme is Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud, a theme which honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations.
I am looking forward to NAIDOC events in our aged care homes in July, as residents and staff share this year’s theme and celebrate the rich and diverse culture of Indigenous people in WA and NSW.
GRAEME PRIOR Chief Executive Officer
AI is so much more than robots delivering food to residents, as the staff of Hall & Prior discovered during a fascinating presentation recently by AptoNow.
By GABI MILLS
At the heart of Australia’s aged care industry lies a landscape ripe for innovation. With challenges ranging from workforce shortages to rising costs and the complexities of catering to individual needs, the sector is undergoing a profound transformation.
However, amidst these challenges emerges a perhaps unexpectedly unhuman beacon of hope: Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI is on the cusp of revolutionising aged care, offering solutions to age-old problems and paving the way for a brighter future in elderly support.
At a recent meeting of Hall & Prior’s staff, Nick Psanoudakis, Principal and Consulting Lead of AptoNow, presented an informative morning of insight into how AI could assist the aged care group in its delivery of care – and more – thanks to new developments just over the horizon. Dispelling myths and fears that robots would do away with roles previously
carried out by humans, Nick and his team engaged staff to join in the discussion and come up with real-world ways AI could assist the variety of roles required to make an aged care home run more smoothly.
Some of the areas AI could work alongside staff in the delivery of care and achieve efficiencies were quite eye-opening.
Here’s a glimpse of how AI is tackling these challenges, head-on-, according to AptoNow.
The aged care industry faces myriad of challenges, each demanding unique solutions. From workforce shortages to the complexities of personalising care plans, AI technologies are stepping up to the plate. As discussed
during the session, possible solutions include:
• Workforce Shortages: AI-Powered Scheduling Tools can optimise shift schedules, ensuring balanced workloads and reducing caregiver burnout.
• High Operational Costs: Predictive Analytics Models forecast supply needs, minimise=sing waste and unnecessary spending.
• Personalised Care Needs: AI Care Plan Generators analyse resident data to create individualised care plans, ensuring tailored diets and therapies.
• Social Isolation: Large Language Model (LLM) Chatbot Companions provide friendly conversation and entertainment, improving
residents’ mental health and reducing depression.
• Complex Documentation: AI Documentation Assistants free up staff time by drafting initial notes from caregiver summaries.
• Remote Monitoring: Wearable Devices coupled with Predictive Analytics
The future is now: Left, Nick Psanoudakis from AptoNow, led a fascinating exploration of AI and how it may assist aged care organisations like Hall & Prior. Above, Graeme Prior and other members of staff were encouraged to discuss ways AI could assist their daily tasks.
detect health abnormalities, preventing unnecessary hospital admissions.
• Medication Management: AI Medication Safety Tools flag potential errors, ensuring adherence and preventing adverse reactions.
• Documentation Streamlining: LLM Note Generators create progress notes, reducing administrative workload.
• Knowledge Retrieval: LLM Chatbot Assistants answer questions, helping new staff quickly learn best practices.
• Resident Monitoring: Computer Vision Falls Detection systems alert staff quickly, preventing injuries or accidents.
Improving Efficiency and Effectiveness
Nick and his team were at pains to emphasise that AI would never replace the essential ‘humanness’ of aged care delivery. Instead, AI will be able to free up carers and nurses from timesapping procedures and in fact increase the time they would then have to spend with residents.
“AI technologies like predictive analytics and large
language models (LLMs) have the potential to significantly improve care delivery efficiency and effectiveness,” said Nick.
“By providing early health warnings, streamlining administrative processes, and offering personalised care plans there is great opportunity for aged care providers to leverage AI to provide better, personalised services to patients.
“Ultimately this can enable staff to focus more on direct care while ensuring residents receive accurate, compassionate support.”
Ethical Considerations and Risk Mitigation
Implementing AI in aged care comes with ethical considerations such as bias, privacy, and over-reliance on AI outputs.
“To mitigate these risks, rigorous measures including fairness audits, data security protocols, clear consent
mechanisms, and human oversight are essential,” said Nick.
By navigating these ethical waters with care, AI can be wielded as a force for good in elderly care settings.
The Future of AI in Aged Care
Looking ahead, cutting edge organisations like AptoNow believe the future of AI in aged care holds boundless potential. Businesses like Hall & Prior that are hoping to ride the wave of innovation and efficient delivery of aged care are investing now in the future.
“Advancements in machine learning and large language models will further refine personalised care plans, anticipating individual needs with unprecedented accuracy,” said Nick.
Moreover, as AI continues to evolve, it will increasingly augment the capabilities of caregivers, enhancing the quality of life for elderly
Despite the dystopian visions of film makers where robots will take over the world, crushing humans in their wake, the reality will be more mundane, with robots and AI-driven programs assisting humans to be better and work more efficiently.
“We are looking forward to embracing the era of AIdriven innovation in aged care,” said Graeme Prior, CEO of Hall & Prior Aged Care Group.
“It’s important to remember technology is only a tool –among many – at our disposal to improve the quality of life of our residents. It is the compassion and dedication of caregivers that truly define the quality of care provided to our elderly population.
“However, with AI as a trusted ally, we can set off on a journey towards a future where every senior receives the care and respect, they deserve.”
ANZAC Day is one of the most important dates on the calendar for Hall & Prior Aged Care Homes to mark and this year, one of our residents – Daniel Long at Georges Estate in Penshurst, NSW– shared his memories in a special video created for the day.
For Daniel Long, 104, war is something to be avoided at all costs.
“I would like the younger generation to really value peace,” said Mr Long during an interview with a local newspaper in the run-up to ANZAC Day.
“There should never be world wars again. War is the worst thing and I would like the younger generation to make peace their priority,” he said.
His message comes from ‘life lived’ knowledge serving in the occupation forces in Germany during and immediately after World War II.
Mr Long ( pictured opposite and above) was born in January 1920 in Buckinghamshire in Great Britain and joined the British army reserves before joining up full-time when the war started.
He became a machine gunner and serving in France,
Belgium, The Netherlands and Germany.
“I was very lucky to survive being a machine gunner,” Mr Long said.
“This meant we were targets for the Germans and a lot of our men didn’t last that long.”
Mr Long was in the D-Day landing in France in 1944.
“We had a rough time getting ashore because the Germans
had fighter bomber planes which they used to try to sink our ships and prevent us from landing,” he said. “We lost quite a lot of men but we got there. We got onto trucks and battled our way through France, Belgium, Holland and into Germany.
I was blown by mortar fire into a shell crater that was quite deep. I was unconscious, I don’t know for how long, and I was mistaken for dead.
“On another occasion my platoon was attacked at first light by a German suicide squad that were left behind to try to capture our machine guns.
“I was blown by mortar fire into a shell crater that was quite deep. I was unconscious, I don’t know for how long, and I was mistaken for dead.
“If it hadn’t been for the fact that I was in the bottom of this crater unconscious, I would have been dead.
When the war finished, Mr Long was in the forces of occupation for three years.
It was during these years that he worked in a bakery and learned to cook which formed his future direction.
He became a chef which took him forwards in his career after his army service.
“I worked in numerous restaurants in England and also in a few different hotels,” he said.
After arriving in Australia 1965, Mr Long worked with Qantas in on-flight catering, where I in Sydney.
Settling in Caringbah Mr Long and his wife, Anne were married for 75 years and enjoyed a wonderful marriage.
In light of all of the above, Mr Long was the perfect subject to be featured in the annual ANZAC Day video Hall & Prior creates to mark the solemn occasion.
In this video, Daniel shares his memories of his time as a soldier in Europe during the Second World War, interviewed by his son.
He has five children, six grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and was presented with a special medal from the Kogarah RSL Sub-branch at the ANZAC Commemoration Service at Georges Estate Health and Aged Care Community on April 24.
Only six returned servicemen in the region were awarded this special honour, marking the time they have served their country and the Commonwealth.
The residents and staff at Agmaroy Aged Care Home in Perth took the time to pay their respects during a simple ANZAC Day ceremony last week.
In addition to the friends and families of residents, Sam Lim MP also attended the service on behalf of his constituents as the Federal Labor Member for Tangney.
Meanwhile, the residents of Menaville in NSW took great pride in hosting VIPs for their ANZAC Day Commemoration on April 18. It was a solemn morning, also attended by 233 ACU Cadet Unit who delivered the catafalque party at our memorial as a sign of respect.
The catafalque party consists of four members of an armed guard who stand, their heads bowed, and their arms (weapon) reversed. The guard stands facing outward approximately one metre from the coffin or catafalque as a symbolic form of respect for those who have fallen.
A big thank you to Manager and Advisor to the Hon. Stephen Kamper MP, Member for Rockdale, Mr George Perivolarellis and Councillor, Office of the Mayor, Ms Liz Barlow, Anne Brown and Clem Goodwin from the Bexley RSL Sub Branch, Kaiya and Michaela from Rockdale Public School, and Michael Carney for their address
contributions to this wonderful commemoration service.
Giving our residents the opportunity to reflect and show their respect around ANZAC Day is of great importance in all of the Hall & Prior aged care homes, and Clover Lea in NSW is no exception.
Staff held an immersive commemoration service for our residents, with staff adorning the walls with stories about ANZAC Day, providing an opportunity for our residents to engage with and reflect upon this important part of our history.
Our large, decorated glass entrance door was eye-catching with colourful ANZAC-themed murals, movingly setting the tone for the day.
During the service, there were several poignant moments
which truly touched the hearts of our residents and staff alike. Residents Ward and Carole beautifully recited a poem, adding a personal touch to the proceedings.
Hughie’s daughter Lisa delivered a heartfelt commemorative address, shedding light on the significance of this day from a personal perspective. Additionally, six other families joined us to share stories and poems, enriching the experience for everyone present.
Pastor Jerry also provided a moving prayer, further emphasizing the solemnity of the occasion.
It was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who came before us, laying the foundation for the great nation we are privileged to be
a part of today.
In the west, the weather really turned it on for our annual ANZAC Day memorial service this morning at Windsor Park in Perth.
Special guests Sue Gordon & RSL Member Terry Reynolds both made said that it was a wonderful and emotional service.
As you can see from the pictures, there were many residents, staff and distinguished guests who were warmly invited to the service.
Staff and residents alike were invited to do readings and the laying of wreaths. Special mention should also be made of the bugle player, Victor Moss too; all were special highlights.
Wendy and Carl, our Aboriginal Liaison Officers,
put on a wonderful display for our Indigenous residents and cooked up a storm with kangaroo stew, damper, scones as well as ANZAC biscuits which proved to be a hit with everyone.
The staff of Clarence Estate in Albany held a heartwarming service and brought together the community in a touching tribute to honour the sacrifices and bravery of our past and present service personnel.
“The feedback from residents and families who attended has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Jenny Cooper, Executive Manager at Clarence Estate.
“Many have expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to pay respects and reflect on the significance of ANZAC Day. We are deeply touched by the support and appreciation shown by everyone who participated.”
A huge thank you goes to Paul Hines from the RSL, whose keynote address resonated deeply with all in attendance.
“His words served as a poignant reminder of the courage and resilience of our servicemen and women,” said Jenny.
‘We also extend our gratitude to our speakers: Natalie Skalko (CNM), Megan Downes (Home care manager), John Bembridge (resident of Clarence Estate), and Vanessa Hillerman (relationships manager), our MC for the day, Laura Johnston (lifestyle coordinator) whose contributions added depth and meaning to the service.”
The service itself was a beautiful tribute, allowing many members of Clarence Estate and the communityat-large to come together to honour the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women.
“It is important to acknowledge and remember their courage and dedication, and events like these provide us with the opportunity to do
just that,” said Jenny.
As we reflect on the ANZAC Commemorative Service of 2024, let us carry forward the spirit of remembrance and gratitude in our daily lives. Together, we honour the legacy of our heroes and ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
We will remember. Lest we forget.
With winter just around the corner, it’s a time for lyrebirds to call in NSW and good fishing to be had in WA.
It’s the time of Wiritjiribin - Tugarah Gunya’marri in New South Wales. During July and August, the weather is cold and windy.
The Wiritjiribin (or lyrebird) calls ring out through the bushland as he builds his dancing mounds to attract his potential mates. It’s the time of the flowering of the Marrai’uo (Acacia floribunda) which is a sign that the fish are running in the rivers. At the end of this time, the Boo’kerrikin (Acacia decurrens) flowers, which indicates the end of the cold, windy weather and the beginning of the gentle spring rains.
Meanwhile, in Western Australia, it’s Makuru, the coldest season with rain, storms and long nights. There is good hunting to be had of yongka (kangaroo), wetj (emu), kaarda (goanna), koomal (possum) and kwenda (bandicoot). As August begins, so does Djilba (or first spring). It’s a transitional time of year with some very cold and clear days combined with warmer, rainy and windy days.
You’ll notice budding djet (flowers) and koola (emu plum) start to fruit. It’s also a great time to catch some djildjit (fish).
Karingal Green resident Ron and his twin brother Jim Ligman are as close as ever as they prepare to celebrate a special birthday together.
Karingal Green resident Ron Ligman and his twin brother Jim have always lived by the motto that a problem shared is a problem halved.
Born in 1944 at St John of God Hospital in Subiaco the fraternal twins were born an hour apart, with Jim first, a fact Ron says “he never lets me forget!”
Their German dad Alfred and mum Mary settled in Armadale where Alfred was a poultry farmer. The twins loved playing together on the farm, enjoying a simple rural childhood, but we’re often up to no good at school.
“We did everything together and that included getting into trouble at school, there were often hijinks,” Jim remembers.
“We were double trouble that’s for sure,” Ron added. “We burnt one of Dad’s delivery vans once by playing with matches!”
When the twins were three, their Dad bought the bakery in Yarloop, so the family moved south, then some years later, he purchased the Dardanup Bakery.
Famous for its delicious pies and sweet treats the family lived in a house that was originally where the Dardanup Bakery still
stands, and although the house is long gone, the pies are still just as delicious.
But before they got to Dardanup their ‘kid’ brother Patrick was born. The twins were now ‘in charge’ of a brother eight years their junior.
Constant helpers in the bakery after school, the twins delivered bread to the locals on their bikes, and sometimes snuck a sample for themselves
When they were 18 the family moved to Busselton and not long after both boys met the loves of their lives. Ron married Jan and Jim married Judy when they were both 24. Also on a similar timeframe were their kids, Jim and Judy welcomed a son and daughter Colin and Beverly, while Ron and Jan welcomed Michael and Diana.
Ron was a store manager for Goodyear Tyres before owning and running several small businesses and Jim made a career out of first being a mechanic and then a full time apiarist (beekeeper).
And while their lives have shared many synchronicities according to Jim the best thing about being twins is: “You were never lonely, you always had someone to play with, and always had a back-up without asking.” Ron agreed adding “That’s it, you’re always together and someone always has your back.”
The twins turn 80 on June 12 and will celebrate with a big family party, with Ron having an extra celebration with his new friends at Karingal Green.
Happy birthday, boys!
April Falls Month highlighted the frequency and dangers of falls for the over 65s, as well as suggesting ways to reduce their occurrence. SPOTLIGHT ON ...
By MOLLY CROZIER PhysiotherapistApril Falls is an annual campaign introduced in the month of April to raise awareness about the impact of falls and to promote the latest best practice fall prevention strategies. The overall campaign goal is to get active and improve balance for fall prevention. It’s a campaign that’s promoted by the NSW Fall Prevention and Healthy Ageing Network and provides resources to use across the community and residential-residing older adults to assist in preventing falls.
First of all, some stats around falls in the ageing population.
Did you know, 30% of older adults over the age of 65 will experience falls each year?
In WA during 2021, there were 47, 644 fall-related trips to the emergency department and 32, 252 fall-related hospitalisations. Those over 85 years old were the most affected.
To try to reduce these high numbers of incidents, it’s possible to introduce some simple habits for those who are most at risk. One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of falls and fallsrelated trips to hospital is to include regular strength and
balance exercises into your daily routine.
Prompted by April Falls and across a few Hall & Prior aged care homes in WA and NSW, we made it a month-long focus to provide education and improve the balance of our residents. Each week, the physiotherapist and therapy team ran Falls Prevention Exercise Groups to push the residents to step outside of their comfort zone and challenge their balance.
Exercises performed in the class included whole-body gentle stretches promoting flexibility, sit to stand exercises to work on lower limb and functional strength and challenging the balance with varied standing exercises.
While this program focuses on one aspect of falls prevention, addressing falls and reducing the risk requires a multidisciplinary approach to assess multiple areas of our health and wellbeing.
Additional measures to prevent falls
• Did you know that it’s a fact that wearing bifocal glasses can increase your risk of falls? Ensuring our residents’ eye sight is as good as possible is one step we’re monitoring . We want to ensure that residents are wearing appropriate eye wear and have vision checks regularly by an optometrist.
• It is also important to stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking water and fluids, especially in the warmer months. Equally, it is important to have a
varied and nutritious diet, to ensure we are getting vital nutrients and vitamins to support a healthy body.
• Be sure to speak up about any aches or pains you may be experiencing and have them reviewed by your GP or physiotherapist. Pain can have a big impact on how we move our bodies and our mobility.
• Keeping a tidy, clutter free living space can reduce our risks of trips and slips. Having well-fitting and comfortable clothing and footwear will also assist in reducing risk of trips. Footwear should have a low heel with support around the heel.
• Using a prescribed walking aid, can assist with
increasing stability when walking. A physiotherapist can assist in recommending an aid to suit your needs and preferences.
• Finally, did you know, Vitamin D supplementation can reduce falls by 17% and higher doses of vitamin D3 can reduce hip fracture risk by 30%?
To prevent falls and maintain independence this should include exercise or activities that improve strength and balance. Every bit of activity helps.
To find out more about this campaign, visit fallsnetwork.neura.edu.au
Vaucluse Aged Care Home in NSW has some adorable feathered friends which are loved by one and all.
Arriving in early March to their new home at Vaucluse in Sydney, our love bird budgies were donated to the residents and staff by a family member, Gloria Ward.
At just 11-weeks old on their arrival, our new little friends are full of energy and love to sing.
The very important process of naming our new Prior’s Pets was put to the vote in the Residents & Relative Meeting and the winning names for out budgie duo are – of course – Romeo and Juliet. The reason these names won was thanks to the fact that our little birdies love to kiss a lot.
The smooching is terribly cute and amuses everyone who passes by. The affection the birds show towards each other is quite hypnotic and we often see many residents, family members and staff stop to admire how loving these little birds are towards each other.
They love to be together and play all the time. Grooming each other is also high on the priority list for their daily tasks. Their little cage home is filled with fun toys, and as a visitor remarked, “it looks like a budgie kindergarten!”.
Romeo is very fond of dancing back and forth while watching himself in the mirrors and can be quite boisterous, singing and chirping loudly as he bounces from ledge to ledge. Meanwhile Juliet likes to chirp away quietly in a very sweet voice, almost like she is reciting poems penned by the Bard himself. She also enjoys doing acrobatics like hanging upside down.
The pretty little couple live in the lounge room on the ground floor, but during the mornings they are moved to
The reason these names won was thanks to the fact that our little birdies love to kiss a lot.
the front door where they can interact and watch the world go by. Vaucluse’s Director of Nursing, Manezheh loves to watch them from her office window.
“It is lovely to see all the visitors stop and greet them on their way in,” says Manezheh.
Kim Mackenzie is the resident pictured in the photos, and she comes down to the lounge room or front entrance to check on them numerous times a day.
Who’s a pretty boy (and girl)?
At Clover Lea, Mother’s Day was a very special day, brimming with love and joy as we paid tribute to the incredible mothers in our midst.
Staff transformed the lounge into a cosy retreat, adorning it with balloons, flowers, and delectable treats, setting the stage for a delightful morning tea. The highlight of the event was our hamper giveaway, and seeing Marguerite’s face light up as she received this beautiful surprise brought smiles to everyone’s faces.
Families of the residents played an essential role in making the day truly special.
They showered their mothers with gifts and flowers, adding to the warmth of the occasion.
Some even brought delicious homemade dishes, which were enjoyed at a meticulously set table by our dedicated staff.
Mother’s Day is not merely about expressing gratitude to our mothers and grandmothers; it’s about sharing blessings and passing on love from one generation to the next.
The resilience and tenderness of mothers enrich our world, and we are profoundly grateful for their unwavering love and care.
Meanwhile, at Menaville, the mums enjoyed a Sunday concert and High Tea to show them just how special they are.
The residents enjoyed lots of visitors on Sunday from loved ones looking to show their mums and grandmothers just how much they are appreciated.
One thing became very clear on May 12 this yearWestern Sydney loves its mothers!
Our Fairfield home in western Sydney had the most wonderful celebration on Mother’s Day to show our mums how much we really care. Starting with a lovely afternoon tea, our proud mothers took all that cake energy and put it into some
late afternoon singing and dancing!
What a meaningful, spontaneous, and fun day.
Over in WA, Freshwater Bay Aged Care Home held a Mother’s Day afternoon tea where the mums enjoyed a special treat of vegetable spring rolls and quiche with some sweet treats of blueberry muffins, lemon slice and strawberry cakes.
Staff also brewed up some barista like coffee for an extra special treat. The afternoon tea was then followed by a special Mother’s Day concert by Julie Gardner.
Belmont and Mosman Park Aged Care Homes also celebrated their mums with plenty of TLC and treats to go round.
International Nurses Day fell on the same day as Mother’s Day on May 12 and to celebrate, we created a very special video with some of our NSW nurses (and mothers) taking a starring role.
The over-riding theme of Hall & Prior’s most recent video showcasing staff in honour of Mother’s Day and International Nurses Day (IND) is how big-hearted they are.
Despite the day being specifically celebrated to spoil all our mums and nursing staff, typically those interviewed in the video –including Jade, Tigi, Sarah
and Tiffany from Aubrey Downer and Georges Estate – wanted to ensure that those they cared for were the centre of attention instead.
“Mother’s Day means honouring our mums for all the selfless things they have done for their children,” said Tiffany, a nurse at Georges Estate.
For Jade, who is a nurse at Aubrey Downer Aged Care Home, the day means
“coming together as women and celebrating the people that have influenced us and raised us”.
Sarah, who oversees Georges Estate in Penshurst, is a passionate nurse and mum.
“The love I have for my children is very much what I do in my everyday role at Georges Estate, which is loving my residents and loving my staff,” she said.
“Our hearts are very big as nurses and we can fill lots of people in them.”
The virtues of a good mum are shared by those who excel in the nursing profession.
“Coming into aged care, I’ve learnt as a mother that you need to have patience and understanding,” said Vicky, a nurse at Aubrey Downer.
For those who work within the Hall & Prior Aged Care Group, the chance to continue to work in the nursing profession and be a mother is a special juggling act which, according to Sarah, is made easier thanks to the organisation as a whole.
“I’ve never worked for an organisation that cares for their staff so much,” she says.
Thank you to all our nursing staff for all you do.
After a few years, we finally held a Rockabilly Bash event at Mertome again. The atmosphere was electric as everyone came dressed up in their best vintage attire with their dancing shoes on.
The talented Jay Weston kept the party going with his amazing performance that lasted throughout the night. The kitchen was buzzing with activity as hot dogs were grilled to perfection, and some scrumptious chocolate sundaes were prepared with care. It was a night to remember, filled with great music, delicious food, and plenty of dancing.
We think the photos really convey just how much fun it was for everybody too - rock on, Mertome!
Last Friday was a very special day for Grafton Aged Care Home resident Pegg Burnell.
Pegg celebrated her 100th birthday, enjoying a morning tea with residents and staff and her many relatives who had travelled from as far away as Townsville and Melbourne to mark the occasion.
Her room at the home resembles a florist shop at the moment with vases adorning every available space and in between the vases are all the cards wishing her the best.
In the lead-up to her birthday celebrations, Pegg and a group of residents were treated to a pamper morning where, in between facials and having their nails done and cups of tea, they discussed the many changes in fashion, beauty and lifestyles during the past 100 years.
Pegg is the poster girl for a healthy lifestyle at the home and is the first to attend daily exercises despite having mobility problems. She doesn’t let her low vision get in the way of her Bingo and loves socialising, bus outings and spending time with those whom she has made close friendships with.
When we decided to volunteer at Mend and Make Do in South Grafton, Pegg’s compassionate nature shone out and was ready to help by packing essentials for those less fortunate. She may not be able to see well but does a fantastic job counting the items to go into bags.
Pegg has a cheerful disposition and a welcoming smile for everyone. She is a much-loved resident of our home.
Congratulations Pegg! #100
“Did you know that orchids are the world’s only underground flowers?”
“Did you know vanilla comes from an orchid?”
For the lucky residents of Braemar Village and Braemar House, they were able to add to their knowledge and love of gardening through joining the local BunningsAustralia Garden Club. We came to understand that there is so much more to orchids and other plants than the showy specimens we see in supermarkets.
Bunnings Garden Club runs a different workshop each month on Wednesdays from 10AM. This month in April, the residents attended the Orchid Society workshop, learning more about orchids, the flowers that turn around 180 degrees downwards.
Bringing the two Braemar aged care homes’ residents together at the same event also created happiness and excitement rising to the next level, building a stronger connection between homes within the Hall & Prior Aged Care Group.
Residents of Fairfield Aged Care Home in NSW recently enjoyed a wonderful day trip to Pioneer Village at Windsor where they jumped
They’re a musical bunch at Leighton Aged Care Home, and during a recent happy hour, the residents were in fine voice.
Led by Rocco Cilli on guitar who also asked his fellow housemates riddles, popular songs were the order of the day as other residents joined in.
Other singers included: John Buss, Jadwiga Beras, John Verdonk, John Anderson, Ada and Marino Bosich, Tony Clarke, Tony Docking, Fred Potter and Tom Nunn.
back in time to ye olde Sydney Towne, experiencing the atmosphere and activities of life over 100 years ago.
Residents were amazed at
the old homes, cinemas, post office, banks and the sweet shop. Some of our residents even enjoyed drawing water up from the hand well. We all rode on tractors, train and hay rides, loving every minute of this colonial adventure.
Some of the ladies dressed up in old clothes and had their picture taken. We enjoyed a lovely picnic lunch while mixing with the locals as they told us about their wonderful stories and how hard life was back then.
Some adventurous Hocart Lodge residents headed to Brugan Brewery in Wokalup last week for a delicious lunch.
Riding in Hocart’s brand new bus, it was a lovely day trip to this independent brewery for the group who were keen to sample the menu.
The brewery prides itself on using produce supplied by many local farmers including meat and cheese. They even send out their
food scraps to a local pig farmer, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
And the residents’ verdict? A big thumbs up.
It was a day to remember recently at Caroline Chisholm Aged Care Home in NSW.
There was so much joy and excitement filling the home during its recent Carnival Day with live music entertainment, fairy floss, foods and beverages, all bringing smiles to our residents’ and their family members’ faces.
Carnival-goers enjoyed petting and interacting with the patient ponies, watching (and then eating) fairy floss being made, listening to the live music performed by Helen Eales (Nightingale of CC), and creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
No carnival would be complete without plenty of delicious food, and the BBQ and beverage station did a roaring trade.
“There really was something for everyone to enjoy,” said Kathy Lau, Director of Nursing at Caroline Chisholm.
“The highlight of the day was seeing our resident surrounded by their families, sharing laughter, and creating new memories together.
Thanks to all the staff and the lovely people from Ponies for Parties for making the day so special.
The residents at Braemar Cooinda Aged Care Home in WA were very interested in finding out more about the local Aboriginal Noongar culture and in particular, the changing seasons.
Each activity was designed for differing cognitive abilities and encouraged residents to get involved and hands-on. They were very proud of their achievements and would love to do more.
Djeran occurs in April and May according to the Noongar people. Cooler weather is coming and fishing will continue, and seeds are collected for food.
The next season which falls during June and July in Western Australia is called Makura.
Residents at Clarence Estate had a fantastic time earlier this month, casting lines and enjoying the sunshine at Emu Point’s Jetty.
The small group enjoyed both the atmosphere and each other’s company as well as the excitement of catching a fish or two. Just check out those big, beaming smiles . . .
The residents and staff of Caroline Chisholm in NSW created a wonderfully intimate 81st birthday celebration for resident Derek this morning.
The staff put up decorations and presented a lovely carrot cake while they all sang ‘Happy Birthday To You’ with gusto!
As if one cake wasn’t enough, later in the afternoon a combined birthday was organised for some other residents’ birthdays for the month of April with sponge cake and beverages of choice.
It was wonderful to hear the room abuzz with laughter, music and love shared among residents. Happy birthday, one and all!
It was a very special day when we recently took some of our residents from Freshwater Bay Aged Care for a trip to Cottesloe Beach. Our residents enjoyed some very special sculptures by the sea.
Both Michael and Richard grew up going down to the beach for a swim as young boys, so it was a trip down memory lane for both of them.
This was the 20th Anniversary of Sculptures by the Sea in Cottesloe.
Farmyard friends pay Belmont residents a visit
Farmer Mick visited the residents at Belmont Aged Care Home in Perth recently.
Everyone was enjoying the pats and chance to cuddle some of our favourite farmyard friends. We also had a few escapee goats who decided they would like to be a resident here too!
Looking forward to our next visit from Farmer Mick and friends already . . .
Bright and colourful neon powder covered our residents and staff as Fairfield Aged Care Home in NSW celebrated Holi festival on March 25 in line with the Northern hemisphere’s end of winter celebration.
Known as the Festival of Colours, Holi is celebrated on the last full moon in the lunar month of Phalguna and marks
the end of the northern hemisphere’s winter and beginning of spring, while also honouring the triumph of good over evil.
Everybody truly enjoyed throwing colourful powder called ‘gulal’ over themselves to immerse ourselves in the values and meaning of this festival! What a happy day!
Well, we couldn’t have picked a more perfect day for the Farmyard on Wheels to visit the residents (and staff) of Windsor Park Aged Care Home in Perth.
Michael and his lovely troop of rabbits, guinea pigs, baby lambs and friendly goats proved to be a resounding success.
Animals hold such a very special place in the hearts of all our residents, even if they weren’t animal lovers before. As you can see from the sheer joy on their faces, the hour that Michael and co were here for certainly wasn’t long enough!
Animal therapy is a huge part of aged care and we are always delighted when we are able to provide this invaluable interaction.
Clinical Nurse Manager Rojina has departed Glenwood now to prepare for her next big act - a baby! To send Rojina off, the home held a baby shower where a large amount of staff popped along to celebrate including many familiar faces from Hall & Prior state office.
Staff were encouraged to bring cultural dishes in for all those in attendance to try, as well as provide Rojina with
some handy gifts that can help her with the challenges ahead.
Staff were encouraged to bring in their own children to celebrate with Rojina and give her an idea of what comes
next! Everyone enjoyed a wide selection of cakes for dessert.
We wish Rojina the best as she steps away for from Glenwood to focus on her next wonderful baby project!
The Australian newspaper featured Clarence Estate resident Kip Kuiper in a story about his experience of aged care and of course, we had to share a photo of his big moment in print.
After staying in another aged care facility, Kip, who is a father of three, moved into Clarence Estate about five months ago.
According to The Australian,
Kip “especially appreciates having a self-contained unit with his own shower and bathroom.
“They look after you pretty well,” Mr Kuiper said. “If you’re losing mobility, this is the place to come. There’s no two ways about that because they look after you if you’ve got a walker or wheelchair.”
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Kip!
Residents of Grafton Aged Care Home in NSW enjoyed a splendid visit from our new class of 2024 preschooler friends in March.
Resident Hedney kissed each one on top of the head and told them individually that they were beautiful - it was such a touching moment to witness! To acquaint each of us, we practiced a fun game of holding up the first letter of each child’s name so they could go around and find their letters.
The preschoolers were helped by our residents to decorate their letters with stickers – a very sticky activity that had us all smiling. Our resident artist Joan was very excited to draw the children, saying that it was very difficult because they kept moving!
We think she did a pretty good job nonetheless - what do you think?
Concorde Aged Care Home in WA residents made the most of the beautiful weather in May by indulging in a Hawaiian party. Residents were eager to get going first thing and excitement grew when they saw staff decorating the garden area in preparation for this unusual occasion.
A Hawaiian-inspired afternoon tea and performance were prepared by the therapy team. Physiotherapy Matt together with care staff, the DDON, therapy staff and students performed a Hawaiian dance number which was the highlight of the event.
The joy this event brought to our residents could be seen through their smiles and the positive feedback they have provided.
“Moments like these give our team the inspiration to hold bigger and better events which our residents love and enjoy,” said Director of Nursing, Jesusa Silverio.
With residents representing a multitude of backgrounds including the UK, Vietnam, Slovenia and Italy, Harmony Day in March held profound significance for Clover Lea Aged Care Home in NSW.
Their celebrations served as a beautiful occasion to gather and revel in the vibrant array of cultures that define this diverse community.
Witnessing residents proudly identify their national flags and share aspects of their respective cultures was truly heartening.
Furthermore, our dedicated staff, originating from nations like Fiji, Nepal, India, China,
South Korea, Portugal and many others, embody the essence of cooperation and mutual support.
Despite their diverse backgrounds, they work together seamlessly as a cohesive team, embracing their cultural differences while striving towards common goals.
In this small corner of the world, Clover Lea stands as a microcosm of the global village, where diverse cultures converge harmoniously - the epitome of Harmony Week in action in fact.
Meanwhile at it was a very harmonious group of staff
at Bexley Aged Care Home in NSW gathered during Harmony Week to enjoy a staff lunch together.
The lunch was made all the more special as each staff member brought along a cultural dish from their backgrounds, which included an array of different (and tasty) meals highlighting how a good meal brings everybody together.
What a great way to recognise diversity and inclusion - and enjoy a good feed into the bargain. The staff commented on how nice it was to have a bit of time together for the occasion, however brief!
Vaucluse Aged Care Home
Bus outings provide an opportunity for the residents and their families to spend time together and enjoy beautiful scenery and the iconic sights of Sydney. The residents at Vaucluse Aged Care Home also appreciate having morning tea while getting fresh air and soaking up some sun.
During the last outing, Lifestyle Officer Angie’s daughter, Aurora, accompanied the residents, adding to the enjoyment with her adorable presence, especially as she tried to assist the residents. The residents expressed a desire to revisit the same spot to relax in a lovely park with a spectacular view of the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour, and the Harbour Bridge.
As the summer season drew to a close and we prepare to transition to our winter menu for May, the team recently celebrated their final BBQ day in the radiant garden of Clover Lea.
Bathed in the gentle warmth of the sun, our residents indulged in delectable treats, surrounded by the vibrant colours of blooming flowers. Adding to the magic of the day was the presence of one of the member of staff’s 15-year-old boy, Beau Jones, who not only accompanied residents but also delighted everyone by playing the piano in the garden during the BBQ.
With live music, delicious food, and the company of loved ones, our residents enjoyed a day filled with laughter and joy, bidding a fond farewell to summer’s embrace.
theThe best day of my life is when I welcome my grandchildren to the house – and the best day of my life is when I wave them bye-bye.”
~ Natale Rusconi, Grand Hotelier and Grandfather of 8
They bounce into our lives, our grandchildren. They spill their orange juice on the sofa, leave grubby fingerprints on the walls, get glue all over themselves and the furniture, and make far too much noise. And then they go home. Oh, the blessed quiet. And yet, far too soon, you start missing them.
Our own children, delightful as they may be most of the
time, don’t really find us interesting. Possibly, because they think that having lived with us for a fair slice of their lives, they know us already, and unfortunately, familiarity breeds irritation. While grandchildren, looking at us with awe because of our great age, find us rather fascinating. I am repeatedly asked by my two youngest, now aged 7 and 10, how old I am.
u 27?” “Are you 73?” “Are you 46?” They’re all just numbers to them and far too big to belong to just one person, so when they are reminded, yet again, that I am 82, going on for 83, they are blown away. Eyes round with wonder, they then move on to what it must have been like in the olden days. “Were you alive when Joan of Arc was a girl?”
Not exactly. But I remember
when there were no fridges or even washing machines and when only very rich people travelled in planes, and there were no mobile phones. Not even TV. Just the radio.
“What’s the radio?” they ask, and I retreat into my own secret world for the next half hour or so. Was it really such a long time ago?
When Leela, first granddaughter, was three years old, she was filled with questions. Anything, from why bother to cook cake mixture to why can’t dogs talk? Usually, I could oblige, but once, probably over-tired and ready to hand her over, I said, “I don’t know”. She was horrified, “But granny,” she said, “I fought you knew everyfing.”
I was devastated, and still blushed, eleven years later, as I wrote this sentence. Yet, who can resist being considered interesting and knowledgeable at this time in our lives? Only yesterday, we were ‘getting old’, ‘pensioners’; we were senior citizens who needed a hand getting on the bus. Suddenly, thanks to small people with curiosity and a thirst for knowing things, we have a whole new role in life.
We are the buffer zone. Parents, up to their ears in trying to make a living are not super-human. They need a break. Mine, and I suspect yours, have wildly demanding jobs and thanks to their ubiquitous mobile phones, are on-call all the time. 24/7. Whereas, grannies and grandpas, dipping in and out of children’s lives, cushioning the odd fall from grace, spending time doing
nothing much, just being there, provide another level of comfort that would otherwise be missing.
One of the best grandparents I have ever met, Liz, discovered the genre late in life. When her daughter, Clare, got married, Liz assured her that she wouldn’t be pressuring for grandchildren, had done the whole children thing already, and wasn’t about to start again. Then Clare had Josh, and the whole pack of cards collapsed. Liz fell more in love than she had ever been before. Her heart, she said, literally ached as she watched this small person grow up and love her back. After Josh, came Sam, and then Alice, and each one
enjoyed the time and the warmth and the adventure of being with Liz. She told me about one special morning she spent with Josh, who was about nine years old at the time. Liz suggested they go for a swim, and while Josh wasn’t too keen, he agreed, and as it turned out, it was one of those magic days at the ocean. They swam around the reef, saw a tiny pink octopus, and explored rock pools, and Josh loved every moment. “It made me feel really happy,” he told Liz. “It felt good.”
She asked him what else in his life had the same effect.
“You,” he said.
See what I mean . . .
Ageing gracefully with vibrancy and enthusiasm is all about embracing life’s changes and maintaining a positive outlook. Here are ten ways to age with a spring in your step:
1 Walk the talk
Regular exercise is key to maintaining energy levels, flexibility, and strength as you age. Find activities you enjoy, whether it’s walking, swimming, yoga, or dancing. Many communities have local sports facilities which also open the door to opportunities to make friends while you dance, swim or keep fit.
2 Your body is a temple
Ditch junk food in favour of temple food. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains to fuel your body with essential nutrients. Stay hydrated and limit processed foods and sugary snacks. The advantages of following this way of feeding your body has the knock-on effect of ensuring your brain remains sharp and focused for as long as possible.
3 Making friends is good for you
If you can, surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who
uplift and inspire you. Aim to engage in meaningful social interactions to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. Chat to your neighbour over the garden fence. Spend time getting to know your favourite shopkeeper. Ask your grandkids over to play cards or look through old photos. It’ll be an hour or two well-spent.
4 Never stop learning
Keep your mind sharp by engaging in lifelong learning so if you’ve always fancied learning how to play the ukulele or speak Italian, now’s your chance. Whether it’s taking up a new hobby, learning a new language, or pursuing educational opportunities, challenging your brain can help ward off cognitive decline and keep you feeling on the ball.
5 Be grateful for what you have
If you can cultivate a mindset of gratitude by focusing on the positive aspects of your life, you’ll discover life takes on a rosier hue. Take time each day to reflect on the things you’re thankful for, big or small, or keep a journal where you note every day something that’s made you smile.
6 Make sure you get plenty of zzz
Quality sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine and aim for between seven to nine hours of sleep each night to feel rested and rejuvenated. There are some great aps you can download onto your phone too which will track your sleep pattens and alert you should there
be any incidences of sleep apnoea which you can raise with your doctor.
7 Keep a to do list –and do it
Find activities or causes that give your life meaning and purpose. Whether it’s volunteering, mentoring, or pursuing a lifelong passion, having a sense of purpose can enhance your overall satisfaction and fulfilment. Start small and you’ll discover that by finding your purpose may give you an extra reason to get up and going every morning.
8 Curiosity is good for you
Approach life with a sense of curiosity and wonder. Even as we age, there are still plenty of things which can surprise and delight us. Stay open to new experiences, ideas, and perspectives, and embrace the opportunities for growth and exploration that come your way.
9 Make time for some self-TLC
If you’ve been feeling a little down in the dumps, make selfcare a priority by incorporating activities that promote relaxation and stress relief into your routine. Try meditation, mindfulness, or indulging in a favourite hobby because taking care of yourself is essential for overall well-being.
10 Change is good for you
If you’re feeling worried about what growing old may mean for you, try to look on the ageing process as a new adventure. Accept that change is a natural part of life and embrace it with optimism and resilience. Focus on what you can control and adapt to the inevitable transitions and challenges that come with ageing.
By incorporating these habits into your lifestyle, you can approach ageing with vitality and enthusiasm, embracing each day with renewed vigour and vim.
Director of Care, Georges Estate, Pehshurst, NSWA
Upama Adhikari, Director of Care at Georges Estate in Penshurst, NSW takes her role seriously and those of the staff under her management, aiming to make the aged care community the best in class.
L&L How long you’ve been working in aged care, and what drew you to the profession?
UA: I have been in the nursing profession for over 16 7ears. I began my career as a nursing assistant then stepped up as a Registered Nurse when I finished my degree at the University of Tasmania. After working hard and being
dedicated to my career, I was appointed as a Clinical Care Coordinator. From there, I was appointed as a care manager for several years and worked through the treacherous COVID pandemic. I came to Hall & Prior as the Director of Care here at Georges Estate. Compassionate care is what really drew me into this profession. I grew up without having grandparents and I have always missed the love and care from them. This is what drew me to aged care nursing.
L&L When did you join Hall & Prior?
UA:I joined Hall & Prior in May 2023 as the Director of Care at Georges Estate. Before this, I was working as a care manager with another service provider. It was there that I met Sarah Riach, our Executive Director, and we worked together for many years. When she asked me to come and join her at Georges Estate I jumped at the opportunity. Sarah had told me over the years what a great organisation Hall & Prior was to work for, so I was delighted to join the team.
L&L What do you particularly enjoy about your role – and what are the challenges you face?
UA In my current role I oversee all clinical care provided in our home. I love being there for our residents and for our staff. I get to know lots of life experiences of our people and have had opportunities to learn from residents while listening to their unique stories. Likewise, I love to share my experience
with the staff as well as learning from them. I have learned so much from experiences that have been shared by my mentors. In turn, I mentor my clinical team including the Clinical Managers, Registered Nurses, Nursing Assistants, and other allied services. Knowing about each individual resident and finding about their exact needs and preferences and what can be done better to provide quality care to them always remains my utmost priority.
Aged care is a rapid changing industry; compliance is changing regularly and having a new generation workforce can be challenging at times. However, providing timely updates to staff, organising education, and training and implementing strategic planning, and even sharing positive experiences is always helpful to overcome such challenges.
L&L: On a day-to-day basis, what makes your role special and how do you plan on inspiring staff at our home?
UA I have always believed in quality care in a homelike setting and we should be proud of the service we deliver to our residents. I strongly believe in being a role model to the staff. Every day is different as the needs and demands change, and we as aged care workers should be proactive and should sense what is coming next and plan accordingly in a timely manner. Planning is the key, and this is what I would like to implant in all my staff’s work methodology and practice when they commence the shift in a daily basis. Establishing a good work culture where support is always available as they need it, and always being there for staff is what inspires the staff in our home.
L&L If somebody was contemplating a career in aged care, what advice would you give them?
UA If you possess the love, care, and compassion for elderly people within yourself, then you will be the right fit for our industry. When we are recruiting staff, we always look for staff that have a heart full of love and kindness, who will give that love and kindness to our residents throughout everything they do. You get to go home filled with joy because you have made a difference in someone’s life, it really can bring you great satisfaction each and every day.
L&L What kind of leader/ DON are you – how do you think your colleagues would describe you?
UA I treat people with equal respect, and I expect the same, regardless of their age, gender, or position. I have always believed in a teamwork and we all should be responsible for our
actions. I perform my duties and fulfil my responsibilities with 100% commitment, and I expect all my team members to do the same. I am here to a build a strong team who share common goals and works for the betterment of residents and maintain the pride that the company name carries.
L&L What makes for a good day in aged care in your chosed career path - and how do you keep smiling in the face of everyday life and death situations encountered in aged care?
UA A smiling resident’s face makes my day whenever I enter Georges Estate. You create a bond among residents when you spend so much time with them compared toy our own family members and the bond becomes so strong that it’s very hard to let go some days. Keeping our emotions aside, we are clinicians and professionals, and we should prepare for all life and death situations that we encounter
and hence we should be able to separate our personal emotional boundaries and professional boundaries space.
L&L What plans do you have for your home – and how do you relax when you have finished work for the day?
UA My plan for our home is to be recognised as high standard quality care provider with a homely and comfortable environment for residents, families and for staff members as well.
I’m building a positive work culture and a home filled with love, care, and kindness towards each other. I have a busy schedule at home so it can be hard to balance between full time work and two school-aged kids. I try to spend most of time with my kids, a fur baby and family when I finish work.
L&L Tell us something we don’t know about you?
UA: I might look very serious, but I can be very humorous at times. I may be cracking jokes and make you laugh with my funny comments if you really know me well.
L&L Do you have an affirmation that you like to work to or that shapes the way you lead?
There are many affirmations that have shaped the way I lead but this is my favourite by Mother Teresa: “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness. Kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile
Georges Estate is a remarkable care community that supports residents to live a vibrant and connected life.
• Enjoy our Wellness Centre’s hydrotherapy pool and other facilities;
• Relax knowing you have 24-hour care and support; and
• Splash out on life’s luxuries with our package of extra services. For an exclusive tour in person or a virtual tour online, book through our website: www.georgesestate.com.au/bookatour/
Nhaids ‘Zenny’ Grapes is a long way from her home in the Philippines but she’s found a welcoming new family at Clarence Estate in Albany, WA.
L&L What made you want to become an aged care worker?
ZG Since I migrated to Australia and I was looking for a job, this field of work was the first to come to my mind. I decided to apply for the role because of my previous nursing background back in the Philippines, where I was born and brought up.
L&L How long have you worked in aged care?
ZG I have worked in aged care for over 15 years, and have been with Hall & Prior since January 2009. It was hard to begin with because I had a young child at the time, but because of my determination, I stayed and as time went by, I was able to settle into and enjoy my job.
L&L Tell us about one part of your job that makes you feel rewarded and connected to those you work with?
ZG One part of my job that makes me feel really rewarded and connected to those I have cared for are when I hear the words ‘thank you’ from the a resident or family member. Hearing those simple words means that they trust and appreciate all the care and support myself and the rest of the team have shown them.
L&L What is the best piece of advice you ever got about working from others and from who?
ZG The best piece of advice I received about caring from others was to be kind and
respectful and always help others in need if you can. These were words told to be my late father.
L&L What is the best thing about working at an aged care home?
ZG The best thing about working at Hall & Prior is the support from management and workmates, especially during time when I may have been personally struggling.
L&L What have you learned about yourself while you’ve worked for Hall & Prior?
ZG I have learned a lot of things during my time working for Hall & Prior. I have learned to balance life between work and personal matters, and for those who I have cared for, I have learned to deal
and manage many different and sometimes challenging behaviours. This has allowed me to give them the best holistic care I can.
L&L How would others describe you?
ZG Sometimes my coworkers and residents might call me a crazy hard-working person!
L&L What qualities are required to make a great aged care worker in your opinion?
ZG I believe that the qualities that you need to make a great worker in aged care include being compassionate to others. It means you care.
The best piece of advice I received about caring from others was to be kind and respectful and always help others in need
If I was not a care worker ... I would be a nurse.
My favourite movie is ... any family-related drama.
My favorite type of music to listen to is ... mellow music.
When I’m not at work you will find me ... at home, spending time with my family.
Although a relative new member of the Montana Aged Care Home family in NSW, Beth Jimenez has worked in the aged care sector for the past 11 years, and it’s clear her passion lies firmly with looking after elders.
L&L What made you want to become an aged care worker?
BJ I have five reasons that made me pursue the field in aged care. The first is my personal connection and deepest influence with my grandparents who I was raised and grew up with, witnessing them as they aged and taking care of them when they got sick and until they’ve passed away was the greatest honour and accomplishment I had made in my entire life. Secondly, it is my desire to help make a difference through my empathy and compassion. Thirdly, finding career stability with diverse roles. Fourthly, for personal growth and satisfaction in fulfilment and learning, and finally, the societal impact through community service in addressing a need. This is
a profession that demands a lot but also offers immense rewards through the relationships I build and the difference I can make in the lives of the elderly and their families.
L&L What does an average day look like for you?
BJ An average day for me as a Lifestyle Officer is dynamic and fulfilling, it is tailored towards enhancing the quality of life for residents through social, recreational, and therapeutic activities. Here is what I outline from my morning routine towards the end of my shift.
I review the schedule, look over the day’s schedule to ensure all planned activities are appropriately set up and any necessary materials are available.
I engage with Residents, Morning is a great time to engage with residents, often starting with personalized greetings. It’s also an opportunity to remind and encourage them to participate in the day’s activities.
I then conduct the scheduled activities either I Lead or facilitate planned activities. These could range from exercise classes, art and craft sessions, music therapy, gardening, or cognitive games. Adjust activities as needed to accommodate residents’ abilities and interests.
I carry out one-on-one Interactions, I spend time with my residents who may not wish to participate in group activities. This could
involve reading to them, having a chat, listening to music together, or providing gentle reassurance and companionship.
I assist with meals, especially if needed. I also help facilitate mealtimes, ensuring residents make it to the dining area if they’re able to and have a pleasant dining experience. I may also provide company to those who require or request it.
I coordinate with Care Staff by communicating with them about any dietary restrictions or observations during mealtimes that may need to be addressed.
I constantly observe the residents for signs of enjoyment, engagement, discomfort, or distress. These observations are crucial for tailoring future activities and reporting to healthcare professionals.
Communication is also important, which is to Keep open lines of communication with other staff members, residents, and their families about the effectiveness of the lifestyle program and any concerns or suggestions.
Being a Lifestyle Officer in an aged care setting is immensely rewarding, requiring a mix of creativity, compassion, planning, and adaptability to meet the diverse needs and enhance the lives of the residents I serve.
L&L Tell us about one part of your job that makes you feel really rewarded and connected to those you work with?
BJ As a Lifestyle Officer, the core of my fulfilment stems from orchestrating wellness initiatives. This pivotal role allows me to design programs that not only enhance the physical well-being of those I work with but also nurture their mental and emotional health. The transformative journey from conceptualizing these wellness events to witnessing their positive impact is deeply rewarding. Crafting these initiatives involves understanding the unique needs and stressors of the community or organization, thereby creating a tailored approach to wellness. Whether it’s a series of mindfulness sessions, outdoor fitness challenges, or
nutrition workshops, the goal is to offer a holistic approach to health. The most gratifying moments arise when I see individuals embrace these wellness practices, leading to noticeable improvements in their energy levels, productivity, and overall happiness. Observing a shift in the workplace or community dynamics, where people become more supportive and engaged, reinforces the value of my work.
L&L What is the best piece of advice you ever got about working from others and from who?
BJ The best piece of advice I’ve ever received came from a senior mentor during the initial phase of my career: “The magic lies in seeing each individual as a universe of unique stories, interests, and aspirations.”
This piece of wisdom underscored the importance of empathy and personalisation in my role, setting the stage for my approach to lifestyle management. My mentor emphasized that while organisational skills are critical for planning events and activities, the most impactful aspect of our job lies in understanding and catering to the individual nuances of those we serve.
She encouraged the practice of active listening to capture the diverse interests, hobbies, and needs within the community or organisation. This insight fosters an atmosphere of inclusivity and respect, where each person feels
seen, heard, and engaged. Applying this advice, I always endeavour to see beyond the broad demographics or job titles, focusing instead on the unique human threads that weave the social fabric of the communities and organizations I serve.
L&L What is the best thing about working at an aged care home?
BJ The most rewarding aspect of being a Lifestyle Officer in an aged care home is the profound impact I have on enhancing the quality of life for my residents. I am not just organizing activities, but I am elevating spirits and nurturing a sense of community and belonging among individuals who may otherwise feel isolated.
The joy on residents’ faces during a successful event or the gratitude they express
for my daily efforts offers unparalleled job satisfaction for me. Forming deep and meaningful connections with residents, learning about their life stories, and tailoring activities to their individual preferences make my every day diverse and significant. By fostering a stimulating and enjoyable environment, I help provide the elderly with a sense of purpose and vigour. This role affords a unique blend of creativity, empathy, and personal growth, as I contribute to the final chapters of someone’s life story with care and dedication.
L&L What have you learned about yourself while you’ve worked for Hall & Prior?
BJ While working as a Lifestyle Officer for Hall & Prior, I’ve discovered a deeprooted passion for caring for and enriching the lives
of others. I’ve learned that I thrive in situations where creativity, people skills, and empathy come into play. I’ve been surprised by my own ability to adapt to diverse needs and situations, highlighting my resilience and flexibility. I’ve discovered that I’m an effective problem solver, able to balance client needs with available resources. Moreover, I’ve gained confidence in my ability to lead and inspire others within team settings, recognition of the importance of open communication, and a deep appreciation for the ongoing learning opportunities this role offers. In summary, this role has revealed my capacity for empathy, adaptability, leadership, and growth.
L&L How would others describe you?
BJ People often describe me as an empathetic and compassionate person, particularly suited to working in an aged care setting. They appreciate my patience, I never rush anyone and ensure everyone feels heard, valued, and respected. Observers comment on how I seem to understand the unique needs and emotions of individuals with different backgrounds and health conditions. Colleagues admire my nurturing spirit as I consistently strive to provide comfort, encouragement, and companionship. It’s often said that my attention to detail is remarkable, enabling me to identify even the slightest changes in the folks I serve and report appropriately. I believe in treating everyone with the
kindness and dignity they deserve. Above all, others appreciate my unwavering dedication to elderly care and how I continually seek ways to improve the quality of their life. Thus, my association in any aged care setting brings a soothing yet proficient and diligent presence.
L&L What qualities are required to make a great worker in your opinion?
BJ A great worker exudes a combination of dedication and agility, brandishing not only the technical prowess essential for their role but also a suite of interpersonal skills, their communication is clear and effective, ensuring team synergy, while their adaptability allows them to comfortably navigate the ever-shifting landscapes of modern industries. They thrive on collaboration, recognizing that collective effort often yields the best outcomes. An enterprising spirit pushes them to take the initiative and lead, undercut by a strong problem-solving acumen that turns obstacles into opportunities for growth.
Such individuals stand resilient in the face of setbacks, their moral compass unwavering as they build an atmosphere of trust. A fiery passion fuels their commitment to excellence, and their thirst for knowledge signals a perpetual evolution of capability. Above all, their orientation towards customer satisfaction aligns their endeavours with the broader objectives of the organization.
If I wasn’t an aged care support worker ...I would be a real estate agent and manager; helping hardworking people find the best property for their future retirement and managing and training aspiring agents who want to earn independently.
My favourite movie ... From Netflix, Virgin River.
My favourite song ... “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus, as it embodies the story of my life, a journey of ups and downs, that in achieving goals in life there is not a race that the rejection is just a redirection and that the delays were just a protection.
When I’m not at work, you’ll often find me ... Walking on the beach as I love the calm sound of the waves and the fresh air, or you may find me in a Zumba class as I love fitness dancing more than just exercise.
The Wellness Centre at Karingal Green is the perfect place to go if you’re looking at invigorating the whole body as you age.
Everybody’s ageing journey is different and physical abilities can vary from person to person. However, ageing well is possible for all when approached from a ‘whole body’ point of view. By taking part in gentle exercise and treatments with professionals assisting with your aims, your ageing journey can be
improved in terms of mind, body and soul.
The Wellness Centre at Karingal Green offers you the opportunity to have a professional assessment by a Physiotherapist who can suggest a personal plan for your ongoing health and wellbeing journey.
There are a variety of classes and sessions available to our community providing all levels of support with guidance and assistance where needed. The Wellness Centre also supports the residents in the award-winning Karingal Green Health & Aged Care Community. The beautifully designed Wellness Centre is open to all and offers specialist health and wellness
services to the local seniors’ community. Open five days a week, the High Wycombe Centre supports our community in all surrounding suburbs and is focused on an ongoing wellness approach, encouraging visitors to work on strengthening and maintaining their fitness levels.
Professional services provided include:
• Physiotherapy
• Hydrotherapy
• Gymnasium Classes
• Pilates
• Massage Services
The Wellness Centre has a large, heated swimming pool with regular hydrotherapy classes for seniors of all abilities, supporting pain management and mobility. Clients can use their Home Care Packages, NDIS funding and Private Health funding to contribute to costs at Karingal Green’s Wellness Centre - just ask our friendly staff for assistance and information with booking your assessment.
Come and join the Karingal Green Wellness community and start to enjoy a greater quality of life this autumn.
Call the Wellness Team on 0490 940 371
For more information, visit karingalgreenwellness.com.au
A fund-raising favourite was a delicious treat for all at Georges Estate in May.
Ever conscious of health and generosity, the team at Georges Estate in Penshurst, NSW, put together a wonderful Big Morning Tea for the residents and their families to show support to the Cancer Council’s ‘The Biggest Morning Tea’ campaign during May.
Celebrating on May 9 in the serene surroundings of the beautiful home’s Wellness Centre, the team were delighted to host special guests from Oatley public school, with an attending
senior teacher and some senior students who played the perfect guests and chatted happily to everyone present.
The wonderful turn out from local community organisations saw members from the District Singers Choir, members from Activist, members from St Declan’s Catholic Parish in Penshurst as well as some members from the Australian Gardening Club attend this lovely morning tea event. Everybody felt so blessed to have such wonderful
community support.
The food, prepared by the talented resident chef delivered a selection of gourmet sandwiches, homemade scones with jam and cream, homemade custard tarts, party pies, sausage Rolls and spinach and ricotta triangles.
“To date, we are very proud to have raised over $350 to donate to this very worthy cause, however our collection is still open, so drop by and
speak to AIN – Wellbeing staff if you would like to donate to the Cancer Council,” said Sarah Riach, Executive Director of Georges Estate.
Finally, what would a party be without music? For something different, everybody was entertained by the district singers who played ukuleles and sang the most wonderful melodies for the well-fed group.
It was a lovely morning enjoyed by all.
To date, we are very proud to have raised over $350 to donate to this very worthy cause,
Japanese delicacy (5)
Of first principles (10)
Mistrust (9)
Not a soul (2,3)
How astronauts in orbit feel (10)
Suspends (5)
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”.
N B E F L I E F 25 words: Good
words: Very good 45+ words: Excellent
2. What country’s name translates to ‘The Saviour’ in English? 3. What type of skating event was first added to the Winter Olympic Games in 1924?
4. Which video game was originally titled Puckman in Japan?
5. Which band had a hit with the 2009 song Little Lion Man?
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.
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. 68 2 164 278
Can you find all of the words listed below? The leftover letters will spell out a secret message. ADVOCATE AHPRA BLOODS CAREGIVER CLINIC COMMUNITY DEGREE EXAMS FORMULA HEALTH CARE
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.
Each number corresponds to a letter. Can you crack the code?
Can you work out what the missing letter is that spells an 8-letter word? It could read either clockwise or anti-clockwise.
JASON SUDEIKIS
1. What sport is Jason Sudeikis hired to coach in Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso?
A. Football
B. Baseball
C. Soccer
D. Fencing
2. What is Sudeikis’ real first name?
A. Christopher
B. Daniel
C. Jonathan
D. Jason
3. What television show did Sudeikis get his major break on?
A. The Late Show
B. The Daily Show
C. The Tonight Show
D. Saturday Night Live
4. In which movie did Sudeikis star in with Charlie Day and Jason Bateman?
A. Drinking Buddies
B. Horrible Bosses
C. Downsizing
D. We’re The Millers
5. What movie did Sudeikis star in that landed the entire cast a Golden Raspberry Award?
A. Movie 43
B. The Angry Birds Movie
C. Semi-Pro
D. The Campaign
Family is everything to Svenja Birkener, Senior HR Business Partner in Hall & Prior’s Head Office in Perth – as long as there’s easy access to some chocolate, coffee and brekkie all day long.
FAMILY, NEAR AND FAR: My husband and our two boys mean everything to me. I’m from Germany, he’s from France, and together, we bring different cultures, traditions, and languages into our home. Even though our families are far away in Europe and we miss them dearly, their influence is strong. We’re grateful for the chance to create our own family, even though we’re far from home.
SWIMMING: Since I was a child, swimming has been my greatest passion. I competed in Germany until I was 23. Now, it’s my way to unwind and stay fit. Swimming is more than just exercise to me; it’s like a peaceful retreat where I find comfort and calmness. Whether I’m racing or taking leisurely laps, the feeling of being in the water always brings me joy and a sense of freedom.
MY BOYS: Every day, my two boys, aged four and one, remind me of life’s true priorities. They have taught me to loosen up and go with the flow, which I have to be honest, is a mindset I’m working to apply in my professional life too. With all the chaos and mess, one thing for certain is that I have learned to embrace the title of Boy Mom.
THE BEACH: My favourite place is the beach. Whenever the sun shines, you’ll find me and my kids at the beach. It’s our favorite place to soak up the sun, play in the sand, and enjoy each other’s company.
BEER: As someone from Germany, I’ve been surrounded by a rich beer culture my whole life, which I truly treasure. My absolute favorite is the Kölsch from my hometown. There’s nothing I love more than returning home on a hot summer day and enjoying an ice-cold beer while watching the sunset.
CHOCOLATE ENTHUSIAST: Chocolate is my not-so-secret weapon for tackling the madness of work and the never-ending energy of my kids! By 2 to 3pm, I’ve mastered the art of recognising the signs - if I catch myself rummaging through my desk drawer like a chocolate-hungry squirrel (even though I know there’s nothing there), it’s a surefire sign that a trip to the shop is in order. It’s like my emergency fuel for saving the day!
TRAVEL ADVENTURES: Ah, the thrill of travel and adventure! It takes me back to my backpacking days, where each day brought a new and exciting experience. From navigating unfamiliar streets to testing my language skills (which were often less advanced than I’d hoped), every moment was a chance for discovery and growth. Travelling fuels my wanderlust and keeps me yearning for more adventures.
MEETING PEOPLE WHO INSPIRE ME WITH THEIR SPIRIT AND PASSION: even when they don’t realise it! Working in HR, I’m amazed by our employees’ diverse backgrounds and how caring they are. Hearing their unique stories and seeing their hard work reminds me why I love my job.
HOMETOWN OF COLOGNE: Cologne holds a special place in my heart, being the city where you grew up. The familiar streets, landmarks, and community make it a place of comfort and nostalgia. There’s something special about the bond we have with the places we call home, and Cologne will always be a part of my story.
Breakfast is like the superhero of meals, right? Croissants, dark bread, eggs- they’re my breakfast soulmates. Honestly, I’m all for turning breakfast into an all-day affair. Who says you can’t have pancakes for dinner? Count me in for breakfast any time of day.
Almond milk became my go-to during pregnancy, and now my daily pickme-up is an almond cappuccino from Atlas, the coffee shop next to our Mayfair Street office in Perth. It’s like a little taste of comfort and indulgence in the midst of a busy day!
9472 9488
