KnoxLife46 February 2024
FROM CARE PARTNER TO RN: ALEX NANAI'S WONDERFUL STORY OF PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT KNOX FACILITIES EXPAND, GET IMPROVEMENTS & GET NOTICED! MEET SUPER VOLUNTEER DEZLEY RESIDENT'S SPRING AND SUMMER ACTIVITY EXCITEMENT KNOX HOME TRUSTEE CHANGES
Too busy living “Smell the sea and feel the sky. Let your soul and spirit fly” VAN MORRISON
Jill Woodward CEO
It’s been a long time since the last midwinter newsletter and a great deal has been progressed over those months.
Fourth CAP intake begins Two further CAP (overseas trained Registered Nurse Competency Assessment Programmes) have been completed and we are pleased to report this has added another 65 Registered Nurses to the New Zealand/Australian workforce. The first of four CAP courses for 2024 commenced in January and has 29 attendees undertaking two weeks theoretical work and five weeks in the Knox homes alongside a Knox Registered Nurse.
Puka Home wins award Last August, Knox was awarded the NZACA “Spaceworks Environment Award”. This is national recognition for
the Puka Home project. Puka Home was opened two years ago and we immediately saw an improvement in outcomes over a range of quality indicators. Some of the improvement could be attributed to the building layout. Puka has also proven to be an example of a viable option for organisations needing to replace “standard” facilities. Rebuilding and replacing old buildings providing non-premium facilities in the aged care sector is not generally happening in New Zealand as the costs of building a conventional building make this non-bankable without an ability to charge premiums. There is a growing bed shortage nationally for “non-premium” residents. There is no public funding for any capital development in Aged Care. The Knox Home Trust Board has resolved
The Totara Home build is progressing very well.
to ensure we are doing as much as we can to address these shortages in our region.
New Totara Home closing in on July opening The new Totara Home is progressing well and is now at the gib-fixing stage and is able to be secured. The connection to the existing building and landscaping are the stages most visible to residents and visitors. Completion is likely mid-June with opening in July.
Nikau Home refurbishments completed
Puka Home residents love the easy access to outdoor socialising.
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In the latter half of 2023 the refurbishment of Nikau Home progressed and was completed in November. This included replacement of the three kitchens, stoves and flooring, repainting of living spaces, repairs to furniture and modification of sections of the roof. Residents, family and team accommodated the change in dining arrangements to enable this large project to be completed on time.
Visitor information Recently we have experienced a further surge in COVID cases. It is essential you do not visit Knox at all if you or a member of your household has any cold-like or gastroenteritis symptoms as we must be meticulously careful about all infections. Visiting Hours: 10am – 11:30am and 2pm – 8pm We urge visitors to observe these times as we are all committed to honouring the request made by residents for a quiet period in the middle of the day to rest after lunch. Wishing you well and I look forward to meeting many family members at our March meeting.
Knox Resident Ball swings back In November we also held the Knox Resident Ball. This is usually an annual event however this has been impacted over the past years by COVID, so it was lovely to get together as a community to celebrate better times. Take a look on pages 10 and 11.
35 New Eden Associates In September we ran Eden Associate training for 35 team members. This is three days exploration of the Eden Alternative and is essential in our Eden journey. It was great to have resident, Claire Read also attend and complete training.
Next Knox Community Meeting - 4 March
Knox Ball: Let's dance!
We have scheduled a Knox Community Meeting, held to keep people updated on things of interest.
Stay in touch
This will be held on Monday 4 March 5:30pm – 6:30pm in the Multipurpose Room at Knox.
Remember to like, follow us and SHARE on Facebook and Instagram to see what is happening at Knox; it’s where you’ll find photos and stories about loved ones. 46 | 3
KNOX BOARD NEWS KNOX TEAM
Changes to Knox Home Trust Board We have farewelled Warwick Peacock from the Board, after 32 years of committed and valuable service to governance at Knox. Warwick spent many years as Chairman and latterly Chaired the Finance Sub Committee.
Anthony Mitchelson, Accountant has been appointed to the Board in the finance role, with 20 years experience across a diverse range of commercial settings his contribution will be extremely valuable. Anthony has also served for 20 years in the Territorial and Regular NZ Army.
Kennet Wedel: Student Intern from Sosu Nord University, Denmark Kennet, arrived at Knox in late January having travelled all the way from his hometown in Aalborg, Denmark where he is studying to become a Certified Nurse Assistant. When he is not busy studying Kennet enjoys outdoor sports, particularly paddle tennis and running. Kennet will be spending eight weeks with us here at Knox, gaining practical experience in care in a different country. He is finding the weather rather warm, but is enjoying meeting new people and appreciates the friendliness and warm welcome he has received. After Kennet has gained his Nurse Assistant qualification he hopes to continue his study to gain nursing registration. 4 | here for each other
Marika EastwickField, a commercial litigation partner at Russell McVeagh has also resigned after almost seven years as a Knox Trustee. Marika has provided immense support to Knox and had continued the tradition of Russell McVeagh having for many decades a partner supporting the governance structure of Knox.
Reaching beyond
Continuation of this support has seen Emma Peterson, Solicitor appointed as a Knox Trustee. After a number of years working in London and Hong Kong, Emma returned to Russell McVeagh in the Litigation team, specialising in employment law and health and safety, becoming a Partner in 2021.
Eight or nine years ago Alex Nanai was so taken by what he saw when he made his daily walk past Knox Home that he made the decision to apply for a job here. At the time, Alex was a Health Care Assistant working at another aged care provider in the area. So how did a young New Zealand-born Samoan man become a Registered Nurse at Elizabeth Knox Home & Hospital?
Big family life Alex was child number seven in an eleven-child family born to a tenacious couple of parents who both worked two jobs to feed and house their large family. He knew from an early age that his parents made big sacrifices for his brothers and sisters and, even as a “good college student”, Alex left school at age 16 to work to contribute to the family.
A walk to the bus changed everything Every time Alex walked past Knox Home he sensed a difference in the demeanour of its residents. They were out and about and appeared happy and relaxed. He figured there was something different going on at Knox than where he was working. “I liked the feeling and applied for some night shifts at Knox,” said Alex. Alex was working two jobs. Day shifts for his original aged care home and for Knox on selected nights. It became clear to Alex that there were indeed differences between the two homes and he made the call to work exclusively at Knox in 2016. “There was time to engage with residents and have more flexibility than the institutional approach I had experienced. For example, we could keep a meal for a resident who was coming home later. At my former workplace there were rules and regulations. Knox remembers that it is the resident’s home. This was all part of what I came to learn later in the Eden Alternative.” Alex completed Eden Alternative training and flourished as a Care Partner. He enjoyed his work and others noticed.
Going places
Alex began his Health Care Assistant role in aged care at the then Sprott House in Wellington caring for elders with dementia, completing a Nurse Aid course in 2009. A pivotal moment came in Alex’s life when his Nan she fell ill. He left Sprott to care for her while working casual shifts at Wellington Hospital to maintain an income. This was a challenging cultural departure for his family. Males do not generally care for elders in Samoan culture, but Alex knew that it would save her from going into an aged care home. There’s little doubt that this experience contributed to a growing understanding of elder care. In time, Nan passed away and Alex moved from his city of birth to be close to his only son who had moved to Auckland with his mother, Alex’s former wife.
“He’s a hard worker. We could see how effective Alex was in his role and kept a keen eye on his progress. It was obvious that he had an intuitive gift for caring and giving. In 2019, Alex was promoted to our Care Partner Guide. I felt his ability was something to be shared with the Knox team,” said Knox CEO Jill Woodward. “We recognised his capability and potential.” Over time, Alex felt that he could do something more with his career and applied to become an Enrolled Nurse on an 18-month course. The MIT Head of School challenged him to consider the three-year Registered Nurse degree. Despite his excitement at the prospect of becoming an RN, Alex was concerned that he couldn’t afford to finance the degree and take that much time off paid employment. After all, he had a son’s private-school education to contribute to.
week employment to make it happen. Alex moved closer to MIT at Manukau City and started full time study. The rest is now history. Alex sat the state final nursing exams in November last year and began working full time as a Registered Nurse at Knox Home on 27 December 2023. “I’m very grateful to Jill and Margaret. They are my role models,” said Alex.
A sound philosophy can make the difference “The Eden Alternative has been a big eye-opener. I’m able to nurse by finding the rhythm of the residents in their home. It’s a true type of care. During my training and in placements, my experience with the Eden Alternative meant that I challenged ideas being taught around routine and individualism.” Alex recalled a student placement at Middlemore’s rehabilitation ward during the COVID period. “The rehab ward was packed with mainly stroke and cardiac patients of diverse cultural backgrounds. The curtains were up around the four beds and no-one was interacting so I took in a small music speaker and played island music. Well, the next time I was in the room there was dancing and laughter. I was asked to bring it in every day,” said Alex. “I try to give to those in need, like stroke victims – a hand to relearn how to make a cup of tea for example. These things just take a little time.” “I’ve learned that our residents are just like me. They have had former lives and previous experiences. The human experience is common to us all. They are just older. These relationships and friendships along the way are so important. I love it here. It’s awesome being here!” It’s fair to say the Knox loves you being here too. We’re proud of the developmental journey you’ve taken and the same quiet, yet tenacious way you approach your work – no doubt in much the same way Mum and Dad showed you. Congratulations Alex!
Knox’s Jill and Margaret Brown felt the opportunity for both Alex and Knox was too great to let slip away and offered financial support and two nights per 46 | 5
Who doesn't love summertime? We have been at the beach this summer! Nothing beats a beautiful warm day by the ocean, sand between your toes, a dip in the ocean and a cold drink. A group of residents had a wonderful time down at St Heliers, supported to embrace the kiwi summer.
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Action stations! A variety of activities take place in the homes daily. The team support creativity, connection, and transformation for residents living. A few examples are bean bag toss, table bobs, bowls, board games, movement and music, art projects, baking, gardening, karaoke, movies, floral arranging, poetry reading, Vintage Kids visits and more.
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Christmas cheers! What a beautiful start it was to both summer and the Christmas period. Residents were busy decorating Christmas trees, sharing traditions, baking Christmas cakes and shopping sprees. The joyful atmosphere was enhanced by the popular carols and singing along with the 'Celebration Choir'. Residents also celebrated the past year of ESOL sessions with Epsom Library and the wider community. DIO students gifted Knox residents with handmade Christmas cards, each containing a special Christmas wish from a student. Residents gathered around the tree to read their wishes aloud, bringing joy to everyone. Christmas Day saw residents celebrating with drinks and a traditional lunch which was a memorable festive occasion.
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Making time with Dezley
We met Dezley recently when Jill was at NZME voicing the latest Knox radio commercial. She was excited to meet Jill and to express her love of time spent volunteering at Knox. We just had to introduce Dezley to those who don't know her already. She's a real treat and what a fantastic desk of memorabilia!
Tell us a little bit about yourself... I'm a mum of two girls, Caitlin, 26 and Amelia, 20. I have a Japanese Spitz called Yoshi (which in Japanese means "proud son") I'm also mum to two Munchin cats, Lois (because she is "low") and Mr Perkins. I work as a Creative Writer at New Zealand Media and Entertainment, writing radio commercials. I voice some too! I love my job. Every day is different and I get to meet lots of interesting people – sometimes famous ones!
How long have you been volunteering at Knox? I've been a volunteer at Elizabeth Knox for two years.
I come every Saturday from 10 till 3. In the two years I've been a volunteer, I've only missed two Saturdays! Both because of Covid. I LOVE it!
What volunteer activities do you mostly engage in? I hang out with my dear friends at Kawakawa Home and I'm as happy to see them every week as they are to see me. I set the tables for lunch, hand out meals, do dishes and then spend the rest of the afternoon catching up with the residents. We go for walks, do jigsaws; they love having their nails painted (the men not so much); we play music, have sing-a-longs and enjoy each other's company. It's the highlight of my week – it really is!
What inspires you to be a Knox volunteer? I have a genuine love for the elderly. Volunteering at Elizabeth Knox gives me a sense of purpose. I find fulfilment in helping others and making a difference in people's lives. Volunteering gives me an opportunity to contribute to
the wellbeing and happiness of the residents who really benefit from the companionship. I love listening to their stories. From them I gain such valuable insights into life. Volunteering at Elizabeth Knox allows me to celebrate and honour the lives of our elderly. It also helps me develop my skills in patience, empathy, communication and "active" listening. For me, it's about making a positive impact. It's about being there! Dezley, we can't thank you enough for your incredible commitment to volunteering. You really do make a difference to the lives of Kawakawa residents and team members.
New volunteers always welcome Members of our wider community are always welcome to join our Volunteer Team. Just like our volunteers, the opportunities are diverse and interesting and can be tailored to suit your interests and availability. Contact us today to have a chat. volunteer@knox.co.nz 46 | 9
Co-Create Aging Research
We had our say During the election period Knox residents were visited by National, ACT, NZ First and Labour Party representatives. And then off to the Voting stations we went.
Father’s Day Celebrations In September, we celebrated Father’s Day. A guy’s afternoon was planned with beer, soft drinks, pizza, and chips. We kicked off with the food and ended the afternoon with table tennis, darts and a game of cards.
Show Biz From opera shows to art exhibitions, residents have seen it all! The Ancient Egypt Exhibition trip was fantastic chance to delve deeper into what life was like during that period.
We had the privilege of attending the inaugural Co-Create Ageing Forum, organised by the Centre for Co-Created Ageing Research at The University of Auckland. This initiative aims to enhance the health, wellbeing, and overall quality of life for older individuals. The Forum provided a platform for residents to actively participate in shaping the research agenda and address significant challenges associated with ageing. The second session was held at The University of Auckland and featured a range of speakers, including the Age Commissioner, designers and other healthcare providers. Smaller groups were formed to brainstorm and identify key areas of focus. Residents emphasised the power of their strong connection with the community and the exceptional care provided to one another. They proudly highlighted the positive impact that regular social activities, confidence-building initiatives, and exercise have on their daily lives. The Forum and active involvement of residents have undeniably fostered a sense of empowerment and instigated positive change. Knox look forward to our continued involvement for 2024.
2023 Annual Ball:
How do you say hello?
The Knox Ball was a truly memorable event, filled with energy and fun. The theme "How do you say hello?" resonated strongly with our diverse team. Despite the challenges and restrictions of the past few years, it was a night for the community, team and Home to come together to celebrate. We would like to give a special mention to our catering team, Cibus, who provided a wide variety of finger foods from countries all around the world, as well as drinks. The dance floor was alive with energy, and the "Rock out Band" played everyone's favourite hits, ensuring a night of dancing, and singing. We are grateful to the family, friends, and team members who contributed to making this night so beautiful. Our appreciation also goes out to the volunteers who helped make the event a success. We look forward to many more enjoyable nights like this in the future, and hope to see you there!
Set your NZ nursing career on track Nursing Councilapproved CAP programmes APRIL, AUGUST & OCTOBER ‘24 CARING COMMUNITY
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We're looking for stroke support volunteers The Volunteer Stroke Support (VSS) team are looking for volunteers to support residents living at Knox Home who have communication impairments caused by stroke. Preferably fluent in English, VSS will provide full training on how to encourage our residents affected to engage in social communication with others. If you think you would be interested to expand your skills, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Mary Rennison on Extension 7719 or email volunteer@knox.co.nz
The Eden Alternative 10 Principles 1. The three plagues of loneliness, helplessness, and boredom account for the bulk of suffering among our Elders. 2. An Elder-centred community commits to creating a human habitat where life revolves around close and continuing contact with people of all ages and abilities, as well as plants and animals. It is these relationships that provide the young and old alike, with a pathway to a life worth living. 3. Loving companionship is the antidote to loneliness. Elders deserve easy access to human and animal companionship. 4. An Elder-centred community creates opportunity to give as well as receive care. This is the antidote to helplessness. 5. An Elder-centred community imbues daily life with variety and spontaneity by creating an environment in which unexpected and unpredictable interactions and happenings can take place. This is the antidote to boredom. 6. Meaningless activity corrodes the human spirit. The opportunity to do things that we find meaningful is essential to human health. 7. Medical treatment should be the servant of genuine human caring, never its master. 8. An Elder-centred community honours its Elders by de-emphasising top-down bureaucratic authority, seeking instead to place the maximum possible decision-making authority into the hands of the Elders or into the hands of those closest to them.
Stay in touch
9. Creating an Elder-centred community is a never-ending process. Human growth must never be separated from human life. 10. Wise leadership is the lifeblood of any struggle against the three plagues. For it, there can be no substitute.
Knox Home Trust Board Members
The core concept of the Eden Alternative™ is simple: Care environments are habitats for human beings that should promote health, wellbeing and growth rather than facilities where the frail and elderly stagnate and decline.
Dr Alastair MacCormick (Chair) Dr Bruce Foggo Mr Bal Matheson (DEPUTY CHAIR) Mr Anthony Mitchelson Ms Emma Peterson Mr Andrew Smith Ms Vanessa Stoddart Ms Kim Wright
The Eden Alternative™ shows us how companion animals, children and plants help in providing an opportunity for meaningful contribution and care, and how the Eden Alternative works at preventing and eliminating the aged care plagues of loneliness, helplessness and boredom. For more information on the Eden Alternative, please visit edenalt.org
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10 Ranfurly Road Epsom Auckland 1023 Telephone 09 523 3119
knox.co.nz
Knox Hair Salon: More opportunities for a better life here ... or less if you prefer.
Knox Home Trust Not-for-Profit Charity GIVING MORE SINCE 1911