HVC Community News June 2014 by Hunter Valley Care

HUNTER VALLEY CARE

COMMUNITY NEWS June 2014

Activities Calendars Inside

News from May

Four New Profiles

Editorial Hello and welcome to another edition of Hunter Valley Care’s Community News. We’ve finally reached June, the midpoint of the year, which also means that winter has arrived as well! Luckily enough, for the last month or so we’ve been getting some beautiful weather, as you’ll see in some of our photos this month – our residents have been on some lovely outings. Also in this issue, you’ll find an inside look at two recent fun-filled theme days: Polynesian Day at Fig Tree Point and Rock ‘n Roll Day at Amaroo. We also have a sneak peek at the goings-on of the hairdressing salon at Waterview! Overall, there’s plenty of great photo recaps of what our residents have been up to lately – why not see if you can spot some people you know (or even yourself!) in the pics! This month, you’ll be introduced to some more lively and interesting residents: Jean Suñol of Fig Tree Point and Father Ron Pickin of Amaroo. You’ll also meet Maureen Bennett, one of Waterview’s most wellloved AINs, as well as Jean Jacques, a wonderful behind-the-scenes volunteer at Amaroo who has a strong family connection to the facility. Once again, we’re so pleased to be able to get to know these members of our community better – our staff and residents are what make Hunter Valley Care the great community that it is.

About us Hunter Valley Care COMMUNITY NEWS is a monthly newsletter published by the Hunter Valley Care Family to promote communication with our residents, their families, our staff and the wider community. For more information contact Kate Austen: kate@hvcare.com.au Claire Bradshaw: claire@hvcare.com.au

On the cover Eleanore Emmerson from Fig Tree Point on a bus trip to the Japanese Gardens at Gosford.

We hope you enjoy this month’s magazine. Please remember to pass a copy on to as many family members or friends as you like! Hunter Valley Care strives to set the future direction for life choices in the Hunter region. We actively seek feedback from residents in our care as well as their families; this is a fundamental element that drives ongoing improvement to the quality of the services we offer.

Have you clicked ‘Like’ on the Hunter Valley Care Facebook page yet? If not, head over and do so today to get HVC pics, news and updates in your feed! Visit www.facebook.com/HunterValleyCare and help us build up our online community.

For feedback contact us: Head Office Street: 78 York Street, Teralba NSW 2284  Post: PO Box 3310 Glendale NSW 2285  Phone: (02) 4955 6400 Fax: (02) 4955 6411  Email: info@huntervalleycare.com.au

HVC Resident Profile

Fr Ronald Pickin Fr Ronald Pickin from Amaroo was not always as devoted to the Church as he is today. In fact, he didn’t ever go to mass until he was 18. This is perhaps an unusual start for one about to celebrate his 50th anniversary of ordination into the priesthood! Born the only son of a Welsh migrant mother and Novocastrian father, Ron and his younger sister grew up in Mayfield East, where Ron attended the local public school. In year six Ron tried Tighes Hill Catholic School for a week, but decided it wasn’t for him when they didn’t get the half-day holiday for Empire Day! He went on to obtain his intermediate certificate at Newcastle Technical High. At the insistence of his mother, Ron also studied piano. (Being Welsh, music was in his blood: his Welsh grandfather was a great singer, and from all accounts Ron is quite talented himself.) However, as far as Ron knew his mother never played anything herself. It was not until much later on, when Ron was close to 50 years old that he witnessed his mother seat herself down at a piano and play like it was something she did everyday! He was astonished at this secret talent, and yet, perhaps out of respect for her privacy, he never asked her a word about it! Upon leaving school, Ron joined the Postmaster

General’s Department and trained as a telegraphist. He was to work in this field for around six years, including a short stint as a RAAF Telecommunications Officer for his National Service. It was during his time in Canberra that Ron noticed a bunch of officers clambering aboard a bus headed for Church, and opted to join them. He’s been attending mass ever since! In his mid twenties Rod decided that despite his misgivings as a schoolboy, the Catholic way of life was indeed his calling! He obtained his Leaving Certificate and began training to become a Priest. Ron speaks fondly of his time at the seminaries - three years in the bush at Springwood, and another four on the cliffs above Manly. Among many other things Ron was to learn Latin, Italian and Greek - although according to him languages were not always his strong point! After his ordination in 1964 by Bishop Toohey, Fr Ron went on to enjoy a diversity of roles with the Church such as Music Teacher, Hospital Chaplain, Military Chaplain, Police Chaplain and Religious Presenter on NBN3. He has been to China five times, and of course worked as an Assistant Priest and later on Parish Priest. His last parish was Beresfield, where he stayed for 18 years. Fr Ron has split his head open, had cancer twice,

been bowled-over by a car, and has recently acquired peripheral neuropathy, leaving him unable to walk or play the piano. However, he takes it all with considerable good grace. He has a lovely smile that lights up his whole face, and some very funny stories featuring numerous eccentric characters - all of whom he’s very fond! After finally convincing everyone he was ready to retire, Fr Ron came to live at Amaroo five years ago, and loves it. He has many visitors, including his younger sister Janice and assorted colleagues. He tells me they are planning his Golden Jubilee celebrations this July, and while he seems rather embarrassed at the prospect of a party in his honour, I imagine he will take it with his characteristic good grace smiling his lovely, quiet smile throughout. Hunter Valley Care gained a real asset the day Fr Ron decided to call Amaroo home!

HVC Volunteer Profile

Jean Jacques our Charlestown facility. Her own mother was a resident there; her daughter, Trudy, is Amaroo’s Activities Officer; and her granddaughter, Teearni, is an Assistant Activities Officer.

In every organisation, there are people who work entirely behind the scenes. Quiet and rarely spotted, they do not seek any recognition, remuneration or reward for their efforts. At Hunter Valley Care, volunteer Jean Jacques is one of these people. For the past eight years, Jean has been volunteering for Amaroo. Having lived in the Dudley area all her life, Jean has a particular community and family connection with

You may ask what exactly a ‘behind-the-scenes’ volunteer does. Well, have you ever wondered who prepares the individual lolly bags for Amaroo’s lolly stall? Who bakes cakes, slices and other sweet treats for all the high teas? Who prepares the little gifts given to residents on special occasions? Who helps set up and prepare for events such as Christmas parties and fêtes? You guessed it – all these tasks are undertaken by Jean. Trudy and Teearni usually take all the necessary bits and pieces back to Jean’s place so she can work on projects from home. Some tasks are simply second nature to Jean, such as knitting decorative coat-hangers, whereas others

Cooking up a storm Move over, MasterChef contestants – it looks like we have some avid foodies of our own at Fig Tree Point! Once a month a small group of keen cooks gather together to create some delicious nonbake treats. Not only do the participating residents get to have some fun with food, they also enjoy sharing their creations with other residents for snacks and afternoon teas! It’s a win-win situation all round – and a tasty one at that! 4

are quite time-consuming – especially putting together the lolly stall bags. An equal amount of lollies must go into each bag, so Jean has had to work out a system to ensure exactly how many of each lolly type to distribute! The picture of altruism, Jean asks for no special praise for the hours of time and effort she has expended for the good of Amaroo and its residents. Preferring to remain ‘under the radar’, she is content with the feeling of giving something back to the community that cared for her mother and developed such strong ties with her family. Hunter Valley Care is truly privileged to have such a wonderfully generous volunteer in our community, and while we know she seeks no recognition, we would like to take this opportunity to offer our sincere gratitude and appreciation for everything Jean does.

HVC Resident Profile

Jean Suñol What’s more interesting than someone who has lived a life full of intriguing experiences and places? The answer is – someone who is willing to tell you all about it! Jean Suñol, resident of Fig Tree Point, is just such a person. Jean was born in Parramatta, where she was brought up for two years before moving to Stroud. Her grandfather owned a farm there, which Jean’s father took care of during the war. A self-confessed ‘country girl’, Jean fondly recalls spending many a school holiday in the company of her grandfather, who would tell her stories about surrounding countryside that he had learned from indigenous people of the area. Jean remembers thinking these Dreamtime stories were simply fairytales, until she began to identify the real landmarks and places mentioned in the stories! In 1956, Jean married a Spanish man (which, she recalls, her mother wasn’t sure about at first!). Salvidor, better known as ‘Jack’, was born in Australia, but until he first went to school, he only spoke Spanish. Having a husband with such a rich cultural background and family overseas, it’s not a surprise that Jean has travelled widely throughout her

life. Of course, she has visited the home city of Jack’s family, Catalonia, as well as other parts of Spain; she has also been throughout Europe, including France, Norway, Italy, England, Germany, Holland and Belgium. Other destinations have included America (‘but I like Australian ways much better than American ones,’ she says), the south of China, and the Pacific, including Fiji and Vanuatu. ‘I’ve pretty much been around the world!’ Jean sums up – and doesn’t she have some stories to tell about her adventures! One thing in particular she recalls about communicating with people in different countries was that she was often mistaken to have Scandinavian heritage due to her appearance. Foreigners she met were shocked to learn that she and both of her parents were born-and-bred Australians! Of course, there is some foreign heritage in Jean’s blood: her grandfather married an Irishwoman, and she believes that her lineage may even be traced back to Daniel O’Connell, an important 19th century Irish political leader. As for Jean’s immediate family, she has five children and several grandchildren – a few of whom

are involved in the maritime side of things: she has a son in Cairns who is a sailor, and a grandson who is a midshipman in the Navy. Jean has lived at Fig Tree Point for about ten years now. She enjoys life at the tranquil lakeside home, particularly appreciating activities such as art therapy and anything involving music. Jack had lived at Fig Tree for a few years before Jean joined him; while he passed away in 2006, Jean’s fondness for her husband is still evident as she reminisces about their life together. A friendly and chatty character, Jean is great to talk to over a cup of tea. We’re happy to have such a lively and interesting resident in our community, and we’re sure Jean’s friends at Fig Tree are as well!

The Importance of Fluid Restrictions Sometimes residents with certain medical conditions are placed on fluid restrictions, meaning they can only have a certain amount of fluids each day. Ignoring these restrictions can lead to swelling and discomfort, increased blood pressure, or medical complications requiring hospitalisation. It may even endanger their lives.

If you are visiting a resident on fluid restrictions, please check with a nurse before offering them any food or drinks. Likewise if they feel thirsty, it is important to tell a nurse. There are several methods that can be used to help take the edge off their thirst, such as nibbling on lemon wedges and sucking on ice cubes. 5

HVC Staff Profile

Maureen Barnett seriously, and were tossed out of the nurses home! Not one to be told what to do, on Australia Day 1963, Maureen got married, left Wallsend and went to work for a small nursing home in Booragul. This was her first foray into aged care, a field she would keep returning to.

At Waterview, when you follow the sounds of cheeky banter and buoyant chitchat, eventually you find AIN Maureen ‘Ma’ Barnett - eyes twinkling with mischief, measuring out medications and good-humoured common sense in equal doses! Maureen started her nursing training at Wallsend Hospital in 1957. She was just 16 ½ and as per the requirements of the time, went to live in the nurses home. In those days the training was extremely disciplined - ‘not like today’ she says. You had to dress appropriately and obey their rules to the letter. Even after work! In fact if the Wallsend nurses did anything frivolous (for example, get married) they were obviously not going to take their nursing

Trivia Corner

Since that time, Maureen has worked at Morisset Hospital, where she loved the work, the place and the people, and John Hunter where she spent 14 years working in Area Health. An encounter with mumps as a child left Maureen unable to have biological children. Undeterred, she and her husband went on to adopt two of the ‘most perfect’ children in the world – Craig and Bronwyn. Maureen is intensely proud of her two children and the wonderful adults they have grown into. Now with children of their own, Maureen can’t stop praising them, and believes they are outstanding parents. As for her five grandchildren, I am left to wonder if teenagers could possibly be as perfect as she describes! However, one thing is for certain - they couldn’t be loved more. In her spare time Maureen enjoys travelling, particularly to Singapore, where she has been visiting for over 20 years.

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When I ask Maureen what she likes about aged care she says she just loves it! She is a wee bit talkative, and genuinely loves chatting with all the residents on her rounds as Medications Nurse. She is also in constant demand for her services as a Justice of the Peace! Although these days Maureen only works part-time, she still goes above and beyond her duties. She spends much of her own time running errands for residents who can’t get out themselves. Her nickname ‘Ma’ is indicative of her caring nature and willingness to look after everyone. In a very practical sense, Maureen recognizes aged care as vitally important, and is a little concerned about the path the current government seems to be taking on this issue. She recently joked to some residents that she might run for Prime Minister - ‘I couldn’t do any worse!’ In fact, with bucket-loads of oldfashioned common sense, an upbeat attitude and energetic appreciation of discipline and work ethics, I think she could do quite well! Considering she is 72 this month, doesn’t look or act her age, and is unlikely to slow down any time soon, perhaps a dose of ‘Maureen’ is just what this country’s politicians need!

What is the floral emblem of Australia? What is Australia’s largest inland city? What do the letters of the television network SBS stand for? Which bushranger did Sidney Nolan portray in a series of paintings he created in 1946-47? What was the name of the cyclone that devastated Darwin on Christmas Day 1974? What finished second to ‘Advance Australia Fair’ in the 1977 referendum to choose a national song? What natural disaster killed 13 people in Newcastle in 1989? 6

1 Golden Wattle 2 Canberra 3 Special Broadcasting Service 4 Ned Kelly 5 Cyclone Tracy 6 Waltzing Matilda 7 An earthquake

Answers:

Hunter Nature White Bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea Eagles are a common sight in the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie region. In fact - these large birds of prey are sometimes impossible to miss!

The juveniles are a mottled brown, and sometimes confused with young Osprey or Wedge-tailed Eagles. By four years they have their adult plumage and at six years old are fully mature. They may live up to thirty years. J Irvine

Sea Eagles are large birds with a wingspan of up to 2m. In flight they have bright white feathers on the head and belly, and grey and black under the wings. The back and wing covers are a beautiful soft, dark grey.

Found all around the Australian Coast, Whitebellied Sea Eagles build large stick nests and breed in monogamous pairs that mate for life. They have a distinctive honking call, heard particularly in the breeding season.

In Lake Macquarie, Sea Eagles feed mainly on fish. The shore line between Warners Bay and Speers Point is a great place for spotting them in action, and they can often be seen carrying their surprisingly large catches back to the pine trees on the shore. For such large, wild birds, White-bellied Sea Eagles can co-exist with humans surprisingly well. Some might think a little too well - as it’s not unheard of for unwary fishermen to loose bait or even their catch to these clever birds!

What makes something ‘valuable?’ “Nowadays people know the price of everything, and the value of nothing.” Oscar Wilde’s immortal quote from The Picture of Dorian Gray, although written last century, now more than ever rings true. In modern societies, ‘value’ is synonymous with words like ‘finance’, ‘profit’ and ‘cost’. This leaves many issues with important social value - such as community well-being, poverty, education, homelessness and the environment - unaccounted for. It is increasingly believed that this won’t allow for the future of sustainable societies. It also makes it difficult for non-profit social or environmental enterprises to communicate their value (and thus attract investors) in a society that only values money. A new, internationally recognized accounting method, called Social Return On Investment (SROI) is attempting to address this issue by putting a financial value on business outcomes that do not have market values. Newcastle’s own Social Value Consulting (SVC) is proudly spearheading this movement in Australia. Currently working closely with groups like Soul Cafe and other not-for-profit organisations, SVC aims to understand an organisation’s social impact, measure it and communicate it to stakeholders. For more information on SVC or SROI visit: www.facebook.com/socialvalueconsulting www.thesroinetwork.org

Social Value Consulting in the process of interviewing a Soul Cafe client to help ascertain the ‘Social Value’ of their operation. 7

Polynesian Theme Day On Tuesday the 13th of May, residents and staff at Fig Tree Point really got into the spirit of this month’s theme day, which was all about celebrating Polynesian culture. A whole room was transformed into a little island oasis for the day by the staff, who were all decked out in proper attire: grass skirts abounded, with some even being fashioned from bin bags where actual grass was scarce! Residents looked the part as well, with everyone donning a colourful lei for the day. Entertainment was provided by Richard and Friends, who played some Maori songs for residents to listen and sing along to. A highlight of the concert was a performance of the traditional New Zealand dance, the Haka, which was a big hit! After entertainment, residents refreshed themselves by nibbling on coconut pieces and sipping coconut water before heading off to a traditional Polynesian lunch. A fun-filled day was had by all, and we’re certainly looking forward to seeing what’s next on the international agenda at Fig Tree!

Naala getting into the Polynesian spirit

Eleanore trying a coconut

Richard and Friends (Polynesian Entertainers)

Jennifer Campbell and Lee Bag gs enjoying the entertainment Richard and Friends

Upcoming Changes to Aged Care Policies In our December magazine, we gave you a preview of the upcoming aged care policy changes that were to be put in place in 2014. On the 1st of July, these changes will be implemented. To refresh your memory, we’ve provided a summary below. The ‘Living Longer, Living Better’ aged care reform package involves a comprehensive 10-year plan focussed on reshaping aged care – building a better, fairer and more consistent aged care system nationwide. Changes taking effect from July 1st include the following: • In regards to the payment of an accommodation bond, the distinction between low- and high-level residential care will be removed. Residents will have a choice between a lump-sum deposit, periodic payment scheme, or combination of the two. • Care recipients will be means tested to determine the financial contribution they need to make towards their aged care. • All residents, whether or not they have extra service status, will have the option to purchase additional services such as entertainment or lifestyle choices, for an extra fee. Apart from the final point above, our current residents will not be directly affected by the changes while their existing care continues. However, if a resident’s needs change (e.g. if a resident moves from low- to high-level care), they will be subject to the new arrangements. Those considering entry into a facility after 1st July especially will need to become familiar with the new processes and arrangements. For more information about the 2014 aged care reform and how it affects you, please visit www.livinglongerlivingbetter.gov.au 8

Farewell to Kimberley Last month Fig Tree Point residents and staff said a very reluctant goodbye to Activities Officer, Kimberley Frost. Kim came to Fig Tree Point nine years ago as an AIN and Medications Nurse. After five years she moved into the role of Activities Officer, and has been brightening the lives of residents ever since. Kim says it was a very hard decision to leave Fig Tree Point, and what she considers her family. However, she has thoroughly enjoyed her time, is thankful for the opportunities, and promises to be back to visit! Although she will be sorely missed, staff and residents wish her the best of luck in her new hometown of Wollongong, and hope she enjoys every success for the future.

support • emotional • spiritual • grief • personal • family There is no easy way around grief… it is the natural response to the loss of someone special. Likewise, major life events such as change of circumstance or illness can leave you distressed. Hunter Valley Care has Chaplains available for the support of residents and their families. Should you feel you need some help through these times, do not hesitate to contact a Chaplain.

Rev. Delma Geary 0412 684 698 Pastor Sue Jenkins 0422 086 760 chaplain@huntervalleycare.com.au

Kimberley and her dog Naala will be missed!

Domestic Violence there is always help Hunter Valley Care prides itself on operating environments where residents, staff and visitors can feel safe, supported and cared for. Unfortunately not everyone is lucky enough to have a home or workplace like that.

Remember when... Sam Hood www.vintage.es

Domestic and workplace violence can happen to anyone. In fact, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 33% of women above the age of 15 have experienced physical violence. Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, psychological, financial or sexual. If you or someone you know is suffering from any type of abuse the good news is - there’s lots of help available! Domestic Violence Advocacy Service (02) 8745 6999 or Freecall 1800 810 784 Witness Assistance Service (02) 9285 2502 or Freecall 1800 814 534 NSW Rape Crisis online counseling www.nswrapecrisis.com.au

...you learned how to swim?

Kids Helpline 24 hour phoneline 1800 551 800

Did anyone at HVC learn to swim with a tin-can strapped to their back? This boy is wearing an early floatation device (a tin can!) in a 1930’s learn-to-swim class at the Domain Baths in Sydney.

For more information talk to our chaplains, Delma or Sue, or pick up a pamphlet from the foyer in any of our HVC facilities.

Hairdresser at Waterview Every Tuesday the ladies and gents of Waterview can pop down to the salon (on the ground floor) for a cut, colour, perm, set or blow wave. Whether it’s the nice sunny room, the prospect of a new ‘do’, or the chance for a chin-wag with Deborah (who has been coming to Waterview for over eight years), there is always a line-up of residents out the door waiting to have their hair done. TOP: Dorothy Condon has been coming to Deborah for three years for her fortnightly cut and wet-set. BOTTOM: Nonie Nicol, still fabulous at 95, has a shampoo and blowdry, whilst Olive Cooper relaxes under the dome dryer.

A Japanese Gardens Outing On Monday 12th May, nursing home residents from Fig Tree Point went on a lovely outing to the Gosford/Edogawa Commemorative Garden. A gift to Gosford from its sister city of Edogawa, the beautiful Japanese garden complex was authentically designed in the style of the Heian period. It features meandering pathways, stone lanterns, a raked dry stone garden and ponds filled with koi fish. Residents had a wonderful day out exploring the tranquil and picturesque gardens, and also enjoyed browsing the Gosford Regional Gallery, which is part of the garden complex. Not only is the Commemorative Garden a beautiful and interesting venue, it’s also accessible for residents and free to enjoy! We think it’s safe to say this destination will hold a high place on HVC ‘must-visit’ lists in future.

ABOVE: Eleanore Emmerson and Kit McMullen enjoy the gardens. 10

ABOVE: Allan and Muriel pose for a happy snap

Rock-n’-Roll Theme Day at Amaroo Visitors from Biala Daycare joined Amaroo residents for a fun-filled Rock-n’Roll theme day in May. The rockin’ Adam Price entertained a crowd of 115 guests, who spent a lovely morning enjoying the candy bar, milkshake bar and some good old rock-n’-roll singing and swinging!

ABOVE: Teearni Jacques and Sue Oakley enjoy and dance and sing-a-long. TOP RIGHT: In true 50’s style a candy bar and milkshake bar was available for all to enjoy. MIDDLE RIGHT: Milkshakes and rock-n’-roll. A perfect match! Evon Younger, Nola Toms, Beryl Gleeson and Mary Cooksey. BOTTOM: Activities Officer Trudy Payten pulls Ray Taylor out of the crowd for a swing.

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Hunter Valley Care Contacts Amaroo Aged Care Facility  Street: 66 Dudley Road, Charlestown NSW 2290  Post: PO Box 3310 Glendale NSW 2285  Phone: (02) 4943 3675  Fax: (02) 4942 3075  Email: reception@amarooagedcare.com.au

The Sanctuary – Independence with Care  Street: 31 Tinglewood Close, Tingira Heights NSW 2290  Post: PO Box 3310 Glendale NSW 2285  Phone: (02) 4947 1010  Fax: (02) 4914 8704  Email: thesanctuary@huntervalleycare.com.au

Fig Tree Point Aged Care Facility  Street: 7 Harris Street, Toronto NSW 2283  Post: PO Box 3310 Glendale NSW 2285  Phone: (02) 4950 4133 Fax: (02) 4950 5078  Email: reception@figtreepoint.com.au

Waterview Aged Care Facility  Street: 16 Cumberland Street, Teralba NSW 2284  Post: PO Box 3310 Glendale NSW 2285  Phone: (02) 4941 7000  Fax: (02) 4958 5276  Email: ecm@waterviewagedcare.com.au

Star Pics

Residents, mums and bubs enjoy the new Playgroup facilities at Fig Tree Point

Edna Turton and Violet Funnell receive a special visitor on Mothers Day

Some lovely Amaroo ladies enjoying afternoon tea in the gorgeous late Autumn sunshine

Volunteers from Kiwanis Beachside-Newcastle Club visited Amaroo on Mothers Day with cards and flowers for the residents