ABOUT LIFE SUMMER 2013-14
• Celebrating our achievements at the 2013 Staff Awards • Welcoming new Board Directors • New better practice guidelines • Social richness of our cultural diversity • People and Places
Congratulations to to all Life Care Congratulations Care Award Awardfinalists finalists CustomerService Service Customer ExcellenceAward Award Excellence Zac Schofield- ABC - ABC Zac Schofield Lauren Burke ABC Lauren Burke - ABC Emma Paynter Emma Paynter- CORP - CORP Carley Awege - REY Carley Awege - REY Jackie Molloy - GRC JackieQuinn Molloy - GRC Sharon - CORP Sharon Quinn - CORP
Leadership Award Leadership Award Sharon Richardson - PRV Penny McCullough Sharon Richardson- GRC - PRV Cindy Graham - ABC Penny McCullough - GRC Isabella Hardie-Campbell - GRC Cindy Graham - ABC Wendy Du - PRV Isabella Hardie-Campbell Margie Fleming - CORP- GRC Wendy Du - -PRV Andrea Hanson REY Margie Fleming - CORP Andrea Hanson - REY
Team of theAward Team Excellence Year Award
Aldinga Building Team - ABC Residential Accounts Aldinga Building Team- -CORP ABC Enrolled Nurse Team - GRC Norman House Team - NH Life Care Active Team - LCA Reynella’s Got Talent - REY Community Team - LCAH Kitchen Team - GRC Norman House Team - NH Live EveryGot DayTalent Team -- RLC Reynella’s REY LifestyleKitchen & Hotel Team Services Team - GRC - PRV Live Every Day Team - RLC Lifestyle & Hotel Services Team - PRV Innovation Award Cleaning Team - PRV The Life Care Lasers - PRV Helen Cogzell - ABC Kitchen Team - RLC Jude Lowe - LCA Ree Poole - LCAH Mamta Sharma - GRC Sue Mark - ABC Chris Hudson - CORP
Innovation Award Life Care Way Award Helen Cogzell - ABC Jude Lowe - LCA Antonietta Lorenzutti - LCA Ree Poole - LCAH Damien - PROP MamtaPimlott Sharma - GRC Sue IndMark - ABC -C Sue - ABC Sarah Chris ThomasHudson -ABC CORP Daryl Mitchell - GRC NimaCare Janghorban PRV Life Way- Award Kiran Siran - PRV Elaine - RLC - LCA AntoniettaPink Lorenzutti Damien Pimlott - PROP Marie Noble - PRV Sue Ind ABC -C Sue Robertson - PRV Sarah ThomasABC Anna Beames - CORP Daryl Mitchell - GRC Nima Janghorban - PRV Kiran Siran - PRV Elaine Pink - RLC Marie Noble - PRV Sue Robertson - PRV Anna Beames - CORP
Thankyou youto toour oursponsors sponsors of of the 2013 Life Thank Life Care CareStaff StaffAwards AwardsNight Night
About Life is the official publication of the Churches of Christ Life Care Inc.
Corporate Services 263 Melbourne Street North Adelaide SA 5006 Telephone: 08 8239 9800 Facsimile: 08 8239 9850 www.lifecare.org.au
Our Mission: Our purpose is to partner with people to embrace life and live every day.
COVER The 2013 Life Care Staff Awards Night was a spectacular celebration of excellence and achievement. Three of the jubilant winners were Antonietta Lorenzutti (Life Care Way Award), Sharon Richardson (Leadership Award) and Helen Cogzell (Innovation Award). Full story and pictures inside.
CONTENTS CEO’s Report
Our Vision: Life Care is an innovative provider of quality services to the ageing. We are recognised as a preferred option for active ageing and an employer of choice for staff. This is achieved by an outstanding team working in a flexible and integrated approach with volunteers and partners.
Welcoming new Board Directors New better practice guidelines Life Care’s Cultural Mosaic celebrations 2013 Staff Awards Night Live Every Day the volunteer way Darren Jarman ‘revs’ up footy passion People and Places
REALISTIC, INNOVATIVE AND SUSTAINABLE CEO’s REPORT
Life Care’s Live Every Day Master Plan is an exciting and all-embracing roadmap for our future over the coming decade. It will provide a realistic, innovative and sustainable vision for Life Care as we respond to the growing and changing challenges of caring for older South Australians. The Master Plan, which will be presented to the Board Directors in mid-December for adoption in January 2014, aligns with the following five principles that underpin Life Care’s defining approach to aged care. 1. facilitating support services that give individuals choice of what they need, when and where, with
the expectation and assurance of being able, to the best of their ability, continue enjoying life; 2. pursuing innovation and continual improvement to reinforce our Live Every Day approach; 3. creating truly positive “ageing in place” experiences that are more than accessibility of services; 4. delivering our own customer focused service model promoting health, vitality and community connections through interdependence, and not just independence; and 5. celebrating what people can do by recognising that wellness is not just about health. The Master Plan is a whole-ofbusiness approach that will activate the biggest and most ambitious changes in Life Care’s proud 63-year history. It will evolve in a timely, strategic and seamless manner that people
Allen Candy
will recognise is about delivering services and facilities where and when they are needed most. Each of us in the Life Care community – residents, clients, management, staff and volunteers – are stakeholders in this important process, and the details of the Master Plan will be carefully communicated to ensure there is a shared approach to and pride in the way we develop our future. Norwood Plans A pivotal feature of the Master Plan involves development of the site of the former Residential Aged Care Facility at Norwood, a large property on three street frontages. Life Care’s purchase of this significant site will allow the development of new dimensions in retirement living and aged care with details to be announced in the New Year. Aldinga Beach Court
Three street frontages at the Norwood site
The $9 million expansion of Aldinga Beach Court is progressing on time and on budget with the first of the 35 new beds and services expected to be ready in March 2014.
VISION FOR THE COMING DECADE
Antonietta Lorenzutti receiving her award from John Stock OAM and Colleen Stallion from EPAC
Lauren Burke receiving her award from Life Care Director, Joanne Podoliak
I again acknowledge Residential Services Manager, Sue Mark, and her team for the smooth and efficient manner they have operated during the expansion, and thank residents and their families for their patience and support in the redevelopment period.
critical time as we work towards our strategic goals.
Staff Awards
Barbara served as a Director of Life Care for almost 30 years bringing broad experience and wisdom to the governance of our organisation. I wish Barbara and her husband, Barry, all the best in the future.
I congratulate all nominees and winners of Life Care’s 2013 Staff Awards presented at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre on Friday 29 November. Every person who participated in the awards – including those who nominated work colleagues, nominees themselves and all those who celebrated achievements on the night – showcase the skills, teamwork, pride and commitment to excellence that set Life Care apart. A full report on the awards, with photographs from a memorable night, is featured in this edition of About Life.
On behalf of the entire Life Care community, I also thank retiring Directors, Barbara Grear and Geoff Payne, for their outstanding contributions.
Geoff also provided valuable expertise in his two year term as a Director and I also wish him well in his new role as Chief Executive Officer of CareWorks, the agency of Churches of Christ in SA & NT that provides emergency assistance, financial counselling and support services to the disadvantaged. Cultural Mosaic This edition of About Life reports on the inaugural Cultural Mosaic Month in October.
New Directors I welcome Life Care’s new Board Directors – Jo Podoliak, Greg May and John Olson. They bring new strengths to the Board at a
A memorable event, it celebrated the wide cultural diversity of Life Care’s residents and clients, staff and volunteers representing more than 50 different countries of origin.
Australia has for decades been a broad multicultural society and this is increasingly reflected in aged care. This diversity of nationalities brings social richness to our organisation allowing us to share and enjoy the qualities that each person brings to our community and workplaces. I particularly thank Raelene Madden, Chair of the Lifestyle Network Group, and each of the Leisure and Lifestyle Coordinators for the enthusiasm they brought to Cultural Mosaic Month allowing staff, residents and their families to contribute to and participate in an inspiring series of events and activities. Season’s Greetings As we approach the end of another year, I thank you all for your commitment to and support of our achievements. I wish you a happy, refreshing and peaceful festive period and look forward to 2014 as each of us contributes to exciting new developments and milestones for Life Care. Allen Candy Chief Executive Officer
STRENGTHENING OUR BOARD WITH NEW We are very pleased that in November three new Directors joined the Board of Life Care, adding significant and relevant expertise. At the same time, two previous Directors retired. Barbara Grear had served on the Board of Life Care for almost thirty years, a huge service contribution. Geoff Payne, an ex-officio Director for the past two years, has taken on the role of CEO with CareWorks. Both of these Directors were representatives of the Churches of Christ. John Olson has filled the position vacated by Barbara Grear. John is Managing Director of HDS Australia Pty Ltd, a specialist civil engineering and project management consultancy practice. It provides services in traffic engineering, road design, road transport planning, wastewater engineering and municipal engineering. John is a Fellow of the Institution of Engineers Australia, a Chartered Professional Engineer and Engineering Executive. He is also a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Joanne Podoliak
The other two new Directors are Greg May and Joanne Podoliak. Greg May was a long-term partner with the Adelaide law firm Minter Ellison. He became a partner in July 1992, and was the firm’s Chairman from 2001 to 2007. Over the past few years he has been the firm’s Chief Operating Partner and General Counsel. In July 2013, Greg became a parttime consultant at Minter Ellison
Greg May
and also established his own practice – Greg May Legal and Governance. Apart from becoming a Life Care Board Director, Greg is also a member of our Property Development Committee. Joanne Podoliak has extensive Australian business experience in a range of industries including services, consumer goods, government and investment facilitation. She has worked in large and small businesses, and in both
Alan Young, John Olson, Greg May, Allen Candy, Rebecca Halkett, David Duncan, David Schwab Anne Lawson, Graeme Murley, John Stock OAM, Joanne Podoliak (Absent: Malcolm May)
DIRECTORS
EMBRACING NATIONAL PROGRAM OF BETTER PRACTICE IN AGED CARE Life Care has developed new guidelines for quality and consistent management of our residents who have experienced a fall and also those who have been hospitalised and then return to residential care. The project is part of the national Encouraging Better Practice in Aged Care (EBPAC) program.
John Olson
the public and private sectors. Joanne has strong experience in marketing, innovation and successful strategic planning for growth. Joanne is Director of her own consulting business, Better Ways Found. She has over 15 years’ experience, and holds a number of other Board Director roles in the notfor-profit sector. John said: “I am excited about the opportunity to serve Life Care as a Board Director.” Greg said: “In the short time I’ve been on the Board, I am already impressed with Life Care’s approach in all aspects of its business – whether in relation to the way it looks after its residents, the attitude of its staff, or its facilities.
The EBPAC initiative aims to encourage and support the uptake of evidence-based, person-centred better practice in Australian Government subsidised aged care services. A major focus of the program is on improving staff knowledge and skills and developing supporting resources. Life Care has partnered with the Queensland TAFE and the human resources specialist firm, Strategon, to develop the project entitled Enhancing Nurse Engagement to Improve Quality Resident Outcomes. Chris Hudson, Life Care’s Clinical Governance and Accreditation Manager, said the project included an extensive review of processes relating to resident falls and surveys among nursing staff and residents. The system review identified policies and procedures that could be improved with a series
of recommendations that will be implemented in pilot trials at Reynella Lodge and Aldinga Beach Court in January. Among the recommendations are improved verbal handover techniques between nursing staff shifts, an electronic checklist and a “team huddle” concept to better track the health and well-being of residents who have experienced falls. The pilot trials will be evaluated with a view to introducing the new system across all sites in May or June. In November, management staff from Corporate Services, Reynella Lodge and Aldinga Beach Court met at Bethsalem Care’s Happy Valley site for a presentation on the EBPAC program. Bethsalem is also a participant in the program. A further presentation on the trials and implementation of the new system will be made to managers and senior clinicians from all sites in February. Chris Hudson and Melissa Sweet, the project Team Leader and Mentor, thanked residents who had participated in the review process, and praised all nursing staff involved to date including Jodie Kretschmer, Clare Rutherford and Sarah Thomas (Aldinga Beach Court), Julie Munro, Jo Khoury and Renita Wait (Reynella Lodge).
“I am particularly excited about its vision as to the way in which aged care services should be provided in the future. I really look forward to contributing to Life Care fulfilling that vision.” Joanne added: “It is wonderful that Life Care has such a positive vision of helping our clients Live Every Day, an approach we can all aspire towards. I look forward to working with our collective team to achieve our objectives as we progress.”
Program participants (FROM LEFT) Chris Hudson, Sarah Thomas, Jo Khoury, Jodie Kretschmer, Clare Rutherford, Renita Wait, Julie Munro and Melissa Sweet
FIFTY FOUR COUNTRIES OF ORIGIN BRING
Flying flags of cultural celebration (from left, rear) Andrea Hanson, Wendy Charleson, Simon Kewell, Allen Candy, Michael Rasheed, Penny McCullough and Raelene Madden. (FRONT) Debra Craggs, Carole McHugh and Jenny Dinning Life Care’s residents, clients, staff and volunteers represent a wide cross section of nationalities and cultures that bring social diversity and richness to our organisation.
No less than 54 countries of origin are featured within Life Care showcasing the multicultural qualities of aged care and Australia’s proud history of welcoming new residents
from other parts of the world. As part of Life Care’s Charter to partner with people as they embrace life and live every day, it was decided to celebrate the many cultures that make up our social fabric. Inspired by the Lifestyle Network Group, Cultural Mosaic Month was held in October with a wide range activities at Glenrose Court, Roselin Court, Parkrose Village, Reynella Lodge and Aldinga Beach Court. Raelene Madden, Chair of the Lifestyle Network Group, said the celebrations were such a success that Life Care would continue to have dedicated Cultural Mosaic events in the future.
Norman House guest Roger Cornish discovers the wonders of Greece
Resident Lyn James radiant in one of the national costumes
She said the success was measured through the involvement and enjoyment of residents and their families, staff and volunteers, each of whom brought special mementos, memories and experiences to displays, discussions and celebrations.
CULTURAL RICHNESS TO LIFE CARE On Thursday 31 October, residents and staff from each of the sites, along with Norman House, gathered at Parkrose Village to reflect on events held during Cultural Mosaic Month. Raelene invited each of the Lifestyle Coordinators to make a five-minute presentation on the activities held at their sites. Penny McCullough said the idea of saying hello in different languages to people at Glenrose Court was a fun aspect of the month along with a parade of Indian, Nepalese, Sri Lankan, African, Japanese and Australian fashions, Craft Group artworks of Aboriginal themes, an origami display and music from around the world. An Italian evening with pizza and lambrusco was a highlight with residents requesting a follow up event with Chinese food. Carole McHugh said residents and staff at Aldinga Beach Court contributed to decorations and displays including a centrepiece of dolls holding hands around a globe of earth. Flags from many different countries were included in the display
representing the origins of people working and living at Aldinga Beach Court. Celebrations included a high tea shared with residents from Reynella Lodge and featuring a multicultural menu of Indian, Italian, English and Australian delicacies. Wendy Charleson said Parkrose Village began the month with an Australian theme centred on the football finals followed by displays of clothing and keepsakes from 17 different countries. A family tree concept captured the theme of “living and working together” along with a spectacular photographic display of residents and their countries of origin, an English high tea and a “fair dinkum” Australian barbecue presented by the Men’s Group. Andrea Hanson said the launch of the Reynella Lodge cookbook, entitled The Golden Oldies, was an important aspect of Cultural Mosaic Month with a number of traditional recipes from various countries. Other highlights at Reynella Lodge included a poster and costume display, a Scottish piper at Church With A Difference, creation of a
Argentinian-born volunteer Christina Albala serving treats of her homeland with Wendy Charleson Mediterranean Garden, Happy Hour celebrations with songs from Italy, Greece, Mexico, England and Australia, and a visit by the children of a guest speaker from the Ivory Coast. At Roselin Court, residents and staff representing 20 different countries enjoyed sittings of foods from around the world with other activities including a flag display, staff in colours and costumes of various nationalities, and a collection of handbags from Paris and England. Lifestyle Assistant, Jenny Dinning, said a 100th birthday for resident Connie Copson, a 99th birthday for Pearl Mowbray and a 90th birthday for Elva Cox were celebrated during Cultural Mosaic Month along with a memorable barbecue cooked by Derek Dittrich, General Manager Residential Services, and Simon Kewell, General Manager Corporate Services.
Residents, staff and volunteers presented a wide variety of mementos for displays at the various sites
Chief Executive Officer, Allen Candy, said Life Care was a richer organisation for its multicultural qualities, and he thanked everyone who contributed to the success of Cultural Mosaic Month.
2013 LIFE CARE STAFF AWARDS IN A “Tonight is about celebrating the outstanding group of people who make Life Care a premier aged care provider. It is an opportunity for us all to reflect on the achievements that truly demonstrate what Life Care and Live Every Day is all about.” With those welcoming words, Life Care’s Chief Executive Officer, Allen Candy, launched the 2013 Staff Awards Night at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre. It was an evening of fun, bringing together people from across Life Care to cheer excellence in individual performance, team spirit and collective commitment to a mission that honours the life of every person to whom we provide services. Allen reflected on major achievements of the past year including: • starting a major expansion project at Aldinga Beach Court; • the relocation and rebranding of Life Care Active; • success in Federal Government funding with 24 new home care packages; • the changing of name and relocation of Life Care at Home; • the Aged and Community Services SA & NT Award for
Excellence for development of the Life Care Charter; • initiating the Life Care Master Plan; and • the Multicultural Mosaic that showcases the hugely diverse backgrounds of people who work, volunteer, live and are associated through family and friendship with Life Care. Prior to the presentation of awards, a number of staff members who have reached milestones in service were recognised including twenty year achievers Jane Smith, Personal Carer, and Sue Robertson, Hotel Services Coordinator, both of Parkrose Village. In coming weeks, other staff members with significant years of service will be formally recognised at their own sites. Allen said the staff awards celebrated outstanding achievements in five categories directly aligned to our values and the Life Care Way. “Nominations for these awards have come from you – our staff members – and not by management,” he said. “That gives the awards special meaning.” We received in excess of 200 nominations, with the top category again being the Life Care Way Award.
The Innovation Award, sponsored by Walterbrooke Architects, recognises an employee who has shown commitment to excellence in programs, projects or processes through innovation. The winner was Helen Cogzell of Aldinga Beach Court, who addressed the challenge of developing a temporary laundry service for residents while the normal laundry was out of action during the expansion project. Runner-up was Jude Lowe of Life Care Active, who constantly searches for dynamic and innovative ways to enhance services for customers. The Leadership Award recognises an employee from any level of the organisation who has shown excellence in leadership demonstrated by outstanding initiative, inspiration and motivation for others. The winner was Sharon Richardson of Parkrose Village, an exceptional leader and mentor who willingly shares her knowledge and experience with others. Joint runners-up were Penny McCullough of Glenrose Court and Andrea Hanson of Reynella Village, both of whom show outstanding qualities in their leisure and lifestyle roles and in volunteer coordination. The Customer Service Award, sponsored by HESTA, is presented to an employee who is recognised for their high standards of customer service in any setting. Jackie Molloy of Glenrose Court was the winner for her excellent service to residents and their families, staff members and contractors. Runnerup was Lauren Burke of Aldinga Beach Court, who constantly cares for and communicates with others in a helpful and courteous manner.
Aldinga Beach Court staff members cheering on their colleagues
The Team Excellence Award, sponsored by NASA, is presented
NIGHT OF FUN AND CELEBRATION
Winners and runner-up award recipients Penny McCullough, Jude Lowe, Antonietta Lorenzutti, Lauren Burke, Helen Cogzell, Damien Pimlott, Sharon Richardson, Andrea Hanson and Sue Ind. (Absent: Jackie Molloy) to a team that has demonstrated shared goals to deliver clear benefits in day-to-day work or in particular projects or tasks. There were six equal winners of this award. They were the Lifestyle and Hotel Services Team at Parkrose Village, the Live Every Day Lifestyle Team at Roselin Court, the Aldinga Beach Court Building Team, the Norman House Team, the Kitchen Team at Glenrose Court and the Reynella’s Got Talent Team at Reynella Lodge.
The ultimate award – the Life Care Way Award – was sponsored by EPAC, and it recognises an employee who exemplifies the Life Care Way in their daily work routine. There were many nominations for this award, which is a great credit to the staff of Life Care. The winner was Antonietta Lorenzutti, an exceptional and highly valued member of the Life Care Active team. She conducts herself each day with professionalism, integrity and enthusiasm sharing the passion for
Bill Hall sets the dance floor on fire with Rebekah Ryan
her work with colleagues and lifting the spirits of others. Joint runners-up were Damien Pimlott of Property Services, a highly committed and valued staff member who is motivated by the well-being of residents and staff, and Sue Ind of Aldinga Beach Court, an outstanding Chaplain who is dedicated to making residents and staff feel very special. After the presentation of awards it was party time with fun, laughter and dancing to the band Keep The Change.
Jude Lowe, Deb Gabrovsek and Jacinta Robertson
FIELD DAYS PROMOTE ACTIVE LIFESTYLES Life Care Active is extending its specialised allied health and fitness programs for over 55s in the community after a series of fitness field days for seniors at Reynella Village Community Hall. With funding support from the City of Onkaparinga through its Every Generation program, the field days provided people with the opportunity to undertake tests for cardiovascular health and osteoporotic fracture risks. People attending the field days were encouraged to participate in Life Care Active’s integrated health and fitness courses with a positive response. The Strength for Life program was developed by COTA SA to promote strength training for people over 50 with access to endorsed fitness providers. Miles Lunde, Manager, Life Care Active, said there was a clear synergy between Life Care Active’s allied health and fitness programs for over 55s and the COTA SA Strength for Life initiative.
“The Every Generation Onkaparinga program also celebrates and acknowledges outstanding achievements and valuable contributions that older people make to our communities,” he said. Life Care Active personal trainers, Michala Forrest and Deb Gabrovsek, presented two field days at Reynella Village in October.
“They were well attended with each participant receiving a written report on their assessment to identify ways to improve their fitness and reduce risk factors,” Miles explained. “Each person also received free “goodie bags” with information about healthy activity options provided by the City of Onkaparinga and local community groups.” Life Care Active’s tailored exercise classes continue to grow in popularity at its new centre at 230 Payneham Road, Payneham and in regular sessions at Parkrose Village and Reynella. The classes are also presented at the Aberfoyle Park Baptist Church along with a Living Well with Parkinson’s disease course. The exercise programs aim to keep older South Australians healthy, mobile and engaged with their communities while living independently in their own homes “We plan to extend the exercise programs to Aldinga Beach Court in the new year,” Miles said.
LIVE EVERY DAY THE VOLUNTEER WAY Life Care greatly respects and values our volunteers who in 2013 have contributed an amazing 22,500 hours of dedicated and skilled support to our organisation. Our volunteers, who currently total around 250, `assist staff in many ways and strengthen community connections for our residents and clients. In the growing challenges of aged care, Life Care recognises the importance of volunteers across our broadening range of services. Accordingly, we have mounted a strategic effort to showcase the special qualities of volunteering in aged care and to promote Life Care as an organisation of choice for people willing to dedicate some of their spare time to the support of older South Australians. In 2012, the Volunteer Project Team was formed to develop strategies to recruit volunteers along with systems and processes to maximise their enjoyment and fulfilment in contributing to our defining standards in aged care.
Some of our volunteers at a special recognition function earlier this year
The project team comprises Deborah Muldoon, General Manager Innovation and Service Development; Jacinta Robertson, Manager Respite Services, Norman House; Raelene Madden, Residential Services Manager, Reynella Lodge; Penny McCullough, Lifestyle Coordinator, Glenrose Court; Anne Higginson,
Manager Life Care At Home; and Kelly Schutz, Human Resources Assistant. Recently, the project team launched the Life Care Volunteer Induction Booklet entitled Volunteering – Working Together The Life Care Way. Jacinta said the booklet, which is being presented to each new volunteer, embraced many of the features of the staff induction process to showcase our commitment to the Life Care Charter and the true essence of Live Every Day. “It is also a resource for staff members to ensure our engagement with volunteers is conducted in a consistent and seamless way across the organisation,” Jacinta explained. “Increasingly, we will be relying on volunteer support in our residential care facilities and in community care services, including Norman House.
Project team members Penny McCullough and Raelene Madden with the volunteer induction booklet
“Currently, we benefit from about 160 volunteer hours each month within Respite Service, but we are aiming to increase this through the recruitment of more people willing to devote their time and skills in aged care.”
DARREN ‘REVS’ UP FOOTY PASSION Former champion footballer, Darren Jarman, knows what it is like to perform before a crowd having won two premierships with Adelaide and one with Hawthorn. Darren has retired as a player, but in a series of recent visits to Life Care’s residential sites he showed no signs of losing the ability to entertain. Indeed, his visits were some of the most enjoyable he has experienced in his role as a roving ambassador for the Adelaide Crows. The purpose was to urge senior supporters to maintain their passion for team success in 2014 and to reflect on some of the highlights of a spectacular AFL career. “I love to see the passion people have for footy, and it is particularly important for older people to maintain that enjoyment,” Darren said. “It gives everybody something to look forward to week after week, year after year. Age is irrespective when it comes to football because you can still barrack for your club even if you can no longer get along to the games.” Darren’s visits showcased the unique partnership that has developed between the Adelaide Football Club and Life Care. The relationship recognises that people in aged care maintain strong community connections and interests, particularly in sport. Darren met with scores of Life Care’s residents, along with staff and volunteers, to fill rooms with laughter about some of his on and off-field exploits, including missing the team’s 1998 premiership victory motorcade through the streets of Adelaide while he recovered from grand final celebrations. “I woke up in time to turn on the TV and see a cardboard cut-out picture
Darren Jarman at Glenrose Court with Lesley Lamb and Jeff Grivell
of myself in the car carrying my name,” he said. Darren joked with Life Care’s residents, signed autographs, presented footy tipping competition winners with their trophies, and competed in a sporting quiz. At Glenrose Court, Darren replicated a Brownlow Medal count calling the results of the tipping competition throughout the season, finally presenting the first prize to Jeff Grivell. “Jeff is the winner of a nice new Toyota motor car,” he joked. Doris Whitman led the tipping at Reynella Lodge and was delighted to meet Darren. “I feel like a fraud though, because I don’t know anything about football,” she laughed. At Aldinga Beach Court, Darren presented resident Jean Rutherford with her third consecutive trophy for winning the tipping competition. Jean recalled Darren and his brother Andrew playing as juniors for Gaza
Football Club in the north-eastern suburbs before embarking on stellar SANFL and AFL careers. “I remember how great the Jarman boys were,” she said. At Roselin Court, Darren provided some fun commentary on a replay of one of the grand finals in which he played a pivotal role. Holding up the 1998 Premiership Cup he declared: “If we win next year, I’ll be back and this will be full of champagne.” Life Care’s Chief Executive Officer, Allen Candy, said the partnership with the Adelaide Crows was a vital part of the organisation’s philosophy to help each person in its care to “live every day” through doing the things they enjoy. “Football is an enduring joy for older people and we greatly value our relationship with the Adelaide Crows and greats of the game like Darren Jarman. He is an outstanding ambassador for the club and the game.”
‘STIRRERS’ INSPIRE SPECIAL COOK BOOK
Volunteer Lesley Schilling with residents Ann Rincker and Di Bentley
Reynella Lodge has launched a unique cookbook brim full of recipes, sweet memories and lasting pleasures. Entitled The Golden Oldies, the cookbook was the inspiration of the weekly cooking group known affectionately as “The Stirrers”, and it features a delicious mixture of foods enjoyed over generations by Reynella Lodge residents, staff and volunteers. All of the recipes were tested and endorsed by The Stirrers to be included in the book, which will be sold to raise funds to purchase iPads for residents to access the internet and have e-mail contact with families and friends. The book is dedicated to the late Betty Kennedy, who inspired the cooking group with her passion for food and wisdom in the kitchen. A competition was held to name the book and resident Doris Whitman came up with the winning title, The Golden Oldies Cookbook. “I have enjoyed cooking all my life and the cookbook is a wonderful
idea that we know will create a lot of enjoyment,” Doris said. Lifestyle Coordinator, Andrea Hanson, said some of the recipes were all-time favourites while others were added as the group experimented with different flavours, textures and tastes. “Reynella Lodge residents, staff and volunteers were asked to contribute, and the response was really amazing,” Andrea said. “As the recipes came together, there was discussion about household hints and we decided to add these to this book along with photographs,” Andrea explained. “It is a book of enjoyment and we are sure some of the stories and photographs will make people smile. We would certainly love feedback.” Derek Dittrich, General Manager Residential Services, attended the launch and congratulated everyone involved in the concept. “This is another example of the great things that happen in our residential care sites,” Derek said. “The cookbook has generated interest
PEOPLE & PLACES REYNELLA LODGE and enthusiasm, and it is a great outcome. “It is not just about cooking. It captures the qualities of friendship, sharing and laughing, and that’s what life is all about.” Residential Services Manager, Raelene Madden, said with sales of the book the enjoyment of its recipes would spread far and wide in the community. Cooking group members Di Bentley and Ann Rincker said each participant had a wonderful time contributing recipes and ideas to the book. “It is nice to know that so many families will benefit from its contents,” Di added. The book is selling for $10.00 a copy from reception at Reynella Lodge.
CRAFTY CHATS A BLESSING FOR JOAN PEOPLE & PLACES REYNELLA VILLAGE
In each of person’s life journey there are unplanned twists and turns that may change their sense of selfesteem and the way they view the world around them. Sudden impacts on health and regular routines can especially leave a person isolated and dispirited, unsure of the future, and sometimes unwilling to embrace the things that would otherwise make them happy. As people age, they can become more vulnerable to illness or injury and the resulting physical and psychological consequences. Life Care’s commitment through its various services and support programs is about helping people to keep their interests and hopes alive to bring buoyancy and vitality into ageing as a natural part of living. Sometimes the simplest little things can have a very significant and positive influence in lifting people out of despondency and motivating them to engage with others. For example, at Glenrose Court an inspiring Knit and Natter Group has developed in which humble balls of wool help people to connect with their past.
Joan Cameron has been inspired by her involvement in Crafty Chats
suffered a stroke that affected her mobility and restricted use of her left arm.
I was surprised at what I could achieve, and now I will have a go at anything.
In her own words, Joan was devastated. “It was a shattering experience and I did not think I would be able to cope,” she said. “I live alone with help from my son, Andrew, and daughter, Melanie, but the stroke left me despairing about my sense of pride and independence. It can be so easy to give up.”
“I’ve come to understand that Crafty Chats is more than just the craftwork. It is a wonderful social environment where we come together to share friendly chatter and laugh. “Life Care has lifted me out of the doldrums and made me realise that motivation may only start with a few short steps, but it can be incredible where it takes you.”
Joan received support through Life Care At Home, and through this program she was encouraged to become involved in the Crafty Chats group.
Wilma Johns, a personal carer and coordinator of Crafty Chats, said the group was growing in numbers and interests.
It has brought together residents, some in various stages of dementia, in colourful and creative ways through knitting where they pick up the proverbial thread of their lives and engage with others through their craftwork.
“When I first came, I was very hesitant,” she explained. “But it was such a welcoming environment, and as each week passed I became more involved and more interested in the craftwork.
“It is beautiful to see people like Joan glowing again because of their involvement here,” she added. “We are very conscious that newcomers may be apprehensive, but we welcome them with open arms.
At Reynella Village, a Crafty Chats group is thriving through artistic creativity and happy conversation.
“I have never been artistically inclined, but we have produced hand-painted window decorations that are quite beautiful.
“We don’t use the word can’t in this group and each person is doing amazing things in their own areas of interest and skills. The fun and laughter says it all about their outlook on life. It is a really good feeling to see people happy.”
For Joan Cameron, 78, of Happy Valley, Crafty Chats has been a blessing. Three years ago she
LAPPING UP FITNESS IN THE POOL Norman House guests have taken an enthusiastic plunge back into a new health and fitness course at Unley pool.
pool program was an extension of a special relationship that exists between Norman House and Unley Council.
Tuesday Group members have begun a six-week course of swimming and aquatic exercises following the success of the pilot program last summer. The program, coordinated by Respite Services team member, Judy Linard, is being run in collaboration with Alzheimer’s Australia SA.
Apart from the provision of the community pool, the Council also supports the Norman House Side by Side group in its regular activities to rejuvenate a garden area adjacent to the tramline at Stop 5.
The participants, most of whom are living with various degrees of dementia, spend around an hour in the water each week and find it a stimulating and enjoyable way to exercise and interact. “They look forward to pushing their own physical boundaries and developing new skills,” Judy explained. Each session is followed by a barbecue poolside or back at Norman House. Jacinta Robertson, Manager Respite Services, said the success of the
PEOPLE & PLACES NORMAN HOUSE
Unley Council has provided plants, mulch and other items to support Side By Side members in their activities to enhance the landscape for the benefit of the local community and commuters. “These projects are about positive engagement between our guests and the broader community while delivering positive outcomes for each participant,” Jacinta said. Tuesday Group members Terry Daly and Peter Lewis were high in praise of the sessions in Unley Pool. “I do laps and love it,” Terry said. “It has been an opportunity for me to get back into swimming, and I find it very beneficial.”
Peter added that while not a good swimmer, he enjoys getting into the pool. “It is a great environment in which to get fit and engage with our friends who meet every Tuesday,” he said.
LASERS WIN FLAG The Life Care Lasers have triumphed in their season basketball grand final at Wayville. Urged on by Parkrose Village residents and retirement living residents, the Lasers took the flag with a 43 to 22 victory Congratulations to the premiership players Allen, Simon, Ray, Miles, Ryan, Julie, Nicole, Verity and Lei. And big a cheer to residents, staff members and volunteers who attended games during the season to support the Life Care team.
ALEX’S GIFT OF LOVE PEOPLE & PLACES GLENROSE COURT Residents of Glenrose Court have proudly received a beautiful garden seat crafted by Glenunga International High School student Alex Barnard as a tribute to his grandmother, Betty Westley. Alex, 18, made the jarrah seat at home in recent months as part of his International Baccalaureate course, and it has been a major achievement considering he was also studying for his Year 12 exams. But it was a labour of love culminating in Betty officially receiving the seat on behalf of other residents at Glenrose Court. Betty was thrilled with Alex’s wood working skills and admitted to “having a tear in her eyes” about his effort.
“Alex is a very special boy,” she said. “He has done such a wonderful job with the seat.” The seat has pride of place outside the chapel where people can enjoy quiet contemplation. The International Baccalaureate program aims to help develop intellectual, personal, emotional and social skills through community services. For Alex it was an opportunity to recognise his grandmother and contribute to the Glenrose Court community. “She is very happy at Glenrose Court and our family is very grateful for the support she receives,” he said.
WONDERS
Alex’s father, Tony, supervised the project and was equally proud to help deliver the seat. “It should last a long time and provide comfort for many people at Glenrose Court,” he said.
Jill and Rachel with the special Christmas gifts Parkrose Village resident Rachel Stone is a keen and talented knitter and quilter whose creative needlework continues to amaze family and friends. Over the years, Rachel has applied her knitting and sewing skills to produce jumpers, blankets and other essential items for her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. But her latest project showcases another dimension of her adaptability in craftwork. Betty and grandson Alex celebrate the arrival of the garden seat
Rachel’s daughter, Jill Harvie, asked her to create dozens of knitted Christmas puddings that
PIONEERING HERITAGE Roselin Court resident Connie Copson recently celebrated her 100th birthday with family and friends reflecting on her direct links to the early pioneers of South Australia. Connie’s maternal grandfather, William Pritchard, was among the first settlers in Adelaide arriving on the migrant ship Hooghly in 1839. The Hooghly was built in India in 1819 and named after the Hooghly River in Calcutta. She carried migrants to South Australia in six voyages between 1836 and 1856.
IN WOOL PEOPLE & PLACES PARKROSE VILLAGE will be stuffed with chocolates and lollies. They will be delightful little gifts that Jill plans to present to her colleagues at Aldinga Beach Reception to Year 7 School, where she is an Education Support Officer.
William was a jack-of-all-trades including a period running a timber yard in King William Street, Adelaide. He also lived to be 100 and for many years was an early settler celebrity at the annual Proclamation Day celebrations at Glenelg. Connie’s milestone birthday on 16 October was celebrated with a quiet family lunch at the Botanical Gardens Restaurant and a party for about 50 guests at the home of her daughter, Sue Anders. Born in Gawler, the youngest of five children, Connie became a prominent identity in the town
PEOPLE & PLACES ROSELIN COURT through her involvement in dressmaking activities, helping students with craftwork at the local Catholic school, and serving the Country Women’s Association, Legacy and Probus. Prior to marrying Charlie Copson, she worked as a dental assistant in Gawler. Charlie passed away about 20 years ago. Sue is the only child of Connie and Charlie, and she has blessed the family with two daughters, Olivia and Heather, who produced three sons – Fred, Rocco and Charlie (Junior). That makes Connie a very proud grandmother and great grandmother. Connie has lived at Roselin Court for about 18 months and enjoys quiet reflection about a long and eventful life. She is an enthusiastic participant in indoor bowls and a regular at music evenings at Roselin Court.
“Mum loves coming up with things that are meaningful, and the little puddings will be very popular. “She has made many different things for the family, and even blankets to keep the dogs warm at the Animal Welfare League shelter. “Mum has been a resident at Parkrose Village for about a year she really enjoys the activities and company of others. The way the staff and volunteers care for and support mum is nothing short of brilliant.” Rachel, who is nearly 89, said she was very happy to help Jill’s school. “The puddings are good enough to eat,” she joked.
A garden party for centenarian Connie (SEATED THIRD FROM LEFT)
CHRISTMAS SPIRIT IN LIVE EVERY DAY
Resident Doreen Purdie puts the finishing touches on decorations with lifestyle team member Sarah Miles
PEOPLE & PLACES ALDINGA BEACH COURT
“It was a great way for our residents to share Christmas spirit and send festive greetings to the broader community, and they felt it was entirely appropriate to call it the Live Every Day Tree,” said Lifestyle Coordinator, Carole McHugh.
Live Every Day, the spirit with which we care for and support residents and clients, takes many shapes and forms.
The Craft Group, including residents from the Memory Support Unit, met regularly to create decorations for the tree, which was fashioned from natural pine branches.
At Aldinga Beach Court, the latest expression of Live Every Day is a Christmas tree that made its public debut at a major community celebration in Willunga.
Aldinga Beach Court featured at the festival among exhibits from schools, kindergartens, businesses, community groups and individuals.
With a sparkling range of baubles and other adornments, it was a popular feature of the Willunga Christmas Tree Festival in late November and early December.
The festival, which gets bigger each year, is presented by the Willunga Uniting Church. Spokesperson Jenny Esots said this year’s festival was a prelude
to what will be an even more spectacular event in 2014 associated with Willunga’s 175th anniversary celebrations. “It has grown in stature and popularity over the past 12 years as an opportunity for people to express community spirit and connection,” Jenny said. For Craft Group members at Aldinga Beach Court, the event was one of pure joy and shared endeavour. Olive White said she was very excited about the festival and looked forward to attending, while Joyce Hough described the Christmas tree project as “a lovely idea.”