ABOUT LIFE SUMMER 2014 -15
• Congratulations to all nominees and winners in the 2014 Staff Awards • Our latest Best Practice Award • Celebrating Decades of Our Lives • Farewell to Coordinating Chaplain Doug Walladge • People & Places
Congratulations to all Life Care Staff Award finalists Customer Service Excellence Award
Leadership Award
Tina George - ABC Deb Craggs - NH Bev Jolly - RLC Glenys Brooks - CORP Meredith DeYoung - PRV Sue Rutgers - GRC Jo Oatway - REY
Mary Cook - ABC Rajani Bhattarai - GRC Rebekah Ryan - NH Cindy Graham - ABC Debra Gabrovsek - LCA Lyn Nash - PRV Sandy Hooper - CORP Maris Kavanagh - LCAH
Life Care Way Award
Team of the Year Award
Angie Masters - CORP Bill Hall - PRV Laura Malone - RLC Vicki Wyatt - LCAH Nima Janghorban - PRV Peta Robinson - RLC Eleanor Chiew - NH Trevor Murphy - PRV
Aldinga Beach Court team Life Care at Home and Norman House teams Bedtime to Breakfast project team Property Services team Chaplaincy team Reynella Lodge team
Thank you to our 2014 sponsors
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 Life Care has presented the 2014 Staff Awards with a memorable celebration at the Stamford Grand Hotel, Glenelg. The cover photograph shows award recipients enjoying the event in which we reflected on highlights of the year, recognised staff members who had achieved service milestones, and those who were considered by their peers to have excelled in their respective roles as individuals and team members. Full story and pictures inside.
CONTENTS 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.
CEO’s Report Applauding our high achievers Our latest Best Practice Award Farewell to Doug Walladge Celebrating Life People & Places
AWARDS SHOWCASE THE TRUE CEO’s REPORT
the various award categories. The important aspect of the staff awards is that people are nominated by their peers rather than management. I am immensely proud of all nominees and winners, and the manner in which they wanted to include colleagues in their success.
The 2014 staff awards celebration in November was another highlight in a year of achievement for Life Care. The true spirit of the Life Care Way was evident in the number of staff members nominated by their peers for the awards and the manner in which we celebrated their success. It was the best awards presentation we have held with a record number of attendees enjoying the seaside ambience of the Stamford Grand Hotel in Glenelg. This year we introduced the Resilience Award recognising the willingness of employees who have embraced change within Life Care and the aged care sector overall. So many people at the event told me how much they enjoyed the opportunity to nominate staff members for special recognition in
The great sense of teamwork is best expressed in the words of one award recipient who sent me a note after the event. It read in part: “I would just like to extend my gratitude for the award I received. I was very honoured and genuinely shocked to be given it as I feel there are countless staff members, other than myself, who ably fit the criteria of the award. We have a great balance of excellent staff and management and a positive culture that is embraced throughout the entire team.” The spirit of the Life Care Way was also showcased in two other projects that generated a hugely positive response across our organisation including clients, family members, employees at all levels and volunteers.
Allen Candy
This edition of About Life features reports on the Celebrating Life event, in which we launched the Decades of Our Lives calendar, and the 5000 Poppies Project, a community tribute of respect and remembrance for all Australians who have served their country in conflicts. They were great examples of the Life Care community coming together in a way that generated great pride and enjoyment. The 5000 Poppies Project in particular meant a lot to clients who have precious memories of family members who served in the Australian Army, Navy and Air Force and in other essential capacities, including medical and nursing care in times of war. Doug Walladge On behalf of the Board Directors, management and staff of Life Care, I wish to thank Doug Walladge for his long and dedicated service as a chaplain and, in more recent times, Coordinating Chaplain for our organisation.
Life Care Chair, John Stock OAM, and Allen Candy discussing the Master Planning process
Doug is leaving Life Care at the end of the year to pursue new challenges in the Ministry of Churches of Christ in SA & NT.
SPIRIT OF THE LIFE CARE WAY
The Life Care Way Award winner Trevor Murphy (centre) with runners-up Peta Robinson and Nima Janghorban
He is a man of great integrity, capacity and intellect, and he has led the way in pastoral care within the context of the Life Care Way. He is a chaplain of the modern era and it has been a delight to work with him over the past four and a half years. RAA Life Care has entered into a new relationship with the RAA that will bring direct benefits to our independent living clients in terms of personal well being and security. Details on the advanced personal alert system are featured in this edition of About Life and we have joined the RAA in a road show at various sites to explain the benefits of the technology. Many of our clients have enjoyed a long and trusted association with the RAA through its roadside assistance services. It is an iconic
South Australian organisation that is greatly valued for professionalism and reliability. Life Care is delighted to be partnering with the RAA in the introduction of the personal alert system and in the new year we plan to introduce a broader range of RAA services to our independent living clients. Master Planning In 2015, Life Care will advance our master planning process that involves significant investment in capital works to modernise our buildings and create integrated communities where people want to live and work. We have already lodged a planning application for the redevelopment of Roselin Court and the recently acquired property at Beulah Road, Norwood.
As it unfolds, the master plan will redefine Life Care and put us at the forefront of change to address new challenges in aged care. Festive Greetings I thank each of our staff members and volunteers for their outstanding service over the past 12 months and their commitment to helping those in our care to Live Every Day. Thanks also to the Board Directors for their unwavering support for our initiatives and actions to deliver the best outcomes in aged care. As we approach the festive season, I extend best wishes to everyone in the Life Care community and wish you all a safe, healthy and happy 2015. Allen Candy Chief Executive Officer
SPARKLING SEASIDE STAFF PARTY TO
Life Care has developed an exceptionally strong management and leadership team with skilled and dedicated staff members who bring excellence into their work through shared values and teamwork. Chief Executive Officer, Allen Candy, said: “We attract the best people to Life Care because of our brand and our values. To work for Life Care is to declare that you want to be the best at what you do.” In early November, Life Care recognised the expertise and commitment of employees with the 2014 Staff Awards presentation at the Stamford Grand Hotel in Glenelg. It was a spectacular seaside event attended by Board Directors, management personnel and
employees representing the full cross section of Life Care’s operations. The evening began with Life Care recognising staff members who had achieved service milestones. The focus then switched to outstanding achievements of employees in categories that are closely aligned to our values and the Life Care Way. Allen emphasised that the award nominations had come from staff members, and not management. “Being nominated by your peers gives very special meaning to the awards.” he added. “Importantly, we are here to celebrate the fact that as a group we have achieved an enormous
amount since the last awards night in November 2013.” Highlights of the past year include: • the official opening of the newly expanded Aldinga Beach Court; • launching a partnership with Meals On Wheels at Aldinga Beach Court to serve the needs of people in the southern region of Adelaide; • winning an Australian Aged Care Quality Agency Better Practice Award for the innovative Bedtime to Breakfast project; • mounting a new series of Life Care Way workshops; and • staging successful Intergenerational Days to involve clients, family members, staff and volunteers of all ages in celebrating the meaning of Live Every Day. Staff members applauded for long and dedicated service were Jean Knight of Hotel Services at Reynella Lodge and Susan Paje of Admissions at Corporate Services (twenty years), and Janice Nockolds, a Carer and Lifestyle Assistant at Reynella Lodge (thirty years). “In the coming weeks, we will be acknowledging those who have achieved their five, ten and fifteen year milestones, and those who have chosen to receive their twenty, twenty five and thirty year milestones at their respective sites,” Allen said. The excitement mounted at the Stamford Grand Hotel as the staff awards were about to be presented.
APPLAUD OUR HIGH ACHIEVERS
The Leadership Award, sponsored by Walter Brooke, recognises an employee from any level of the organisation who has shown excellence in leadership as demonstrated by outstanding initiative, impact, inspiration and motivation to others. The winner was Rajani Bhattarai, Care Coordinator at Glenrose Court. Rajani is a quiet achiever who provides leadership and guidance in a team environment. Joint runnersup were Cindy Graham, Care Coordinator at Aldinga Beach Court, and Maris Kavanagh, Clinical Liaison at Life Care at Home and Corporate Services. The Customer Service Excellence Award, sponsored by HESTA, is awarded to an employee recognising high standards of service through their dealings with customers in any setting. The winner was Sue Rutgers, Care Coordinator at Glenrose Court, who is recognised for being professional, knowledgeable and capable in everything she does for clients and their families, and for her support and respect for fellow employees. Joint runners-up were Deb Craggs, Assistant Coordinator at Norman House, and Meredith De Young, Enrolled Nurse at Parkrose Village. Again, there were outstanding nominations for the Team of the Year Award, jointly sponsored by the RAA and Cosoff Cudmore Knox, recognising team members who share the same goals and deliver clear benefits by working together
effectively and efficiently in day-today tasks or on particular projects. Executive Management judges were unable to separate the finalists and the Team of the Year Award was jointly presented to: • Reynella Lodge staff who pulled together in a fundraising effort to support and comfort a colleague who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease; • Aldinga Beach Court staff members who worked through a period of significant change while maintaining high levels of morale during the major redevelopment process in 2013-14; • the Bedtime to Breakfast project team who have enhanced the quality of life for clients and were recognised with a Better Practice Award; • Life Care at Home and Norman House staff members who have worked with exceptional shared commitment and professionalism through a period of change and challenges; • Property Services staff members who provide outstanding service in support of operational efficiency at our sites while maintaining gardens and facilities to the highest standards; and • The Chaplaincy Team who provide wonderful support through pastoral and spiritual care of clients, staff and volunteers. The Resilience Award, sponsored by Marchese Partners, recognises staff members who have shown exceptional get-on-with-it attitudes
through periods of significant change in their work areas. Again, there were six equal winners - Vicki Wyatt and Marie Dray of Life Care at Home, Deb Gabrovsek of Life Care Active, Sandy Hooper of Corporate Services, Jessica Harrison of Roselin Court and Carole McHugh of Aldinga Beach Court. The Life Care Way Award, sponsored by EPAC, recognises an employee who exemplifies the core values of the Life Care Way in their daily work routine. This ultimate award was presented to Trevor Murphy, a Personal Carer at Parkrose Village. Trevor is respected by his colleagues, clients and relatives for his exceptional commitment to the highest standards and for his ability to share knowledge with new employees and work experience students. His ability to uphold and demonstrate the Life Care Way in his daily duties is considered inspirational. Runners-up for the Life Care Way Award were Peta Robinson, Personal Carer at Roselin Court, and Nima Janghorban, Personal Carer at Parkrose Village. Peta and Nima are recognised for working “above the line” with professionalism, courtesy and integrity. Life Care’s Chairman, John Stock OAM, congratulated the nominees, finalists, runners-up and winners before it was party time.
OUR LATEST BEST PRACTICE AWARD
Nancy Morelli and Sue Mark (centre holding the award) with members of the Bedtime to Breakfast project team
Life Care has been officially presented with a prestigious 2014 Better Practice Award for an innovative project to support natural sleep patterns among residents in aged care. The Australian Aged Care Quality Agency (AACQA) honoured Life Care with the award in the health and personal care category. The Bedtime to Breakfast project has been implemented with success at Aldinga Beach Court and it is now being embedded into our four other residential living sites and at Norman House respite home. AACQA State Manager, Nancy Morelli, presented the Better Practice Award at a breakfast celebration at Life Care’s Parkrose Village. Sue Mark, Residential Services Manager at Aldinga Beach Court, and Derek Dittrich, Life Care’s General Manager Residential Services, proudly accepted the award on behalf of the Bedtime to Breakfast project team. It was Life Care’s second Better Practice Award in two years. In 2012, it received the coveted AACQA award in the staff retention and development category for
initiatives introduced as part of the Life Care Way excellence in aged care program. The Bedtime to Breakfast project was developed in response to a review of clients’ overnight call bell frequencies. The project reviewed current practices for evening and night staff to identify activities or environmental factors that were contributing to clients not achieving appropriate levels of natural sleep. The project involved management, nursing, care and lifestyle staff members. Clients and their families were also engaged to identify preferences relating to settling routines and sleep. It identified causes of sleep disturbance and potential solutions, including modifying daytime social and recreational activities. Strategies were also introduced to minimise noise and disturbance from more wakeful clients. A detailed literature review was also undertaken before guidelines were developed to support natural sleep patterns among clients. Resulting call bell audits have shown a decrease of almost 150 per cent.
The 2014 Better Practice Award
Derek Dittrich said the Bedtime to Breakfast project was at the heart of Life Care’s Live Every Day practice to promote quality of life among clients. Nancy Morelli congratulated the Bedtime to Breakfast team with the initiatives now being rolled out across Life Care’s residential living facilities and respite services. “It is about enhancing the lives of clients through activities that encourage positive sleep patterns,” she said. “This is Life Care’s second Better Practice Award and it is good to see the organisation leading the way with initiatives that promote excellence in aged care.” Aldinga Beach Court client, Jean Rutherford, of McLaren House, said she enjoyed being part of the Bedtime to Breakfast project, especially “not having to rise at a designated time.” Carer Nichola Tucker added: “We have seen many improvements in the quality of life of the clients. There is greater involvement in daytime activities because residents are getting a better sleep through the night and waking naturally.”
GOODBYE DOUG AND BEST WISHES Coordinating Chaplain, Doug Walladge, is bidding farewell to Life Care after 15 years of pastoral care for clients, staff members and volunteers. The entire Life Care community has joined in expressing thanks and best wishes to Doug, who will pursue other roles in the Ministry of Churches of Christ in SA & NT. Doug said he had seen enormous changes in Life Care, and in chaplaincy services, over his time with our organisation. “Accreditation was introduced and it has become the base standard from which Life Care strives to excel,” he said. “Another noticeable change is that people are now generally older when they move to residential living. “Life Care’s breadth of services has grown significantly. I have seen the expansion of community services, the establishment of Norman House as an outstanding respite care facility, and the transition from day therapy to Life Care Active.
of volunteers to Life Care as a whole, and to chaplaincy services. Equally, our staff members are incredibly dedicated with the Life Care Way now providing a clear focus on our defining quality of care. “The importance of interacting with people with respect and attention remains a priority and it includes clients in our care along with their families, employees and volunteers. “Memories of individuals and of special moments in Life Care will remain with me because of good outcomes or expressions of thanks or joy. “Sometimes I was the recipient of those good expressions. For example, one man always prayed for me at the end of each visit. “The trust placed in the chaplains is both an honour and a burden and it is taken very seriously.
Doug Walladge
“I am leaving with a strong feeling of confidence in the future of Life Care, and the ministry of our chaplains as part of the large caring team.”
“Aldinga Beach Court has progressed from our smallest residential living site to our largest, and I have experienced the building of Life Care’s first country independent living village at Balaklava. “Chaplaincy has also changed in many ways. I began as the chaplain with support chaplains who were local Ministers or Life Care employees. “I visited all of the residential living sites almost weekly. Now we have five Life Care chaplains, each of whom provides a service focus for a particular area. “Over the years, I have worked with 12 colleagues in chaplaincy representing a diversity of personality, experience and skills. However, in each case, their ministry was effective and appreciated. “Things that have not changed in the past 15 years include the importance
Doug with Craig Sweaney, Derek Dittrich and Ranel Juanta
CELEBRATING LIFE WITH LAUNCH OF OU Among the enjoyable aspects of ageing are the collection of memories of people, places, events and experiences that shape our lives.
excitement and interaction among many people who embraced the theme of Decades of Our Lives. “Getting together to identify key events, the dressing up and the photographs created such fun,” she said. “It was a wonderful event for Life Care and everyone involved.”
Each year, Life Care organises a Celebrating Life event bringing together clients, family members, staff and volunteers to share their memories and to engage with each other in fun and laughter about things in the past and present. The theme of Celebrating Life in 2012 was Life in a Garden, and last year it was a Cultural Mosaic recognising people across the Life Care landscape from no less than 54 different countries.
The Celebrating Life Day included presentations from members of the project committee about participation in activities and events tracking key events in decades from the past. John Huggett and Rebekah Ryan from Norman House
In early November, Parkrose Village hosted the latest Celebrating Life gathering with the official launch of the 2015 Decades of Our Lives calendar.
Reynella Lodge, Hayfield Plains independent living village, Life Care at Home, Norman House, Chaplaincy Services and Corporate Services.
In the weeks preceding the event, clients, staff members and volunteers identified events of local, national and global significance that highlighted various decades of the 20th century.
The 2015 calendar features facing pages listing major events through the decades with accompanying photographs that illustrate events, fashions, fads and music that shaped our national character.
Contributions came from Glenrose Court, Roselin Court, Parkrose Village, Aldinga Beach Court,
Raelene Madden, Coordinator of Volunteers and Student Placement, said the project created great
Stars of the 50s ... Keith Schutz and Koula Pappas from Parkrose Village
At Glenrose Court, the focus was on the period from 1910 to 1919 with a historical bus tour of Port Adelaide, a colonial dance performance, a visit to the Army Museum at Keswick, a trivia and quiz event, craftwork and a singalong. Roselin Court reflected on the 1920s with a spectacular dress up affair and songs of the era in a speakeasy setting of the famous Prohibition period. Among those who enjoyed it was client, Mona Haywood, who at the age of 103, has great memories of the era.
Andrea Hanson (left) with Nevil Pink and Norma Hoffman from Reynella Lodge
UR CALENDAR OF PRECIOUS MEMORIES Hayfield Plains also celebrated the years between 1920 and 1929 with a fancy dress affair.
performance of the Australian Ballet and the inaugural Festival of Arts in Adelaide.
Life Care’s chaplains explored the resilience and resourcefulness of people who lived through the Great Depression of the 1930s - a period in which bread and butter pudding was a delicacy and it seemed anything could be repaired with fencing wire and binding twine.
“Disco fever” came to Reynella Lodge with clients dressing in authentic fashions of the 1970s and enjoying music of the era. Other highlights included a retro Tupperware party and sharing favourite recipes of the period.
Life Care at Home and Parkrose Village embraced the 1950s theme as Australia emerged from the gloomy post-war period into a new era of prosperity. The calendar features pictures of students from Stella Maris Parish School at Seacombe Gardens recreating the hula-hoop craze. Parkrose Village clients dressed in fashions of the fifties for their photo-shoot and enjoyed rock’n’roll dancing and recipes of the period, including iconic cup cakes. Aldinga Beach Court threw light on the 1960s with clients donning colourful tutus to celebrate the first
Norman House combined music of the 1980s with the global awakening of an environmental conscience. Its calendar photograph features members of the band Burnt Out Oil (inspired by Midnight Oil) in a beautiful landscape setting at Waite campus of the University of Adelaide. Corporate Services also contributed with a focus on the 1980s with Chief Executive Officer, Allen Candy, and other staff members providing a pictorial reminder of the popularity of the Blues Brothers. Parkrose Village clients, Koula Pappas and Keith Shutz, who were models for the calendar photograph depicting fashions of the 1950s,
reflected the overall enjoyment of the Celebrating Life event. “It was wonderful and so much fun,” Koula said. “In the 1950s I was a teenager in Port Pirie.” Keith added: “I have great memories of that period, and this event brought many of them back to life.” Reynella Lodge client, Norma Hoffman, was among the stars of the photo-shoot of the 1970s. “Around that time I was a governess on a station in central Australia,” she said. “It was a great time of my life.” Allen Candy thanked everybody involved in the Celebrating Life event and the Decades of Our Lives calendar project. “This has involved a lot of energy and creativity that underlines the word life in Life Care.” he said. If you would like to purchase a calendar for $7, please contact reception on 8239 9800. All money raised will go back into the Celebrating Life project.
Members of the Celebrating Life project team with copies of the Decades of Our Lives calendar
2015 ANZAC TRIBUTE BLOSSOMS
PEOPLE & PLACES ALL SITES
Life Care has thrown its support behind the 5000 Poppies Project commemorating the Anzac centenary with passion and creativity that embraced clients, families, staff and volunteers. This ambitious national project has involved individuals and community groups making craftwork poppies that will in 2015 form a spectacular visual tribute to Australian servicemen and women over more than a century. The intention is to create a massive field of handcrafted poppies in Melbourne’s Federation Square on Anzac Day 2015. Later, the craft display will tour nationally with
the ultimate aim of finishing at the Australian War memorial in Canberra as a permanent commemoration to those who served their country in conflicts. When our Chief Executive Officer, Allen Candy, suggested that Life Care should become involved in the project, he could not have predicted the level of response. Lifestyle & Volunteer Coordinators rallied clients, staff members, volunteers and families to become involved in making poppies for the tribute. Raelene Madden, Chair of the Lifestyle Coordinators Group, said the poppies had been crafted by knitting and crocheting, while others were made from fabric. “All of our sites became involved and the response has been amazing,” Raelene said. “The creativity has been phenomenal, and it has really
Roselin Court client Ross Down and volunteer Jeff Marr at the Remembrance Day ceremony
brought the entire Life Care community closer together for such a good cause. “It has also been important in encouraging clients to engage with each other while reviving memories of parents and grandparents who served in the Australian forces.” Poppies created by the Life Care community were a special feature of Remembrance Day at residential living sites on November 11. Raelene said the next step would be to bring all of the poppies together for a photograph that would feature on a Gallipoli landing centenary poster in 2015. The project was inspired by the poppies that flowered in the Spring of 1915 on the battlefields of Belgium, France and Gallipoli. Over the years, the poppy has become a symbol of both great loss in war and hope for those left behind.
Part of the poppy tribute at Reynella Lodge
WOOLY WONDERS FOR DOLLS Doll companionship is a choice for some individuals in aged care with the support of their families. Particularly in cases of dementia, doll therapy can ease anxiety while providing purpose and a sense of nurturing. Dawn Haines, who lives independently at Parkrose Village, is dedicated to bringing some extra cheer into the lives of clients who enjoy their doll friendships. She spends much of her spare time knitting clothes for the dolls to keep them well dressed for companionship. “I’ve been knitting since I was a young girl,” said Dawn, who is now 78. “In fact, I started by using a couple of long nails instead of knitting needles. “Knitting has provided me with a lot of relaxation over the years and it has helped me to clothe generations of my family.”
Dawn has four children, nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Say no more about her experience in knitting baby clothes! She also knits baby jackets for foster children. When Wendy Charleson, Lifestyle & Volunteer Coordinator at Parkrose Village, asked Dawn if she was interested in knitting clothes for dolls, she jumped at the opportunity. “I know that the clients who love their dolls really appreciate the clothes that I make,” she said. “It is as enjoyable for me as it is for them.” Wendy said doll companionship had a positive impact on the lives of clients. “For some it revives precious memories and it is lovely to see how dolls can still bring a smile to their faces,” she said.
PEOPLE & PLACES PARKROSE VILLAGE
EMBRACING WIDE WORLD OF DIGITAL PEOPLE & PLACES ROSELIN COURT AND REYNELLA LODGE
Life Care has embraced a program in which digital imagery helps clients in aged care to keep connected with people and events in the broader community. The program, run by the Lions Club of Burnside, began about four years ago introducing digital photo frame technology to enrich the lives of people at an Unley residential care home. It has since grown to involve 24 Lions clubs across South Australia providing digital resources to more than 100 aged care facilities, hospitals and hospices. Representatives of Roselin Court and Reynella Lodge were recently invited to a workshop presented by the Lions Club of Burnside outlining details of the program. The club then presented Roselin Court and Reynella Lodge with digital photo frames, USBs and DVDs for the enjoyment of clients and their families. Glenrose Court has been running with the program for the past 18 months.
Attendees at the digital imagery workshop run by the Lions Club of Burnside
The digital imagery program coordinator, John Dunn, said a series of grants and the generosity of individual Lions Clubs had made it possible to extend the reach of the initiative around the State. The resource pack includes images in various themes including atmosphere, travel, gardens, memories and special interest.
Roselin Court client Margaret Brand enjoying photographs from the Art Gallery of South Australia
Family members are submitting precious photographs to include in the digital presentations “For example, in the atmosphere theme we were able to access photographs that were submitted by members of the public to feature on the ABC weather report each evening,” John explained. “The Adelaide Symphony Orchestra then allowed us to use its music as background to the presentation. “We have sourced images from museums around South Australia and the memories theme includes pictures of household items, clothing fashions and scenes from the early days of Adelaide. “The armchair travel theme is particularly enjoyed on photo frames by residents who are largely bedbound and on television by residents in communal lounges. “The resources also allow clients and their families to present family photographs that preserve precious memories.
IMAGERY
COURTYARD MURAL TO HELP BRIDGE GENERATIONS Reynella Lodge has developed strong relationships with schools through intergenerational projects that enhance knowledge of ageing issues among students. Tatachilla Lutheran College at McLaren Vale and Westminster School at Marion have close ties with Reynella Lodge through projects that create true enjoyment among students and clients.
“Our workshops introduce representatives of aged care facilities to the program that is really making a difference in the lives of older people. “We are delighted that clients at Roselin Court, Reynella Lodge and Glenrose Court are able to participate.” The Lions Club of Burnside acknowledged the support of Uniting Care Wesley, the City of Burnside and the South Australian Government with grants through Seniors Disability, Ageing and Carers and Seniors Office for the Ageing. Mary Tuck, Lifestyle & Volunteer Coordinator at Roselin Court, said: “Our clients are really enjoying the concept. Family members are also submitting precious photographs on USBs to include in the digital photo frame presentations.” Andrea Hanson, Lifestyle & Volunteer Coordinator at Reynella Lodge, added: “Our clients are also enjoying the digital photo frame technology. It has led to the support of the Noarlunga Morphett Vale Lions Club in a pilot program adding a Your Memories topic.”
Tatachilla students recently spent time with clients collecting memories and photographs from the life journeys of clients. They scanned the photographs and returned with scripted DVDs featuring music and images of individual life stories.
PEOPLE & PLACES REYNELLA LODGE
Another highlight has been the Henny Penny Hatching Program that was enjoyed by the entire Reynella Lodge community. The program provides an exciting experience of watching chicks hatching from eggs and taking their first steps. It brought back fond childhood memories for many clients and was the source of fascination for younger staff members and family visitors.
Westminster students have also embarked on a project to create a mural on the wall outside the atrium hall at Reynella Lodge. “The clients chose a theme of a butterfly in a bed of flowers and this will be featured on the artwork,” said Andrea Hanson, Lifestyle & Volunteer Coordinator at Reynella Lodge. Students who visit Reynella Lodge spend valuable time with clients sharing craftwork skills, enjoying Tai Chi and learning wheelchair skills. Like all of our residential living sites, Reynella Lodge encourages clients to make suggestions about lifestyle activities and events they can enjoy. Clients recently participated in a planning session from which it was proposed to hold regular movie nights and cruise on the River Torrens aboard Popeye.
Carer Nicole Holmes having fun with one of the newly hatched chicks
WELCOME FOR NEW VOLUNTEERS PEOPLE & PLACES GLENROSE COURT
Life Care’s volunteers come from vastly different backgrounds with varying skills and interests. But there are some things they have in common including a powerful sense of community and compassion for others. Glenrose Court has welcomed two new volunteers who showcase these qualities. Jinhee So came from South Korea three years ago with her husband, son and daughter to make a new life with her family in Australia. She had worked as a registered nurse in South Korea, but since coming to Australia she has shared her time between being a stay-athome mum and undertaking English studies four days a week. “I decided to volunteer with Life Care because I enjoy helping others,” Jinhee said. “It is also a wonderful way to make new friends and to practice my English.
Rob Darling ‘full of beans’ in the Glenrose Court café
I volunteer two days a week in the café and very much enjoy being part of the Life Care community “I am learning new skills assisting another long-term volunteer, and I enjoy helping clients in their craftwork projects.” Rob Darling is a musician and former business owner who was in search of a daytime interest after retiring. “I am continuing my music career playing at clubs, hotels and weddings,” he explained. “But rather than sitting around at home during the day, I wanted to do something positive for myself and the community. “I now volunteer two days a week in the café at Glenrose Court and I very much enjoy being part of the Life Care community.
Jinhee So ... ‘I enjoy helping others’
“It makes me feel good helping others and I try to contribute to a happy and vibrant atmosphere when I am with the residents.” Appreciation of people like these two volunteers is reflected in the heartfelt words of residents. For example: “Jinhee is very friendly and willing to help.” “Rob has a beautiful singing voice and he is very accommodating to our needs.” Volunteers contribute greatly to the quality of care that defines Life Care and to the community spirit that is very much a part of encouraging people to Live Every Day. In 2013-14, Life Care’s volunteers dedicated more than 20,000 hours of time in support of our varying services. For information on volunteering with Life Care, or to apply, please contact us on 8239 9800.
A NEW CHAPTER IN TOM’S LIFE Dr Tom Atherton has led a remarkable life with a treasure of memories about people, places and events that shaped the world we know today. He has been a scholar, lecturer, church minister, chaplain, a champion of Greek language and culture, and an outspoken advocate for refugees. Now, at the age of 79, he has added a new chapter to his amazing life story with an autobiography entitled Dr Tom! Who Do You Think You Are? On Friday 21 November, family members, friends and colleagues gathered for the launch of the book at Aldinga Beach Court, where Tom has lived in residential living since 2006. After so many decades of eloquence as a lecturer, public speaker and conversationalist, Tom’s capacity to talk has been slowly, but steadily stolen by Parkinson’s disease. Yet, his mind and memory remain sharp as has his capacity to record the past with such clarity.
Clients, staff members and volunteers at Aldinga Beach Court have marvelled at Tom’s ability to reflect on his interesting life and to put the many twists and turns of the story together with incredible detail. Initially, Tom was able to dictate his words for Life Care volunteers to type the draft manuscript. More recently, he worked the alphabet on a large keyboard that he addressed with the index finger of one hand. The computer literally gave Tom his “voice” again. The result is an autobiography going back to his childhood in Lancashire when England was so susceptible to nightly bombings from German aircraft. It tracks his progression to bank clerk, migration to Australia, learning and lecturing at university, becoming a Minister, living in America, returning to church duties in Woomera and fighting for the rights of refugees held behind high fences at the remote outpost. The book is written with the warmth, wit and intelligence of a philosopher
PEOPLE & PLACES ALDINGA BEACH COURT
and as a man who describes himself as a “dreamer and visionary.” At the book launch, Tom’s thoughts on his life were expressed with the following words: “I have followed my dreams and some of my dreams have become a reality.” In his book, he says simply: “I am not unhappy. I can read. I have good ears to listen. I am very grateful that my mind has survived. I have had time to reflect on a long life, and a useful one I think.” Sharing most of Tom’s life journey has been his devoted wife Judith, who spoke about how the progression of Parkinson’s disease had forced their parting when Tom became a client at Aldinga Beach Court. But, Aldinga Beach Court Chaplain, Sue Ind, said at the book launch that Tom’s arrival at Aldinga Beach Court was the start of a new chapter in a life well lived. “With their positive attitudes, love for each other and ability to laugh, Tom and Judith have been an inspiration to us all,” Sue added. Among those to congratulate the author were Life Care Board Directors, Graeme Murley and Alan Young. “It is very exciting to see that life does not stop even with an illness like Parkinson’s disease,” Graeme said. “It is also a credit to Life Care for the way it is supporting people like Tom with resources to express themselves.” Copies of the book Dr Tom! Who Do You Think You Are? are available at Aldinga Beach Court.
Judith and Tom at the book launch
PROUD TO CALL ROSEHAVEN HOME Rosehaven is a shining PEOPLE & PLACES INDEPENDENT LIVING
example of Live Every Day in the genuine warmth of welcomes for new clients
Rosehaven is one of Life Care’s most picturesque residential settings providing outstanding quality of life for clients who are able to live independently. Nestling in a quiet creek side location with beautiful gardens and colourful birdlife, Rosehaven is just off the North East Road in Modbury within an easy stroll of shopping, banking, medical, library and entertainment services and facilities. Yet, there is something else about Rosehaven that makes it a very special place. It is the strong sense of community and friendship shared among the residents. “Across all our sites and services, we support vibrant and engaging
communities to encourage people to Live Every Day,” said Sharon Quinn, Life Care’s Customer Enquiries Coordinator. “Rosehaven is a shining example of Live Every Day in the genuine warmth of welcomes for new residents and the way that people in the village interact with each other.” About Life asked some of the residents to gather for a photograph to illustrate the enjoyment of what it means to call Rosehaven home. The smiles say it all! Margaret Clarke has lived at Rosehaven for 23 years and she says simply: “I feel that being part of this community was meant to be. I am very happy here.
Rosehaven clients sharing quality time in the picturesque gardens
It is such a beautiful place and I enjoy walking around the gardens. Sometimes I even run if I am late for church.” Janet Harding has been a Rosehaven resident for 18 years. “I felt welcome from the start and life has been wonderful,” she said. Pauline Dawson came to Rosehaven 17 years ago and she has seen many new residents settle into the village. “We are a very happy and friendly group,” she said. Residents Eric Thompson and Bill Cook enthused about the beauty and serenity of the gardens, and the close proximity of essential services. “Residents change as years go by, but the friendly nature of this place is constant,” Eric said. And Bill added: “It is a good place to live and very conveniently located for everything we need.” The latest clients to be welcomed at Rosehaven are Leonie Mitchell and Gladys and Ron Haggart.
CRAFTY SHOWCASE FOR CHRISTMAS When you lace laughter and shared creativity into craftwork, the outcomes can be quite remarkable. Such is the case with Crafty Chats, a growing and imaginative group of women who meet regularly at Reynella Village to pursue their passion for craftwork in its many dimensions. The success of this initiative belongs equally in the enjoyment of knitting, needlework, embroidering and beading as it does in the joys of engaging with others in an inspiring environment. During the year, Crafty Chats members created an amazing collection of items including knitted products, crocheted blankets, baby wear, dolls’ clothing, glass wear and decoupage. To help raise some funds to purchase materials for their ongoing activities, the group recently presented a colourful trading table in the community hall at Reynella Village. Prue Oake, the Life Care at Home Coordinator of Crafty Chats, said the event was a great success with a wide variety of craftwork available at affordable prices. “The Crafty Chats members also recently took some of their craftwork
to Reynella Lodge to help clients select items for Christmas presents,” Prue said. “In some cases, they were happy to give away their items to help clients prepare gifts for family members. Members of Crafty Chats include clients living independently at Reynella Village and others from the wider community.
PEOPLE & PLACES LIFE CARE AT HOME
“It is wonderful to see the numbers growing with the group recently welcoming some new participants,” Prue said.
PEACE OF MIND WITH SAFETY ALERT PEOPLE & PLACES INDEPENDENT LIVING
The RAA is one of the State’s most traditional and trusted organisations. Established in 1903, it has a proud history of serving the motoring related needs of South Australians. In more recent years, the RAA has diversified to also provide services and support in finance, insurance, travel and community care. Life Care and the RAA are now partnering in a program promoting an advanced personal alert and security system that supports the wellbeing and peace of mind of our independent living clients and their families. “We are proud South Australian brands and our new relationship will provide direct and lasting benefits to our customers,” said Derek Dittrich, Life Care’s General Manager Residential Services. A road show has been presented to residents across many of Life Care’s sites to explain the benefits of the RAA Personal Alert System. Scott Humphris, the RAA Customer Account Manager Aged Care Secure Services, said clients could plug the
Nancy Pitkin (left) and Joyce Eagle testing the personal alert unit
system into their telephones, and also have the option of wearing a pendant or wrist band that can be activated to alert others of a health or security problem.
“This immediately opens an alarm line to the RAA allowing the client to talk hands free over the telephone-linked unit with a trained operator.
He said the RAA held secure data on each person registered with the Personal Alert System, including contact details of nominated family members or friends and access codes for security doors or gates.
“Depending on the situation, the operator will immediately notify a nominated family member or friend or emergency services - ambulance, fire brigade or police.
“The system is activated by pushing a red button on the unit attached to the telephone, or the button on the pendant or wrist band,” Scott explained.
“If the operator cannot hear the client or make contact with a nominated person, an ambulance will attend the client’s address. “Apart from peace of mind in terms of health issues, the service provides an immediate response to people who may be concerned about somebody posing a threat to their personal security.” As part of the arrangement with Life Care, the RAA will organise installation of the Personal Alert System and individual training on its use. Life Care’s independent living clients are being offered the service for a monitoring fee of $3.20 per week. For more information, please contact Sonia Clark on 8239 9800.
Scott Humphris discussing the system with Parkrose Village clients
Life Care and the RAA will present another road show visiting clients in early 2015 to discuss a broader range of support services.