Rejoice for Respite Care Around the Clock: SwanCare's Night Shift
Meet the Neighbours
John & Margaret Bouwhuis
DELICIOUS & HEALTHY RECIPES
The Value of Volunteers
INSIDE THIS ISSUE CEO’S COLUMN | GENERAL NEWS | WHAT’S ON: LOCAL AREA
AUGUST DECEMBER/JANUARY / SEPTEMBER 2018 2019
tidings
26 Plantation Dr Bentley WA 6102 Phone: (08) 6250 0000 Fax: (08) 9470 2017 www.swancare.com.au twitter.com/swancare
Healthy mexi-chicken bake - See Page 22
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Tidings Magazine is a bi-monthly publication produced and printed on behalf of the residents at SwanCare. Material deadline for advertising is the 7th of the month preceding each bimonthly edition. To book advertising or for information regarding rates please contact SwanCare on 6250 0032. Please supply editorial contributions as a Word document electronically to tidings@swancare.com.au. Hard copies of articles can be handed to reception in the Administration offices at Bentley Park and Australind Rise. Any supporting photographs may be supplied electronically or as hard-copy prints.
Meet the SwanCare night shift team - See Page 14
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CEO’S COLUMN From Graham Francis
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SWANCARE NEWS
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NOTICEBOARD
Reports straight from SwanCare to you
Disclaimer In good faith SwanCare accepts articles, a small selection of advertisements, and other content for Tidings. However, the opinions and claims expressed in articles and advertising materials presented in Tidings are those of the authors and the advertisers respectively, and do not necessarily reflect the views of SwanCare, unless stated. No responsibility is accepted by SwanCare for the accuracy of information contained in the articles or advertisements. Cover image: SwanCare residents John & Margaret Bouwhuis
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General notices
VILLAGE HAPPENINGS Happenings close to home
VOLUNTEERS CORNER The value of volunteers
Meet Golda Pridmore - See Page 12
Rejoice for respite - See Page 20
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MEET THE TEAM Care around the clock: The SwanCare night shift team
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WHAT I KNOW
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MEET THE NEIGHBOURS
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RESIDENT STORY
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A tribute to my Nana - Judith Bond
John & Margaret Bouwhuis
Rejoice for respite - Judy and Bill Mackintosh
RECIPE Healthy mexi-chicken bake
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ACSA Award - See Page 5
RECIPE Healthy apricot custard flan
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Your questions answered
PENNY'S BOOK REVIEW The Tattooist of Auschwitz
OUT & ABOUT Photos from Friday Fun Day
WHAT'S ON: LOCAL AREA Activities to get involved in
Tidings Magazine
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CEO’S COLUMN
SwanCare News
During July, SwanCare was proud to be announced the state winner in the 2019 Aged & Community Services Australia (ACSA) awards in the category of Innovation in Service or Design. We will now be nominated to represent WA in the National awards to be held in October.
Welcome to SwanCare
As reported in this edition of Tidings (see article, right), the award reflects our programs with Curtin Medical School and Notre Dame University to advance the skills of future doctors and nurses. I see programs such as these as absolutely necessary as we prepare for the future of aged care. Not only do we need to recruit and retain a large workforce in the coming decade, we need to ensure that this workforce is skilled, experienced and, most importantly, motivated to enjoy a career in aged care. The recent, and very well-publicised, negative coverage around aged care in the media has understandably created some undesirable perceptions around aged care, but we know from listening to our staff that working in this industry is indeed a rewarding career choice. Quality aged care organisations such as SwanCare have a responsibility to ensure that health care professionals have an opportunity to experience the aged care landscape for themselves and make real and meaningful relationships with their elders, so they can form an opinion from real-life experiences, not media coverage. Thank you to all our wonderful residents who have been integral in helping shape that landscape, particularly those involved in the Senior Citizen Partnership Program. We really do have you all to thank for the award, and for helping to create better aged care services for future generations to come. Graham Francis, SwanCare CEO
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To ensure the continued success of SwanCare as an organisation, it is important that the Board consists of appropriately skilled and committed members to help provide input into areas where there is a need for special expertise. With that in mind, the existing SwanCare Board and Executive team has worked hard to welcome two new members of the Board - Dean Lavers and Rob Wilton. “In Dean and Rob we have two new members that are committed to the values and culture that SwanCare is renowned for,” SwanCare CEO, Graham Francis, said. “They have also demonstrated, throughout the recruitment process, a high level of personal integrity, a clear focus Rob Wilton on long-term sustainability and are both very customer-focussed.” Dean Lavers
Dean has over 30 years senior management experience that has included leading major capital construction projects and the delivery of facility and asset management services across large acute care hospitals. Rob has an extensive career in commercial and not-for-profit roles as a Chief Financial Officer. His early career saw him serve as an Army Officer in the Special Forces of both the Australian and the British Army. He has served on several NFP Boards and since leaving the military has held numerous positions in the corporate environment gaining experience in corporate finance and governance. “Dean brings a wealth of experience in the area of infrastructure and facilities management, and with Rob, his financial skills combined with his intimate understanding of the community services sector will prove invaluable,” Graham said. “Both Dean and Rob have a strategic focus and will be able to provide significant input and guidance to SwanCare as it looks to plan for the next decade and beyond.”
SwanCare is an Innovation Winner
AGED CARE
AWARDS
2019 WA Innovation in Service or Design
WINNER
SwanCare has been announced as a winner in the 2019 Aged & Community Services Australia (ACSA) awards for advancing the skills of future doctors and nurses. A not for profit and West-Australian retirement living and aged care provider, SwanCare has won the Innovation in Service or Design category of the Awards, reflecting two programs developed by SwanCare in partnership with Curtin Medical School and The University of Notre Dame Australia. “At SwanCare we are committed to developing health professionals who are involved in meeting the care needs of our ageing population, now and in the future,” SwanCare General Manager of Health and Aged Care Services, Julie Atkinson said. “Nurturing the knowledge, skills and mindset of the future aged care workforce is of huge importance." The SwanCare/Curtin Medical School partnership, called the Senior Citizen Partnership Program, works as an intergenerational program to help develop senior-savvy doctors of the future. SwanCare resident Susan Lewis is currently linked with seven students in total. “It is very important for doctors to be aware of the processes of ageing, physically and mentally, especially as people are living much longer these days,” Sue said.
SwanCare was well-represented to accept the award
“As an older person I feel I have a wealth of knowledge and experience I can share with these young students. “I find the students delightful and I gain so much by learning about their views and different cultures. It really is a two way relationship - I feel I’m helping them and they certainly provide me with very stimulating conversation.” Now in its second year, the Graduate Nurses Program is a SwanCare/Notre Dame University partnership which every year welcomes two nurses to complete post graduate studies and attain their Graduate Certificate in Clinical Nursing while working at SwanCare’s residential care facilities. “Working with our partners in the development of our future doctors and nurses will benefit both our ageing population and our communities in general, by creating better health care outcomes,” Julie Atkinson said. “It is our hope that the understanding between generations will improve the perception of the aged care sector as a career path, attracting a younger demographic with a vibrancy of attitude and innovative thinking.”
Tidings Magazine
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SwanCare News Defibrillator Installed A defibrillator that SwanCare residents can use in emergencies is now located outside the SwanCare Administration Building. A 24-hour accessible defibrillator has been installed to the left hand pillar (as entering) of the building, thanks to Lotterywest in collaboration with the St John WA Community First Responder program. The First Responder program aims to get defibrillators to cardiac arrest victims in the vital minutes before an ambulance arrives. The device can be easily operated by someone without any training – the machine provides the instructions to the user.
To access the defibrillator in an emergency the first responder would phone 000 and be given the access code to unlock the cabinet and access the defibrillator. A representative from St John WA recently visited SwanCare to provide information and training as well as answering various questions from residents who came along to learn about the new life-saving resource. For further information about the resource, contact SwanCare on 6250 0000 or email info@swancare.com.au
According to St John WA, the single key contributing factor to improving survival rates of sudden cardiac arrest is the time taken to administer early CPR and defibrillation. Where CPR and defibrillation are administered within five minutes of an event, studies have shown dramatic improvements in survival rates.
Rare Villa in Australind Rise 15 Whimbrel Way, Australind $459,000 This is a rare opportunity to live in SwanCare’s Australind Rise community! The home is set within the grounds of our gated community with first class amenities in a beautiful coastal location. This listing will not last long! Call Margaret Robinson at Australind Rise on 0407 790 663 for more information.
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Features of this home include: • 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom • Double garage with automatic door • Large master bedroom with en-suite & wardrobe • Well-appointed kitchen • Abundant dining and lounge area • Lockable storeroom. Rainwater tank • Large alfresco under the main roof • Easy-care front and back yard • Ducted reverse cycle air-conditioning
Noticeboard SwanCare 3G GPS Pendant
New Process for Moving Out
The SwanCare 3G GPS Pendant has arrived! This is a smart solution for peace of mind, uses GPS tracking and can be programmed to alert SwanCare staff and nominated contacts that you require assistance. Features include:
SwanCare has recently implemented a new process around residents leaving their unit. This should familiarise everyone with the process, ensuring it is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
• Built-in GPS tracking can locate wearer via Google Maps to an accuracy of up to five meters • Comfortable, lightweight and waterproof • Store up to three emergency contacts • Speak and listen to call through the pendant’s built-in microphone and speaker phone SwanCare takes care of the setup and provides all technical support. Available on a rental basis for $35 per month. No lock-in contracts, no extra monitoring fees. For a demonstration, call SwanCare on 6250 0000.
Medical Centre Dr Aru Natchimuthoo will be on leave from 4 September to 20 September. The Clinic at the Swan Medical Centre on Graham Crescent will recommence 9.15am on 24th September. If you need any help please contact SwanCare resident support on 6250 0020. You may ring St James Newstart Pharmacy if you have run out of medication. You can call the following local GPs for help during office hours:
Prior to any keys being accepted back or paperwork being signed the departing resident and/or family must arrange a discharge interview meeting with Administration. At this meeting, SwanCare will go over the requirements for both departing residents and SwanCare. This will include keys/equipment to be returned, resale price and refunds (if applicable) and other general information. Thank you for your assistance in following this new process. For further information contact SwanCare on 6250 0000 or email info@swancare.com.au
Magnifying Viewer Did you know the SwanCare Bentley Park Library has a magnifier to help with reading? The electronic magnifier, donated from VisAbility, is simple to use and available during library opening hours - Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, 9am – 12 noon.
Dr YK Wong: 2A Rathay Street, Victoria Park Tel. 9361 2557 Park Medical Group: 779 Albany Highway, East Victoria Park Tel. 9452 9999 Dr Sri Srigandan or Dr Karrthik Srigandan at Belmont City Practice Tel. 9277 3999. After hours locum GP visits to your home: Tel. 1300 030 030 or 1300 644 483 Tidings Magazine
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Village Happenings 65th Wedding Anniversary
In 1965, at the urging of Shirley’s brother, Laurie, they migrated to Western Australia, settling firstly at East Victoria Park before Peter began a twelve year career at Fremantle City as its Public Relations Officer and Events Organiser, this involved being Director of Festival of Fremantle and other events, royal visits and other historical Fremantle milestones. He later served as a Fremantle Councillor and was Chairman of the Cultural Committee. In 1987 he was Director of the America’s Cup Festival.
Graham Francis congratulates Peter & Shirley Brunt
Congratulations to long-time SwanCare Bentley Park residents Peter and Shirley Brunt who celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary on June 5th this year. They had two celebratory functions to mark the occasion, firstly at daughter Lesley’s home, attended by 21 members of their large family. The second was arranged by the members of the Village Line Dancing Group with champagne and cake included. Organiser Pam Hind said this was an extra thank you for their work in helping run the group sessions since it started in November 2013. Photos of facets of Peter and Shirley’s married life were shown on the big screen which added to the occasion. CEO Graham Francis attended and extended his congratulations and thanks for their contribution over the past 20 years. Peter and Shirley first met on the local village green after Peter had been playing in a soccer match on May 24th 1951, Peter was on leave from the RAF at the time. A long happy courtship followed but due to Peter’s service they were not married until June 1954. They first lived in a caravan park near Duxford RAF station, Cambridge. After his demobilisation from the RAF they raised a family of four, two girls and twins (boy and girl).
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Wedding Day, 5th June 1954
Five years at Toodyay in the Avon Valley followed as manager of the Toodyay Tourist Bureau.
On retirement they moved to the Swan Valley (for six years) before becoming SwanCare village residents in December th 1999. The couple 20 Wedding Anniversary have spent 20 happy years here contributing to village life by running social events. Peter always had involvement and support from Shirley in all of his work at Toodyay, Fremantle and Swan Village. The extended family now numbers thirty, including great grandchild number nine born just days before their anniversary.
Bentley Park Show
Kingia/Tandara/Waminda Auxilliary
Saturday 26th October 2019 The Schedules for the show will have been delivered by now. If you have not received one it can be obtained from Ronnie in Admin. If you are in need of more entry forms these are available at Admin. Our chocolates are now being sold in the Village; which is one of our main fundraising activities for the Bentley Park Show. We would appreciate it if everyone can support this venture - the Grandies will love them! We are looking for new committee members for 2020. I would encourage everyone to think about joining our happy bunch. It is only for one hour every 2nd Wednesday of the month. We have wonderful support on the actual show day from our many hard working Volunteers, so it is just for the actual arrangements for the show throughout the year that the committee organises.
The August meeting of the Auxilliary will be held in the auditorium on Tuesday 27th August at 1.30pm. Our speaker is Frances Maber talking about her Great Great Grandmother-in-law who was convicted at the Old Bailey and sent to NSW as a convict. We had our Christmas in July lunch in the Swan Valley recently and it was enjoyed by all - particularly the Chocolate factory we visited on the way home. Our next function is the Annual Spring Lunch which is held on the 26th of September. Cost is $25 per head and includes a two course meal and some wine and soft drinks. Tickets will be available at our next meeting and also on sale in the auditorium on a date to be advised. You will receive a flyer with the date. Tables of 10.
You are welcome to call me or speak to one of our committee members for more information.
The Annual General Meeting will be held on 26th November and we would like some new faces on the committee so please give it some thought. It is not a hard job.
Maureen Grickage, BPS Coordinator 2019 Ph 6250 0580
Phyl Leavy. (Any enquiries before August meeting please contact Jan on 6250 0810)
Last Edition’s Crossword/Word Search Winner – Ethel Sloan! Ethel overcame the difficult clues to be the winner of Sue Lewis’s Streets of Bentley Park Crossword/Word Search! Ethel was happy to find she won this $20 voucher and planned to start using it at Sophia’s Café right away. In fact, straight after she picked up the voucher she was heading there to enjoy a coffee with a friend. We hope you enjoyed using your voucher, Ethel! Ethel accepts her prize
Tidings Magazine
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Village Happenings Swan Village Bowling Club
Fish 'n' Chips on Stratton
With the start of spring next month the club has three important dates for you to keep free.
Our Christmas in July concert was very special and a fitting tribute to departing SwanCare employee Paul Rea, who was both loved and respected by residents.
The first date to mark on the calendar is Thursday 5th of September for our usual luncheon outing, this time to the Bayswater Hotel.
This was clearly evident when Paul and his wife Beverley entered the Auditorium to a spontaneous applause from the residents.
For all the details and a nomination form see our notice board outside the Bentley Park Bowling rink in Saggers Drive. Payment to be made before Friday 29th August. Secondly, on 12th of September the club will hold it’s AGM in the Auditorium, Plantation Drive, commencing at 9.30 am. If any members wish to have an item included on the agenda, such items must be received by the secretary at least 14 days prior to the meeting. All members are urged to consider nominating for the committee and to keep the 12th of September free to attend the AGM. Our Christmas lunch has been booked for Thursday the 5th of December. With the current progress of the building we hope to be in our new club rooms by midNovember. Jim Leavy, President Ph: 6250 0555 Chris Simms, Secretary Ph: 0419 963 395
Swan Grocery Store New phone number: 9470 6021 OPEN 8AM-4PM MONDAY-SATURDAY (closed Sundays and Public Holidays)
Tien and Phoung welcome you! • Home deliveries available across Bentley Park (minimum $15) • Range of freshly prepared salads, fruit and vegetables. • Everyday products at a great price.
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Paul 'the Legend' Rea with wife Beverley
Paul was presented with a card signed by both residents and staff together with a gift from the residents. They were both wished all the very best for the future.
7th Heaven delighted us once again with some old favourites together with some new songs they had added to their repertoire. Our entertainers for our August Concert will be the "Darke Knights" whom I'm sure won't disappoint. Come along and enjoy this event which is held on the 1st Friday of each month. Cost is $15.00 which includes drinks, (red & white wine, beer, soft drink & juice) nibbles, and fish and chips served with a fresh garden salad. One hour of entertainment followed by a delicious afternoon tea. Bookings can be made on the day for the following month or by phoning Lesley on 6250 0590. See you in the Auditorium in August! Fish 'n' Chips on Stratton Committee.
Village Residents Advisory Council Notes A follow-up of our latest meetings. March meeting As a result of Dwayne’s presentation on Solid Waste Services WA regarding Cleanaway and his advice that tours of the organisation were available in school holidays, a bus load of residents visited the facility on Wednesday 10th July. They had an interesting time viewing the technology from a viewing room, with the aid of specialised equipment. Thank you Ken for driving the bus and taking charge while I was away – greatly appreciated. If anyone else would like to organise such a tour, the contacts will be provided by ringing Shirley Barnes on 6250 0558. May meeting A last-minute alteration of speakers at this meeting, with Helen Murdoch from Trials West at Murdoch speaking on ‘Respiratory Tract Infections Prevention’ and Jill Forrest, a Clinical Research Consultant from Adelaide (special visit!) speaking on research surveys. Both very interesting presentations – and I understand that several residents signed up to be involved in future research.
taken on a voluntary basis, and to provide email addresses and mobile phone numbers for distribution of information, as required, including any emergencies. There will be times set aside in various areas of the village where residents can have photos taken and fill out consent forms. When leaving the Village permanently, residents will now need to have a ‘discharge interview’ with someone from admin before handing in their keys or signing any documentation. Mei Huang, a Carer Representation Advisor, provided in-depth information as to an unpaid Carer’s role and the provision of available support through Carers WA, backed by Teresa – a good back-up re the audio, also. Both speakers are passionate about their roles in ensuring that Carers are given full information by all people involved in ensuring the well-being of their respective partners. Registration as an unpaid Carer is free of charge and all members have access to the services Carers WA provide for no cost. Phone: 1800 242 636 www.carerswa.asn.au
June Meeting Leanne Lebrun, Manager Admissions at SwanCare, made a very clear presentation on how to ‘move along’ with her assistance when the care facilities are required, while Andrew Hopkins, Principal of WA Aged Care Financial Solutions provided information on how to deal with the financial costs of going into Residential Care. Further information is available from both speakers as required.
Upcoming Meetings In the coming months, Shirley has arranged some interesting speakers for the coffee morning meetings. In August Paul and Graham will give a comprehensive update on the building program and ongoing plans for the village. In September, a police officer will give a talk on Seniors’ Safety.
July Meeting Judy Mackintosh took the Chair as Ellen is on holiday.
Remember also that in September we will be calling for nominations for council members. If you are considering nominating, and would like to know more about what is involved in the role, talk to any council member (contact details are in the monthly 'What's On' guide). Please think about the unique skills and interests you could bring to the council.
Natalie Hodi, General Manager Community Living, was introduced to speak about information gathering for purposes of identification in SwanCare. She explained that residents will be asked to have their photos
Opportunity to join the team!
Tidings Magazine
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Volunteers Corner The Value of Volunteers
Golda Pridmore with pet Georgie
Golda Pridmore Our volunteers make a huge impact on the lives of residents on a day to day basis. They enable residents to get out of the house, they encourage, and most of all have a laugh with everyone. No one loves a laugh more than Golda Pridmore. Golda has lived at SwanCare Bentley Park for over 16 years and has volunteered here for just as long – as well as volunteering elsewhere for most of her life. “I was a clinic manager for 35 years at a doctor’s surgery and I’ve always been in contact with people, so volunteering comes naturally to me. I love it.” said Golda. You will find Golda driving the SwanMobile on Tuesdays and alternate Saturdays, helping in our care facilities, talking with student doctors for the SwanCare/Curtin Medical School program, as well as being the Treasurer for our Auxiliary groups. A mammoth total of 41.5 hours per month! When you see Golda coming you will most likely see Golda’s gorgeous dog Georgie too, or more like ‘fur-child’ as we established while talking with Golda. “She’s a good doggie and comes with me most places” says Golda as she gives Georgie a little treat for being good. Golda loves to keep busy and her family is very supportive - she is lucky enough to have two sons, five grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. Golda joked “One of my sons lives in Kununurra and he rings me and says “You’re out again!” and I reply with “Do you want me to stay home, sit by the phone and wait for you to call?” He says “No mum, keep running!” says Golda as she laughs recalling the phone call. While speaking with Golda it was evident that she finds a great deal of pleasure in helping people.
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“I’d be lost without volunteering as it can feel isolating in my home by myself and I wasn’t getting to know anybody. I’ve made many friends by volunteering, and nearly everyone in the village knows me.” said Golda. Golda finished the interview saying “Volunteering is the most rewarding job I’ve ever had”. Golda has many great plans, but our favourite is to keep volunteering for many years to come. Thank you Golda for everything you do for SwanCare. You and Georgie bring a smile to so many faces. We appreciate you and all the volunteers. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer please get in contact with Karen Parker on 6250 0010 or email karen.parker@swancare.com.au
Food & Drink Quiz 1. If you had Lafite-Rothschild on your dinner table, what would it be? 2. What is sushi traditionally wrapped in? 3. May Queen, Wisley Crab, Foxwhelps and Lane's Prince Albert are all species of what? 4. What is allspice alternatively known as? 5. What colour is Absynthe? 6. What flavour is Cointreau? 7. How many crocus flowers does it take to make a pound of saffron? 8. Costing around $2,600 per pound and made only to order by Knipschildt, what is the name of this chocolate truffle? Answers on page 19.
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Meet the Team
Care Around the Clock: The SwanCare Night Shift Bidhya moved to WA from Nepal with her husband and brother, and began studying nursing. In 2016, she was offered a role as an AIN on the night shift at SwanCare. Bidhya provides holistic care to residents to ensure they can be as happy and comfortable as possible.
SwanCare's night shift team
Why the night shift?
When asked why he prefers working while the Forget 9 to 5. Welcome to 9pm to 7am rest of us sleep, Richard says that originally, it Our night shift team are truly one of a kind. was because it worked well with his lifestyle and SwanCare has nearly 40 employees that family commitments. “We’ve developed such a regularly work night shifts over our three care strong team on nights that I wouldn’t want to facilities and combined, they’ve served for over do anything else. Most of us have worked here 370 years at SwanCare. To understand what it for over 10 years. One colleague, Elizabeth, has means to work nights at SwanCare, we spoke been with SwanCare over 35 years.” to Richard Holloway, Night Shift Coordinator for Tandara and Kingia (pictured centre) and What does it mean to work Bidhya Shrestha, Assistant in Nursing (AIN) the night shift? (second from the right).
Meet Richard and Bidhya After working in emergency wards and aged care facilities in the UK, Richard moved to Perth in 2003 and joined SwanCare as a registered nurse. After a few weeks, he took the opportunity to become the Night Shift Coordinator for SwanCare Tandara and SwanCare Kingia care facilities - a role he has been doing ever since. Richard coordinates the night roster and clinical care plans, manages calls to nurses, and oversees the night team and the residents in their care.
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The night shift is not simply a ‘quieter version’ of the day. While there might be less going on ‘visibly’, and the environment can be more relaxed, the night shift team plays a vital role in delivering consistent care and support to their residents. Bidhya notes, “Diligent care is always needed. As individuals and a team, we need to take responsibility - so I’ve really improved my decision-making abilities.” Richard agrees, “Residents don’t simply stop being sick or needing support at night. With the staff we have, and the unpredictability of
our residents’ needs, we must work together and communicate. You can get very busy, very quickly.” At the end of his shift, Richard says he feels a sense of immense pride and satisfaction. “I always tell my staff, if we had a quiet shift ‘that’s brilliant - we’ve done our job.’” When asked how she feels, Bidhya pauses. “This is a significant question. Sometimes, some residents can be aggressive and we must call a supervisor. This can be confronting but it’s an important part of our role. And usually, I feel
with a resident at 3am, sipping a cup of tea. I love that. In those moments, we get to spend fantastic quality time with residents,” says Richard. It’s clear Richard and Bidhya have a deep and genuine care for their residents that extends beyond their formal duties. “The great majority of residents are so kind. I feel emotional about them because I never met my own grandparents. For me, they are my grandparents, so at SwanCare, I never feel like I’m actually going to work,” Bidhya shares.
It’s a privilege Bidhya says she has so many reasons to love working at SwanCare that it is hard to choose one! In the end, she decides to answer with “Coming to work is like coming to my second home. It is a real privilege to work here.”
peaceful and proud of our team because we have done our best work for the residents. The residents thank me and say, “You cared for me like my own daughter”. This is unforgettable.” she says.
Moments that make it all worth it It isn’t well known that during the night, staff often have the opportunity to spend more quality time with residents who may find it harder to settle, or who simply enjoy a midnight cuppa. For Richard and Bidhya, it’s the best part of the night shift.
Richard also loves working at SwanCare. “At a personal level, 18 months ago, my wife was diagnosed with cancer. It changed my life dramatically. I sometimes need to drive my wife to appointments, start and leave work earlier or need to cancel a shift at last minute - and SwanCare has been really accommodating. There are companies that would just say ‘no’. SwanCare not only supports its residents, but has supported my life,” says Richard. We are so grateful to have you, Richard, Bidhya and the entire night shift team. We rely upon you and could not be prouder of all that you bring. Thank you all.
“Some residents can find it hard to wind down. Sometimes I hear a staff member laughing
Tidings Magazine
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What I Know This story is a tribute to Judith’s beloved Nana and is written in the perspective of her five year old self. This was a time in Judith’s life which they spent the most time together and is also Judith’s youngest memories of time with her.
A Tribute to my Nana I can remember quite vividly that my Nana used to wear a lovely floral dress with bright coloured flowers on it. She was elegant, refined, and pretty – as well as a real lady! She would make me feel so stylish by trying to curl my very straight hair with bobby pins, just like hers. I do clearly reminisce upon the soft soothing manner and how relaxed I use to feel after listening to Nana. Thank you Nana for being so gentle with me. Judith aged 6
I recall Nana’s dining room had blue Lino on the floor and when Nana mopped it I wasn’t allowed to walk on it and leave my foot marks. At the time I didn’t understand why, I was only a five year old girl. I will always remember Nana used to walk with me, hand in hand, to her chook pen with a billy in her other hand. She would take me down a long path and through a gate with a high chicken-wired fence. Nana would say to me “We will have two brown boiled eggs each tonight and we will have some scrambled eggs for breakfast tomorrow made from the white eggs”. The black chooks laid brown eggs and the white chooks laid the white eggs, thank you Nana for teaching me that.
Nana Millsteed
I, Judith Rae Bond (Millsteed), 78 years of age, wish to reminisce a story about my memories of my Nana, Mary Anne Gale-Millsteed.
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A very minor incident once transpired but was a crisis to myself as a five year old girl. I wailed “Help Nana, help me please Nana! I am falling out of my bed!” I was crying so profusely that it stirred my Nana’s maternal manner to protect and soothe me. The true scenario was that my Nana saw me balancing precariously on the side of my single bed. She so conscientiously put me back in bed, and tucked me in so I wouldn’t fall out again. My Nana was a really loving lady and I felt so warm and safe when I was with her. So thank you Nana, for tucking me in and loving me so much.
Judith Bond now resides at Waminda
One sunny day, whilst I was happily hopping, skipping, and jumping on the front veranda of Nana’s cottage, I noticed a beautiful red geranium flower out in bright red bloom. Just as I was poised and ready to pick it, my Nana’s gentle soothing voice said to me “Please don’t pick my lovely red flower, it is my pride and joy!” I listened – I didn’t pick it and Nana was very, very jovial about it and she gave me a humungous hug! Thank you Nana you really were a lovely lady. Judith aged 9
When I was seven years old Nana went to live in Perth, with my Aunty Hallie and I didn’t see my Nana very much after that. We lost Nana to thrombosis of her leg when she was only 62 years of age and I was about eight years old. It was a sad time for me. I love you Nana, even now I am 78 years old. I am forever grateful that you were in my life Nana and my memories of you will linger on in my mind, always!
Judith aged 39
With all of my love, From your Grand-Daughter Judith Bond (Millsteed)
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Meet the Neighbours
John & Margaret Bouwhuis By Shirley Barnes Johannes (or John) was born in Hengelo in the Netherlands, into a very close family of eight children and his dress-maker mother and boilermaker father. The town was very small and close to the German border. During World War II in 1944, a bomb hit the centre of the town, causing several hundred casualties and a great deal of damage, so the family had to evacuate their house and move to an uncle’s farm in the countryside, to hide from the German Nazis. Incredibly, John’s father was rounded up by the Nazis a few days before they moved but he was able to escape from them and join the family. He attended school for six years in the Netherlands, which was just a few minutes from his home and his favourite subject was sport, especially playing football. In 1952 the family left the Netherlands from Rotterdam as migrants on the SS Waterman, arriving in Fremantle to join his father, Jan, and brother, Herman, who had migrated 12 months earlier and built a temporary home in Wellington Street, Queens Park i.e. a brick shed that would eventually become the laundry and carport. Queens Park had been chosen by his family as it was a new area where many migrants were settling. In 1955, his father completed the family home, in front of the shed, with the help of family and friends. John was enrolled in Year 7 at St. Patricks in Wellington Street after arriving in Perth, and joined many children from around the world who spoke a variety of languages. He and his family could not understand a word of English when they arrived here, so they struggled to interact with others at first. However, he learned to catch a steam train from Queens Park to Perth and then to walk to his school in the city. He graduated from Year 9, then left to undertake a course as a plumber. His first job was with the
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Public Works in 1955, and then he worked at A.J. Barnes, Swift Plumbing, Gavin Dewar and BG Company as a highly skilled and soughtafter plumber. John was also a Supervisor at BG Gregory Plumbing, one of the largest plumbing companies in Perth. During these working years, he had spent at least three years overall in northern WA mainly Tom Price and Dampier (general work), Christmas Island (renewing the pumping station/upgrading the water main between town and airport); in the Northern Territory - Gove (hospital plumbing) and Katherine (upgrading water mains), sometimes in several monthly stints. He was also in charge of jobs such as the Law Courts in Perth and interstate train stations such as Mt. Lawley. John was also married and divorced during these years. He had three children (Mark, Claire and Desley) with his then-wife. Meanwhile, over these years Margaret lived with her family in Kelmscott, had been schooled in that area and lived there until she was married. Sadly, she was then widowed with four young children (Sean, Kirk, Anita and Andre) to care for, five months after her husband, Max, was diagnosed with cancer. She had very little in the way of support systems to make life a bit easier and it was a challenge to bring up the children as she had planned but she persevered, working hard to provide a family environment while also working in the retail industry in Myer Perth and Aherns. She then met John and they provided mutual - mainly long distance - backup for each other over about five years, including going to the beach and fishing, before finally realising they would make a much better life for all concerned if they married. The seven children were very happy about the melding of the families in 1980,
Margaret and John Bouwhuis enjoy the retired lifestyle of Bentley Park
and two deserving adults had a second chance for a happy life, including raising a large family. Margaret continued working in the Perth Myer Store until she took up a 12-month beauty therapy course and then opened her own salon which she ran for nearly ten years. During that time, Margaret was a volunteer with Silver Chain and then Murdoch Hospice before going to Hollywood Hospice, where she carried out foot massage sessions for terminally ill people to help with their pain and anxiety. Over the years, Margaret and John have been on cruises from Amsterdam to Budapest and to Honolulu and around the Islands on a trip to New Zealand. They enjoyed both, especially visiting Amsterdam but were glad to return here. They retired in 2004 and now enjoy their retirement in the Akora Apartments in Bentley Park Retirement Village, after ‘some shopping around’. Both have made friends here and are kind and caring people who thoroughly enjoy the retired lifestyle and both are volunteers
for various activities here. Margaret is a parttime, regular SwanMobile driver, John enjoys woodwork at the Men’s Shed, while both are members of the 2019 Social Club Committee and volunteer for other roles as required in the Village. They have 11 grand-children and one great grand-child and spend a lot of happy time with their family and attending events in the Village. One of their grandsons, Ethan, wrote a school assignment in 2017 in which he wrote, among other things that John was his mentor and always there for him. He also quoted him as follows: “No worries, easy fixed.” and “Every day’s a gift.” I think that says it all! My thanks to Ethan for permission to use some of his research.
Food & Drink Quiz Answers (pg 12) 1. Wine 2. Edible seaweed 3. Apples 4. Pimento 5. Green 6. Orange 7. Up to 75,000 flowers (enough to fill a football pitch) 8. Chocopologie.
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Resident Story
Rejoice for Respite The dictionary defines respite as “a pause or rest from something difficult” – which is exactly what carers and dependents need from time to time. SwanCare Waminda offers a room within the permanent care area just for this purpose – a short-term respite stay. The space can be used for people who live inside or outside of the village and provides carers with a much-needed break and peace of mind that their loved one will be in great hands. Sometimes there can be a stigma on reaching for respite, but we don’t believe there should be. “Carers often put off their holidays, appointments, and even surgery to suit their dependant,” says SwanCare’s Resident Support Coordinator, Heather Laws. “It is very important for the carer’s physical and mental health to get away or have some down time without the stress that comes with being a carer. “Respite also gives an insight into permanent care and usually takes away any fears to do with care facilities – it is actually a nice place to be,” Heather said. The respite resident is offered a chance to get involved in various activities and to meet and chat to many new faces. Depending on their condition, they are welcome to come and go with family members too – just as long as they’re back for medication times.
“We were very particular about which home we wanted – 2 bedrooms, east facing – so we were happy to wait as long as it took” said Bill. “My Mother, Father, and two Aunties lived at SwanCare long before we lived here and we saw first-hand how good the facilities were – it only seemed natural to live here ourselves when the time came” Judy said. Judy recently booked a trip away and was unsure if Bill would remember to do everything he needed as he was quite sick. “Respite allows me peace of mind while I’m away knowing Bill will have all of his medications, night-time care if it is needed, three delicious meals per day, and that he is happy!” said Judy. Bill agrees. “The meals are really nice, we even get them delivered to our home when we have a particularly busy week socially,” Bill said. “I actually look forward to going into respite as I know Judy enjoys going on holidays and it’s a change of scenery for me – I enjoy the bingo, the singalongs, and the outings my daughters take me on. This time one of the outings was Bunnings, my favorite shop!” When Bill was well enough he even went back home to water his plants and check phone messages.
Judith (Judy) and William (Bill) Mackintosh have recently utilised SwanCare’s respite service and “Waminda staff are very good and they asked all sorts of questions about diet, medications highly recommend the experience. and what kind of care he required before I left – Judy and Bill have lived an amazing life raising they put me very at ease,” Judy said. “Waminda three wonderful daughters as well as a lifetime provided very good communication to my of worldly travels. Now their age has caught up daughters while I was away, which was fantastic. with them it makes it tough to travel, and with “They also welcomed and worked well with a line in the sand Bill is now no longer able to doctors from outside of the facility to continue enjoy overseas travel. care of Bill after having issues post-surgery. Judy and Bill moved into their SwanCare home “Bill is taking a lot of medications at the in 2006 after being on a wait list for 10 years! moment and at Waminda they started him on
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Judy and Bill Mackintosh are at ease with the idea of respite
Webster packs, we haven’t looked back since and higher care when it is eventually needed” Judy continue to use this service. You can actually said. learn a thing or two to help, while your loved “Hats off to SwanCare, we’re very happy here.” one is in care,” Judy said. Judy and Bill are at ease with the idea of respite, If you feel the need for a break please get into contact with: as they saw how helpful it was with Judy’s Mother and Father many years ago - a large age gap saw her Father go into care long before her Mother, but they were able to walk down the road and visit every day. “You can continue your previous life, just with a bit of help” said Bill.
“Nursing homes have come a long way since my parents were in one. Now they feel more homely, friendly, and staff are more personalized. All you need to do is factor respite care for your loved one into your holiday budget and book it well in advance– it’s as easy as that” Judy said.
Leanne LeBrun - Manager Admissions: Leanne.LeBrun@swancare.com.au or 6250 0250 Heather Laws - Resident Support Coordinator: Heather.Laws@swancare.com.au or 6250 0020 Mechy Scharlach - Manager SwanCare At Home: Mechy.Scharlach@swancare.com.au or 6250 0301 “I’d like to send a special acknowledgement to Leanne, Heather, and Mechy for always being there to answer any questions we have about care – we would be lost without you all.”
“We love living on a site that offers us both a place to call home and a place to go for respite or – Judy and Bill Mackintosh
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Recipes
Healthy mexi-chicken bake Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Serves: 4
Ingredients
Variations
• 2 onions, chopped • 2 capsicums, chopped • 2 x 420g cans baked beans (Mexican flavoured) • 400 g skinless chicken breast, sliced in half lengthways and chopped • 1 cup reduced-fat mozzarella cheese, grated
• Add chilli flakes and fresh coriander for extra flavour. • Mexican flavoured baked beans are usually in the supermarket with the baked beans. If unavailable, swap for: • No-added-salt baked beans + 1 tablespoon smoked paprika + 1 teaspoon ground coriander. • Red kidney beans or other beans + jar of salsa.
Method 1. Preheat oven to 220°C (200°C fan-forced). 2. Combine onion, capsicum and canned beans in a large ovenproof dish. 3. Place chicken pieces into bean mix and press down so they are covered by sauce. 4. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil, sprinkle with cheese and bake for a further 5 – 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese has browned. 5. Divide between plates and serve immediately. 6. Serve with tortillas, bread or rice.
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Adapted with permission from LiveLighter. LiveLighter® State of Western Australia 2019 www.livelighter.com.au
Healthy apricot custard flan Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Serves: 6
Ingredients
Variations
• • • • • • •
• Use 600g of any kind of fresh seasonal fruit or canned fruit (drained of natural juice) including peaches, plums, pears, apples, pitted cherries or frozen berries.
Olive or canola oil spray 1/4 cup plain flour 1 1/2 tbs caster sugar 2 eggs 1 cup low-fat milk 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 825 g canned apricots in natural juice, drained • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, optional
Method 1. Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan forced). 2. Spray a 22cm diameter shallow ovenproof dish with oil. 3. Combine flour, sugar, eggs, milk and vanilla in a bowl and mix well. 4. Place apricots with cut side down into dish, then pour egg mixture on top and sprinkle with cinnamon. 5. Bake for 30 minutes or until custard is set. 6. Stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Adapted with permission from LiveLighter. LiveLighter® State of Western Australia 2019 www.livelighter.com.au
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Letters to the Editor Dear Tidings Just a little humour for the next Tidings! Regards Glenice Sanders Thank you Glenice, it certainly brought a smile to my dial! Ed.
What Are Seniors Worth? Remember, old folks are worth a fortune with silver in their hair, gold in their teeth, stones in their kidneys, lead in their feet and gas in their stomachs. I have become a little older since I saw you last and a few changes have come into my life. Frankly, I have become a frivolous old girl. I'm seeing six gentlemen every day. As soon as I wake up Will Power helps me out of bed. Then I go to see John. Next it's time for Uncle Toby to come along, followed by Billy Tea. They leave and Arthur Ritis shows up and stays the rest of the day. He doesn't like to stay in one place very long so he takes me from joint to joint. After such a busy day I'm really tired and glad to go to bed with Johnny Walker. What a life! Oh yes, I'm also flirting with Al Zymer. P.S. The preacher came to see me the other day. He said that at my age I should be thinking about the hereafter. I told him, "Oh I do all the time. No matter where I am, if I'm in the parlour, upstairs, in the kitchen, or down in the basement, I ask myself, "Now, what am I here after?""
Penny's Book review ‘The Tattooist of Auschwitz’ by Heather Morris When I initially came across this book I thought, there was no way I would want to read what I thought would be too daunting and horrific. Turned out to be a beautiful true love story amongst the horror of captivity. The story tells of Gita and Lales’ truly remarkable survival in Auschwitz. Lales falls in love with Gita the first time he meets her when he is given the job of branding the prisoners with a number. A reminder of a horrific past and the lessons we should all learn about the bravery of those who survives under Hitler. It’s a biography that won’t be forgotten anytime soon. This book is available in the Bentley Park Library. Penny Felder, Bentley Park Librarian
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Out & About
Photos from 'Friday Fun Day' Launch of the '55+ in the Park' directory
Raffle winner Valerie Barrett with the Town of Victoria Park representatives and SwanCare CEO Graham Francis
Roving magician Robbie T entertains the crowd
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What’s On: Local Area The Crooners - Music Show! A very special, sophisticated show dedicated to the lives and music of those velvet toned performers known as the 'Crooners'. Voices that would soothe a savage beast and songs with words you could understand and relate to. Where: Willetton Public Library, 37 Burrendah Blvd, Willetton
Arts & Craft Workshop Decorative Paper Lanterns Free arts and craft workshop with local artist Paula Hart! This is just one of our monthly art workshops. Other dates for these workshops include September 10 and October 8.
When: Saturday, August 17, 2019, 10:00am – 11:00am Cost: Free. Bookings essential. Contact: Tickets at www.eventbrite.com (search The Crooners Willeton) or call 9229 9540
Where: Blue Craft Cube, down at Lower Henderson Court, Curtin University When: Tuesday, August 13, 2019 11am – 2pm (also September 10 and October 8) Contact: There's no need to book, just come by and stretch out those creative muscles!
Threatened Species Art Exhibition The artworks highlight the plight of our native plants, animals and natural areas. This year there will be a fluorescent art display with a focus on nocturnal species.
Good Food & Wine Show Perth 2019
Where: Canning River Eco Education Centre, corner Kent Street and Queens Park Road, Wilson
We're bringing you some of the best in local produce from across WA as well as Australia. Plus the opportunity to meet the makers and discover unique and new products in both food and beverage.
When: Friday 6 September - Monday 9 September, 9am – 4pm
Where: Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre When: Aug 23 to Aug 25 2019 • 23 Fri – 9.30am-4.30pm • 23 Fri – 5.30pm-9.30pm • 24 Sat –10am-6pm • 25 Sun – 10am-5pm
Cost: Free
Step Into Volunteering Free information session followed by morning tea to highlight the benefits and opportunities of volunteering. Where: Willetton Library, 37 Burrendah Blvd
Cost: From $20 entry.
When: Tuesday 20 August 2019, 10:30am to 11:30am
Contact: Visit www.goodfoodshow.com.au
Cost: Free
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Gardening Workshop - Plant Dr. (Pests & Diseases) Join a gardening expert on how to identify common pests and diseases that may affect your leafy friends and how you can go about saving them before it is too late!
Freestyle Embroidery Project for Adults Beginners and seasoned experts are welcome! There is something for all skill levels! Love embroidery? How about working together with others on a big embroidery project for your community? Join this exciting freestyle embroidery project! Where: Riverton Library, 67 Riley Road, Riverton When: Saturday, August 17, 2019, 10.30am – 2.30pm Cost: Free Contact: 9231 0944
Annual Show and WA State Orchid Championships A show by the South Eastern Orchid Society of WA for all ages to see the exquisite Orchid’s and chat to their growers, as well as many Orchid’s for sale. This event will also have other non-orchid plants for sale! Where: Cannington Exhibition Centre cnr Albany Hwy and Station Street, Cannington When: Saturday 24 August 9am-6pm and Sunday 25 August 9am – 3pm Cost: $5 Contact: Sue Pearson 0407 718 377 or email jayenss3@bigpond.com
Where: Green Garden Cube, Atkinson Forum (across from the Koi Pond), Curtin University When: Tuesday, August 20, 2019 12:30pm – 1:30pm Cost: Free
Southside Symphony Orchestra SSSO will be presenting an uplifting programme of music for celebrations including: Roman Carnival – Berlioz, Trombone Concertino – David, and Symphony No. 5 – Mendelssohn. Where: South Perth Civic Centre When: Aug 11, 2.30pm – 4.30pm Cost: From $15 Contact: Danielle on 0415 678 905
Facebook 101 Join the experts from Technologically Speaking, as they run through everything you need to know about Facebook. Where: Riverton Library, 67 Riley Road When: Aug 10, 10.00am – 12.00pm Cost: Free Contact: Register at www.eventbrite.com (search Facebook 101)
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swancare.com.au 26 Plantation Drive Bentley WA 6102 | Phone: (08) 6250 0000 | Fax: (08) 9470 2017
We welcome contributions to the Tidings. Please post or email to: Mailing Address: 26 Plantation Drive Bentley WA 6102 Email: news@swancare.com.au
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