ECHo! Issue 158 February 2016 by WorldWeb Group

ECHo! Issue 158

THE CIRCUS COMES TO ECH www.ech.asn.au

Contents 3 Dear readers,

4 5 8

This year ECH is supporting a significant community event on Saturday, March 19 for Alzheimer’s Australia SA called Memory Walk & Jog, and we will pay for the first 20 readers who would like to take part. Details about the event are on page 4. This edition features some wonderful stories, including a collaborative exercise program between ECH and Cirkidz (page 2); ECH Home Services member Kathleen Besanko’s 100th birthday (page 3); an inspiring life story of Victor Harbor resident Hugh McClelland (page 5); some social photos from the Smithy’s Place Christmas lunch (page 11); and Kelvin Grove’s outing to the Fleurieu Peninsula (page 12). We hope you enjoy this issue. If you have a story or news you would like to share please phone Alexandra Nowak on 8407 5135.

COVER IMAGE. SUE BELL WITH HER GRANDCHILDREN MATILDA AND OSCAR DURING A CIRKIDZ SESSION AT NORTH EAST WELLNESS IN JANUARY. PHOTO CREDIT. STEPHEN LAFFER | NEWSPIX

ECH teams up with summer circus school .........................

John’s hidden talent comes to life .............................................

Queen of travel celebrates 100 years ......................................

There’s no place like home .............................................................

Join the race against dementia .....................................................

Christmas lunch shared at ECH Smithy’s Place ...........

ECH helps Kelvin Grove village beat the heat ...............

Companionship and creativity at Causeway Connection .........................................................................

Poetry..................................................................................................................

Ella’s gift giving all year round ...................................................

North East Wellness to host diabetes info sessions ............................................................................

A legacy like no other ............................................................................

A growing way of life .............................................................................

Dorothy’s positive attitude keeps her independent .........................................................................

Let’s get cooking ....................................................................................... 15

Scooter recharge stations up and running..........................

2016 holiday unit booking form .................................................

Joyful end to a successful year .....................................................

PLEASE SHARE THIS PUBLICATION WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS. OPINIONS QUOTED IN THIS PUBLICATION ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE EDITORIAL TEAM OR THE ECH BOARD OF DIRECTORS OR MANAGEMENT.

PRINTED AND CERTIFIED SUSTAINABLE GREEN PRINT (SGP) PRINTED ON (FSC) STOCK USING 100% VEGETABLE BASED PROCESS INKS.

WELLNESS PROGRAMS

ECH teams up with summer circus school ECH and circus school Cirkidz teamed up in January to deliver a fun school holiday program that parents and grandparents enjoyed with their children and grandchildren. The program, which was offered on January 19 at ECH Seaside Wellness in Henley Beach and January 28 at ECH North East Wellness in Greenacres, was suitable for children and adults from two-and-ahalf to 80, of all fitness and mobility levels. Each 50 minute session was hosted by a Cirkidz trainer, who brought juggling and balancing equipment, hoops and diablos, for a fun and interactive afternoon. This intergenerational activity provided the opportunity for parents and grandparents to enjoy time with the children in a fun environment. Laughter brings many benefits, and learning circus activities at any age is likely to be the cause of great merriment. Mobility and flexibility can decrease with age so finding interesting ways to exercise is important. The ECH and Cirkidz school holiday program promoted exercise with the added bonus of providing an enjoyable activity that could be shared with children in the family. Stay tuned for updates on the next Cirkidz event. Call ECH on 1300 275 324 or visit www.ech.asn.au to find out more.

ECHo! ISSUE 158

HOME SERVICES

Queen of travel celebrates 100 years

World I,

Happily sitting in her living room watching TV, ECH Home Services member Kathleen Besanko is not at all fazed by the fact she celebrated her 100th birthday on Christmas Eve 2015. “I don’t feel any different,” she says. “It wasn’t something I ever used to think about. The years just floated on. I would see write ups on people who turned 100 and I would laugh and say, ‘Gee I hope I never get to that age!’” Born during World War I, Kathleen spent her teenage years, after attending Norwood Public School, supporting her family by working full time at Myer - the only job she ever had. “When I left school during The Great Depression things were very tough and I was forced to get a job,” she recalls. “I never went and did the next level like so many did. You would never say you wanted to leave your job as work was so scarce. I stayed there for about 15 years, until I left to get married.” Kathleen and Malcolm enjoyed a happy marriage but Malcolm wasn’t the avid traveller like Kathleen was, so over the years he would stay close to home and their local bowling club while Kathleen travelled overseas once a year with one of her daughters, Judy, until she reached 90. “Malcolm didn’t mind at all,” Kathleen says. “Judy and I are good friends and we got on very well together. We were very lucky. Every year without fail we did an overseas trip.” When she wasn’t travelling, Kathleen spent most of her time at the Goodwood Social Club or the Clarence Gardens Bowling Club with Malcolm, where they were members, preparing sandwiches

3 and afternoon tea. Kathleen also volunteered with Julia Farr at Fullarton for 30 years, in their op shops on Duthy Street, Salisbury Crescent and Goodwood Road, as well as for Meals on Wheels for 18 years where she received life membership. “At The Repat kitchen with Meals on Wheels we would collect meals to deliver to residents in the surrounding districts,” she recalls. “I really enjoyed that. It was one of the best things I ever did. Between the social and bowls club as well as volunteering, they were pretty long days. I’m lucky I had good legs!” Evidently, Kathleen’s enthusiastic attitude and strong work ethic has positively influenced her family and many people around her.

Her well-deserved 100th birthday celebrations are testament to this. Judy and her sister Patricia, who flew from her home in Canada for the occasion, organised a limousine to take Kathleen and a group of friends to Mount Osmond Golf Club for an afternoon High Tea. A special thrill was the surprise visit of Mitcham Mayor Glenn Spear and his wife Tracey. “We all had a lovely time,” Kathleen says. “It was really exciting.” 1. KATHLEEN WITH THE MAYOR OF MITCHAM, GLENN SPEAR, AND HER TWO DAUGHTERS, PATRICIA GREENWOOD FROM VANCOUVER, CANADA (LEFT) AND JUDITH ARNOLD (RIGHT) 2. KATHLEEN WITH HER DAUGHTER JUDITH ON ONE OF THEIR OVERSEAS HOLIDAYS 3. A GROUP OF KATHLEEN’S GUESTS AT THE CELEBRATORY HIGH TEA AT MOUNT OSMOND GOLF CLUB

UPCOMING EVENTS

ECHo! ISSUE 158

Join the race against dementia ECH, in conjunction with Alzheimer’s Australia SA, will support the 2016 Adelaide Memory Walk & Jog at Colley Reserve on Saturday, March 19 by entering an ECH staff team and offering free registration for the first 20 ECH residents/customers who would like to register. Please phone Alexandra Nowak on 8407 5135 as soon as possible if you are interested in registering. The event is an annual fun run and walk that provides an ideal opportunity to raise muchneeded funds for a worthwhile cause while building awareness to support local people living with dementia and their carers. The event offers participants three options a 3km walk; 6km walk; or 7km run. Everyone in the community is encouraged to either take part in the event or donate. Visit www.memorywalk.com.au or phone the SA office on 8372 2100 for more information.

ECH STAFF SUE BELL, SUE GONIS, CAROL KENNELLY, VICTORIA YONG AND SHU-AI CHO ENCOURAGE EVERYONE TO TAKE PART IN THE ADELAIDE MEMORY WALK & JOG.

Time: 7am - 1pm Location: Colley Reserve, Glenelg Cost: Child under 5 years: Free | Child: $10 Adult: $20 | Senior: $10 Family: (2 parents + 2 children or 2 seniors) $50 Corporate team: (5 members) $80

North East Wellness to host diabetes info sessions ECH’s four-week type 2 diabetes group session will start on March 2 from 10am to 12pm at North East Wellness. The group is for everyone who has type 2 diabetes. Come along if you are newly diagnosed or for a refresher if you have had the condition for a while.

The group runs for four weeks on the following dates: March 2, March 9, March 16 and March 23. Topics covered will include how to manage diabetes (diet, exercise, blood glucose levels, and medications); label reading; eating out and take away; recipe modification; and much more. To be eligible to access these group sessions with no gap to pay you must have type 2 diabetes and a current Enhanced Primary Care Plan in place. The care plan visits can be assigned to any allied health provider (podiatrist, physiotherapist, dietitian etc). If you take part in these groups, you can access an additional one-on-one assessment with the dietitian, as well as four group sessions - all on top of your five existing care plan visits. So even if you have used all of your care plan visits for 2015 you can still access this service, without paying a gap. You can also bring a friend/family member/carer with you. If you have type 2 diabetes but do not have an Enhanced Primary Care Plan call us on 8361 5350 to discuss attending the classes. North East Wellness is located at 1/19-21 Fosters Road, Greenacres.

ECHo! ISSUE 158

INDEPENDENT RETIREMENT LIVING

A legacy like no other Hugh McClelland, one of the last living members of a crew that performed more than 440 operational hours during WWII and survived the entire war without a single casualty, was honoured to present an award at the 605 Squadron Royal Australian Air Force Cadet end of year parade in December 2015.

In what he describes as “a lovely day”, Hugh proudly presented the Normandy Veterans’ Award for Community Service to a cadet sergeant (pictured top left). It was a special honour for Hugh, whose life story is nothing short of extraordinary. Fascinated by flying from a very early age, Hugh was a foundation member of an Air Training Corps branch in Bendigo at just 16 where he learnt the theory of flight, aircraft construction, air navigation, Morse code, meteorology and much more. “It was all good grounding for the years ahead,” he says. “On the completion of a course in 1943, I applied to become a Commissioned Officer and on October 14 I received my air gunner’s wing badge and was appointed Pilot Officer. Very few air gunners received a Commission at this stage. I believe I was the youngest ever appointed.” On April 20 1944, mid-upper gunner Hugh and his crew had their “first taste of action” in the city of Tours, France. From then on, Hugh and his crew flew 34 missions and encountered frequent harrowing events.

“We carried out 12 night and 21 day operations and our aircraft was damaged on 21 occasions,” he says. “Statistically, we had less than one in four chances of surviving the tour. We believe that we shot down four German fighter aircraft. I used to hum The Warsaw Concerto to myself as a personal security when we were in our worst possible operational spots.

“I make no claim to have been brave and fearless. The truth is that on every operational flight my emotions ranged between scared and terrified, and I believe that without the support of my mentor (rear gunner) Maurie it is unlikely I could have stood the strain. “Our crew members were extremely fortunate that none of us received any serious physical damage. However, we all have long term mental stress. At the end of the war I swore that I would never again touch a gun, and I haven’t.” Hugh and his wife Alda, who happily reside in ECH’s Hill Court village at Victor Harbor, understandably become emotional when reflecting on the traumatic experiences Hugh lived through. “There was a time I was getting posttraumatic stress disorder and someone suggested I write my memoirs, so I did,” Hugh says. “I felt the need to preserve my memories of those days.”

HOME SERVICES

ECHo! ISSUE 158

A growing way of life

Thanks to the support of handyman Richard Watson, ECH Home Services member Philipa Piliouras’s garden has been sustained and she can continue to enjoy the fresh produce she once grew with her late husband. “ECH teed me up a year ago to come and help out with the garden every two weeks,” Richard says. “The garden bed was really overgrown and I said to Philipa, ‘Have you thought about getting the vegies going again?’ and that was the start of it. I do whatever I can, like cutting the lawn and spraying the weeds, some window cleaning, and other little repair jobs. When I first started the roses hadn’t been pruned for two or three years so we cut those back fairly heavily and we started to get flowers cutting through. I prune the olive and fig trees, which I’d never done before so it was a great way to learn. There is nothing better than being taught by an expert.” Philipa, who has lived in her home since 1961, spent decades with her husband nurturing the garden and using the produce, including capsicum, tomato, spinach

and zucchini, to make traditional Greek meals for her family, which she still does. “My husband, he was number one for the garden,” Philipa says. “Every week my grandchildren and great grandchild visit me and I feed them, and the neighbours too. I can’t bend much anymore but can do some watering and still do all the cooking, cleaning and washing. This gives me a good reason to still come into the back yard.” The produce is not the only thing that has blossomed from Richard’s time in the garden. The respect and friendship that has developed between Richard and Philipa has been beneficial to both of them.

“This has very much been a joint effort,” Richard says. “I put the plants in the ground and pull the weeds out and Philipa attends to the watering and care. It really is rewarding to see someone getting back into the garden and enjoying it. Philipa loved it and she is not physically able to do what she used to but this is still her garden. It’s nice to be able to help make these sorts of things happen.”

ECHo! ISSUE 158

LIVING WELL PROGRAM

Dorothy’s positive attitude keeps her independent For Dorothy Cheeseman life is “just beginning” and is there to be lived to the fullest. Despite having resided in ECH’s Arnold Court village at Kurralta Park for only six months, Dorothy has wasted no time settling into her new abode and making friends in the community.

Through joining ECH’s Living Well Program, Dorothy was introduced to a University of the Third Age art and mosaic group at a local community centre, which enabled her to continue creating her passion for art. “I was willing to meet new people,” she says. “Meeting people is so important. You can take anything you’re working on and sit with a group of people who are all very nice and chatty. I even met a lady there who went to the same school as me. It’s opened up a new era for me, it’s just wonderful.” A former dressmaker and tailoress, Dorothy has always loved working with fabric and haphazard materials that she can turn into stunning pieces of art. “I like to think outside the square, so I create a lot of things,” she says. “Mum was an upholsterer and also a sewer and she always tossed fabric on the floor which interested me to make things for my dolls. It is so important to find a passion that gives you fulfilment and joy. I still continue to this day.”

As important as it is to keep her mind stimulated, Dorothy also loves the benefits of keeping physically active. “It is vital that we exercise,” she says.

“I see many people in my age group with walking frames and it’s something that can be prevented. I feel lively and healthy, have kept a good sense of humour and my mind active.” Between attending the art groups, making rugs and curtains, painting her own furniture, exercising, and being a wonderfully doting grandmother and great grandmother, Dorothy could not be happier. “I am open to anything that can improve my independence,” she says. “If I can do it I will find a way. I’ve got so much to do around the place I am happy in my own company and also enjoy being with people and helping where necessary. If you think you’re old I guess you can become old so enjoy life and laugh, and laugh at yourself. My life is beginning, it really is.”

OUR COMMUNITY

Scooter recharge stations up and running

ECHo! ISSUE 158

Recharge point locations include

ECH MEMBER MARGARET OUTJERS USES A RECHARGE STATION AT ST PETERS LIBRARY.

With an increasing number of people using mobility scooters or motorised wheelchairs, a potential concern for users is about becoming stranded due to flat batteries. Recharge points are now available for people who use mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs so they can top up their batteries while they are out and about. Recharge Scheme Australia was developed to support those who use mobility scooters or motorised wheelchairs to travel safely. People can recharge their vehicles at participating councils and businesses.

Payneham Swimming Centre; RAA Shop - Hindmarsh Square; Prospect Library; Unley Swimming Centre; City of Prospect Civic Centre; Campbelltown Library; City of Campbelltown; Burnside Community Centre; City of Burnside Civic Centre; Pepper Street Arts Centre; City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters Civic Centre; Norwood Town Hall; Payneham Library; St Peters Library; Payneham Community Centre; City of Unley Civic Centre; City of Unley Library; Goodwood Community Centre; Unley Community Centre; Fullarton Community Centre; South Australian Museum; Department for Communities and Social Inclusion; Town of Walkerville; Women’s and Children’s Hospital; Adelaide Bus Station; Hutt Street Library; Adelaide City Library; North Adelaide Community Centre and Library Recharge Point logos (pictured) are displayed on the windows of participating locations and there are also Recharge Point logos placed above or near the power points which have been designated for use. For further information about the Recharge Scheme Australia please visit www.rechargescheme.org.au.

SOUTHERN WELLNESS

Joyful end to a successful year at ECH Southern Wellness On December 22 around 70 members gathered at ECH Southern Wellness for the annual Christmas morning tea. Though space and seating was tight, all enjoyed getting together for food, conversation and entertainment, which was provided by country music singer Amy Lea, and musical theatre singer Renee Dix. ECH Southern Wellness member Neil took up an impromptu invitation to sing, and delighted the crowd with his acappella rendition of I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas.

ECH Southern Wellness staff served morning tea and drinks and everyone joined together to sing We Wish you a Merry Christmas. It was a great celebration to end a successful year of exercise and group programs at ECH Southern Wellness.

ECHo! ISSUE 158

S E A S I D E R S D AY P R O G R A M

John’s hidden talent comes to life For someone who has “never touched a paintbrush”, John Finlay’s suite of artwork is proof that it is never too late to start a hobby. It was only after joining an ECH Seaside Wellness exercise group more than 10 years ago to support his Parkinson’s Disease that John became aware of an art therapy group through ECH Seasiders Day Program that supports members living with dementia. “I had never touched a paintbrush in my life apart from in primary school,” John says.

“I joined the art class and the staff said to try and paint something. I did and they said I am pretty good. “I like painting trees more than anything else. I like the company and chatting to other people. All the staff are A1 plus. They would do anything for you.” John’s wife and carer Joy cannot speak highly enough of the positive outcomes the group has provided them both with. “They all say John’s artwork is lovely,” Joy says. “The art teachers there say John has a unique way of doing trees. John is always anxious to get going to Seasiders - every Friday morning he is out the front of the house waiting for the ECH bus to pick him up. It is also good for me as I can have a day to myself and spend time volunteering in the op shop.”

HOME SERVICES

ECHo! ISSUE 158

There’s no place like home

The support of ECH Home Services is enabling two sisters to live independently in their cherished family home on a farm at Mylor. Flo and Violet Ewing are two of five siblings who were born and raised on their parents’ farm and continue to live there. Their other siblings Fred and Bert (with the exception of Elsie who passed away seven years ago) make weekly trips to the 60-acre farm to spend time with Violet and Flo, maintain the beef cattle and assist Flo with the household and farming duties. Violet, who is 89 and lives with dementia, is cared for around the clock by Flo. For Violet to stay in the family home is the most important thing to Flo and her brothers. “Violet would never stand being in a nursing home,” Flo says. “She’s so private and careful and we all respect her for that. She sleeps a lot and her feet aren’t working so well and she can hardly walk so we all walk with her. She likes being around us and she just adores the boys. Seeing them lifts her whole day. Bert comes and gives her a kiss and she smiles. Even if she is down that day she will improve in spirit with him there and Fred gives her a hug and kiss too and she feels so secure.

2 When the ECH staff come she always offers them something.”

ECH Home Services staff visit the sisters once a week to give Flo respite. They assist with showering Violet and cleaning around the house. “It’s been wonderful,” Flo says. “The staff are very warm and love to chat and they are very good with Violet.”

The incomparable bond shared between Violet, Flo, Fred and Bert is unmistakable. It is obvious the love and energy Flo and her brothers pour into Violet gives her strength and liveliness, and the smile on her face when she awakes and recognises her siblings around her reminds them it is all worth it. “We are lucky to be here,” Bert says. “We’re happy with what we do and we want to hang onto it.” 1. FRED, FLO AND BERT ON THE VERANDAH OF THEIR FAMILY FARM AT MYLOR 2. THE EWING SIBLINGS WITH THEIR PARENTS 3. FLO AND VIOLET

S M I T H Y ’ S P L AC E DAY P R O G R A M

ECHo! ISSUE 158

Christmas lunch shared at ECH Smithy’s Place ECH Smithy’s Place Day Program held their 2015 Christmas party for members, their carers, and staff on December 14. A roast and vegetable lunch was enjoyed by all, followed by entertainment from singer Judy Morris.

5 8

10 7

1. RONA APLIN AND JUDI MORRIS 2. PATRICIA AND BERYL BERESFORD 3. LIZ FOSTER, CARILYN ROWE, DAVE SHERWOOD, HERB FOSTER AND GLEN FOSTER 4. VERONICA AND KEN TROMANS 5. TED SAUNDERS, MARGARET RUSH AND JOAN AND FRANK HESLOP 6. FREDA MALDEN AND RUTH WELCOME 7. GAIL ELLIS, CHARLI BOOKER AND MAUREEN ROSS 8. SMITHY’S PLACE STAFF ELAINE NEWELL AND SUSAN KATH 9. JEAN AND DENNIS GUEST 10. SERGIO RUSSO AND ROLAND COOPER 11. JOAN VIANT, MAUREEN AND LEN BUNCE AND SERGIO RUSSO 12. SMITHY’S PLACE STAFF JEN HARBOUR AND MYA BALLOCH 13. MARIANNE RYLES AND BERYL BERESFORD 14. MONIKA AND MARIANNE RYLES

INDEPENDENT RETIREMENT LIVING

ECHo! ISSUE 158

ECH helps Kelvin Grove village beat the heat

6 7

Members of Kelvin Grove village at Lockleys enjoyed a day out with ECH in January while a pre-planned nine-hour power outage occurred on a 38째C day, caused by an SA Power Networks upgrade. To ensure members enjoyed a comfortable day, two options were offered - a bus outing to Victor Harbor or an afternoon at ECH Seasiders Day Program at Henley Beach. Twenty members attended the bus outing where they shared lunch at a local cafe then visited Alexandrina Cheese Company and Harvest the Fleurieu where they could purchase locally grown produce. Three members attended Seasiders Day Program where they had the opportunity to participate in social and recreational activities, watch TV, read, make craft items and have lunch.

Alternatively, members could make their own arrangements and spend time with family and friends, however were not advised to spend the day at their unit. Power was restored by around 5pm. Pictured are some photos taken during the outing.

1. RUSSELL ILES OUTSIDE ALEXANDRINA CHEESE COMPANY 2. LINDA EYERS, VAL EVANS, ROMA JOHNSON, LEONIE BRAUER, ELLA BEARD, MORVA FAWCETT, ELEANOR MARGGRAFF AND MOIRA OLDFIELD 3. MEMBERS BUY FRESH PRODUCE AT HARVEST THE FLEURIEU 4. JOHN MCGARRY, ELLA BEARD AND VAL EVANS 5. MORVA AND ALLAN FAWCETT 6. VISITING ALEXANDRINA CHEESE COMPANY 7. LINDA EYERS AND ROMA JOHNSON

ECHo! ISSUE 158

C A U S E WAY C O N N E C T I O N

Companionship and creativity at Causeway Connection Causeway Connection* is a centre-based social program whose primary focus is the provision of respite for carers who are caring for someone at home. It creates opportunities for forming friendships and social contact for older people who may not be able to get out and about easily because of mobility restrictions or memory loss. The program caters for people aged 65 and over, or 50 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Currently operating from the Victor Harbor Lutheran Church at 21 Adelaide Road Victor Harbor, Causeway Connection is for carers of people living across the Southern Fleurieu region.

Causeway Connection staff profiles Position: Social Opportunities Assistant

Carers are invited to drop into the centre at any time to see what is happening and seek information from our friendly team of staff. Causeway Connection activity choices include exercises, board games and puzzles, crafts, gardening, outings, involvement in the community and much more. The focus is on wellbeing and enjoyment, providing opportunities for members including those with memory loss to be creative, seek new experiences and socialise in a friendly and welcoming small group environment. Sessions are varied, providing support that suits each person and their interests. Causeway Connection operates from 9am to 4pm Tuesday and Friday with plans to increase the number of days per week as demand increases. Assistance with transport can be provided. Tuesday is a mixed group and Friday is men’s clubs providing support and activities designed for our male members.

Name:

Cassie Skewes

Position: Social Opportunities Assistant

Name:

David Bartlett

“My role involves caring for people with varied needs and giving them opportunities to express themselves through activities and in one-on-one time. There are several benefits of the program, including a day of rest for the carers, offering a safe secure environment for members of the program, and letting the members exercise their bodies and minds through mental and physical activities. Members have the great opportunity to develop new friendships.” Position: Social Opportunities Assistant

For more information or to come and have a look around contact Causeway Connection staff on 0439 703 492 or email causewayconnection@ech.asn.au.

*Causeway Connection was formerly Ross Robertson Day Respite and transitioned from its location at Ross Robertson in October 2015.

“My role at Causeway Connection is to keep company with members of the community in a safe environment, prompting social activities and interaction with other people in a small group situation. The program gives the opportunity for carers and family to have the day off, to be able to plan their day of personal time knowing their partner/parent is safe and spending time away from their usual home environment, seeing, doing, and being involved with other people. I get paid for doing a job I love. No two days are ever the same. How lucky am I?”

Name:

Nicole Briggs

“The benefits I see for members at Causeway Connection are a real sense of joy being able to participate in social activities and build friendships. Members experience an increased sense of dignity, being able to express themselves in a supportive and caring environment. Our program is vital in our community as it enables members to live at home longer and to enjoy an enhanced quality of life. Our team is caring, passionate and fun and we all work in so well together.”

INDEPENDENT RETIREMENT LIVING

Poetry

ECHo! ISSUE 158

Ella’s gift giving all year round ECH village Kelvin Grove at Lockleys has its very own Santa Claus, all year round. For the past 12 years, member Ella Beard has been visiting everyone in the village at special times of the year Australia Day, Easter, Christmas etc - to give them all a little gift. This is a tradition Ella carried on from when she lived in her own home.

I cried in church Only once have I cried in church, No, not for sins forgiven me. Near fifty years ago, it was, With wife and son, a one-year old, I went to church and there was asked To speak about my pilgrimage In Christian life and work and home. While doing this as best I could To congregation from the front, My little boy, left with his mum, With tott’ring steps, walked up the aisle And as he came, how plaintively His cry of “Daddy!” called to me. Unplanned I burst out crying then, Returned to seat but still I sobbed Why was it, I have wondered since? A younger self I saw in him And mourned the fact that not for me Was loving bond with father then? I wonder, when a wand’rer Turns away at last from sin, How the God in Heaven feels When he claims Him as his kin. John Chick David Read Lodge, Lockleys

“A week before Christmas just gone I dressed up as Mother Christmas and took a bonbon around to everyone with a butterfly on it and they loved it,” she says. “I had decorations in my front window and out the front and people came from all around to take photos. I received some lovely cards and chocolates. I dress up as a bunny at Easter, and on Valentine’s Day I take everyone a chocolate heart. On Mother’s Day I make a little posse of flowers. I love people and thank them for being a lovely neighbour and for the wonderful times we’ve had here.”

MEAL IDEAS

ECHo! ISSUE 158

Let’s get cooking This information has been developed by our Independent Living Services Information Officer Hayley Adamson who has worked in past roles as an Accredited Practising Dietitian.

Welcome to this section in ECHo! which is all about food. In each edition we will bring you meal ideas, recipes, and general information about food safety, minimising wastage, and making meals enjoyable.

Chicken & Vegie Stir Fry (serves 2)

During the summer months many people tend to choose more salads and fresh fruit to cool down or if they don’t want to heat up the house by cooking.

1 cup rice

When it’s very hot, don’t forget to keep eating and drinking even if you don’t feel like it. Aim for at least 8 glasses of fluid each day (unless directed by your doctor) and even more in hot weather or when sweating more than usual. Eating and drinking at regular times can prevent dehydration and keep you strong through the hot weather.

Spray oil

Fruits and vegetables can help you achieve these fluid requirements. Provided below are some lighter meals that require minimal cooking and can provide you with extra fluid on these hot days.

100g chicken (small breast or thigh) cut in strips or even sized pieces 1 clove garlic crushed 1

/2 medium onion, chopped

1 medium carrot, chopped Small stick of celery, chopped 1 cup cabbage, chopped 1

/2 red capsicum, chopped

1 teaspoon cornflour 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1

/2 cup chicken stock

Summer Waldorf Salad

/2 tablespoon sweet chilli sauce

Cook the rice according to the packet directions.

(serves 2)

While it’s cooking, heat oil in a pan or wok and stir fry the chicken until almost cooked. Set aside.

2 celery sticks diced

Add the vegetables and garlic to the pan for 2-3 minutes then put the chicken back in.

1 medium green apple, peeled and diced

Mix the sauces, stock and cornflour in a bowl until smooth, then pour into the stir fry. Heat through and serve with the rice.

50g feta cheese, crumbled 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts

Note: almost any vegetables can be used in this stir fry. Try frozen mixed vegetables straight from the bag. Simply cook until hot through.

2 tablespoons mayonnaise Juice of half a lemon 1 green (spring) onion finely chopped Combine the walnuts, celery, apple, feta and onion in a large bowl. Whisk the mayonnaise and lemon juice together in a small bowl, then pour over the celery mixture and toss to combine. Optional: add a tin of tuna or some chopped BBQ chicken and combine. Spring onion could be replaced with common onion, chives, or skipped completely.

Tomato & Mushroom Bruschetta

Lightly fry the tomato, mushroom, garlic and herbs with the olive oil.

(makes 2 slices)

Add the lemon juice and balsamic vinegar.

1 ripe tomato, chopped

While the tomato mixture is heating, toast the bread.

1-2 medium mushrooms, chopped 1

/2 -1 clove of fresh garlic, chopped

finely

A squeeze of lemon juice 1-2 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon olive oil 2 slices of bread

Spoon the tomato mixture onto your toast and place under a pre-heated griller for a few minutes if desired. Optional: 1/4 teaspoon of dried herbs: rosemary, sage or parsley. Note: use any bread but ciabatta loaf is particularly good.

We would love to hear your feedback, questions or ideas you may have. Please email Alexandra at anowak@ech.asn.au or phone 8407 5135.

2016 HOLIDAY UNIT BOOKING FORM

ECHo! ISSUE 158

Holiday unit bookings Please complete the form below and return it to: ECH Village Management 358 Findon Road Kidman Park 5025 Ph: 8159 4700

ECH provides two well appointed holiday units at Ardrossan and Victor Harbor which are available to independent retirement living unit residents. Making a booking is as easy as completing the form opposite, cutting it out and returning it to ECH’s Office at Kidman Park. The holiday units at Ardrossan and Victor Harbor are two bedroom, catering for a maximum of four people (one double bed and two singles).

NAME ADDRESS

PHONE MOBILE

ARDROSSAN Unit 14, 32 Oval Terrace FEE FOR SEVEN NIGHT STAY (Please select your preference)

1 person/per night $20 = $140.00 2 people/per night $30 = $210.00 3 people/per night $45 = $315 .00 4 people/per night $60 = $420.00 Note: No taxi service is available. Bus service arrives at Ardrossan in the evening.

VICTOR HARBOR Unit 13, 7 Acraman Street

A few things to remember: •

The holiday booking is for seven nights.

•

Your week commences on a Thursday with check in after 2pm and check out prior to 10am the following Thursday.

•

You will receive a phone call upon receipt of your booking request.

•

You will also receive a confirmation letter one month prior to your holiday with all the relevant information about what you need to take with you.

FEE FOR SEVEN NIGHT STAY (Please select your preference)

1 person/per night $20 = $140.00 2 people/per night $30 = $210.00 3 people/per night $45 = $315.00 4 people/per night $60 = $420.00

Preferred dates

Call us on 8159 4700 to find out more.

ECH Inc 174 Greenhill Road Parkside SA 5063 Telephone: 08 8407 5151 • Facsimile: 08 8407 5130 Email: admin@ech.asn.au • Website: www.ech.asn.au

174 Greenhill Road

Parkside

5063

8407 5151 1300 275 324

Independent Retirement Living Retirement Living

Independent living unit enquiries

8407 5115

Independent Living Services

For independent living unit members

8407 5111

Property Services

For independent living unit members

8159 4700

Community Services Home Services Clarence Gardens

913-915 South Road

Clarence Gardens

5039

8113 6500

Greenacres

1/1 Rellum Road

Greenacres

5086

8361 5300

Kidman Park

358 Findon Road

Kidman Park

5025

8159 4740

Mount Barker

5/2-4 Cameron Road

Mount Barker

5251

8391 4600

Victor Harbor

33 Cornhill Road

Victor Harbor

5211

8551 0617

Causeway Connection

Victor Harbor Lutheran Church 21 Adelaide Road

Victor Harbor

5211

0439 703 492

Seasiders Day Program

11 Laidlaw Street

Henley Beach

5022

8356 5398

Smithy’s Place Day Program

1a Warooka Drive

Smithfield

5114

8407 5250

Southern Day Program

Corner Jade Crescent and Hay Street

Happy Valley

5159

8381 4901

Sundowner Plus

11 Laidlaw Street

Henley Beach

5022

8356 5398

Walkerville Day Program

160 Walkerville Terrace

Walkerville

5081

8407 5285

North East Wellness

1/19-21 Fosters Road

Greenacres

5086

8361 5350

Seaside Wellness

168a Cudmore Terrace

Henley Beach

5022

8356 3169

Southern Wellness

126 Pimpala Road

Morphett Vale

5162

8322 5700

Victor Harbor Wellness

33 Cornhill Road

Victor Harbor

5211

8551 9100

Social Programs

Wellness Programs