ECHo! Issue 151 June 2014 by WorldWeb Group

ISSUE No. 151 | 2014

ECH shifts focus

Contents

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ECHo! ISSUE No. 151 | 2014

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. Cover image: Oakden Estate residents Trevor and Margaret Davy (back) and Ann and Landi Konstantinov (front) enjoy spending time in their village.

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

Published June 2014. Printed and certified to AS/NZS ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management Systems. Printed on (FSC) stock using 100% vegetable based process inks.

ECH shifts focus

Lest we forget the fallen heroes

Social group brings residents together

A happy spirit thrives at Cungena

ECH champions Dignity in Care

ECH supports older people to remain living at home

Many helping hands make life easier for Mervyn and Elizabeth

In-home support gives Beryl freedom to enjoy life

ECH commissions groundbreaking research

Bright Sparks blossom in residential care

Beryl makes the most out of every day

Making a splash for mobility

Hydrotherapy is helping Viv heal

Albaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always on the positive side of life

Changing lives one ride at a time

A second chance at love

Residents improve their health through yoga and meditation

Furry friends bring smiles to many residents

New skills for our grounds team

Enhancing communication through modern technology

Miky brings a unique gift to Ridgehaven Residential Care Centre

Living better through the Living Well Program

ECH Consumer Reference Group gives clients more say

Social Pages

Strong family history lives through generations

2014 Holiday unit booking form

174 Greenhill Road

Parkside

5063

8407 5151

askECH

174 Greenhill Road

Parkside

5063

1300 275 324

Independent Retirement Living Retirement Living Independent Living Services Property and Facilities Management

Independent living unit enquiries For independent living unit residents

8407 5115 8407 5111

For independent living unit residents

8159 4700

Community Services In-home Programs Clarence Gardens Greenacres Kidman Park Mount Barker Tiwi Victor Harbor

913-915 South Road 1/1 Rellum Road 358 Findon Road 5/2-4 Cameron Road 11 Creswell Street 33 Cornhill Road

Clarence Gardens Greenacres Kidman Park Mount Barker Tiwi (NT) Victor Harbor

5039 5086 5025 5251 0810 5211

8113 6500 8361 5300 8159 4740 8391 4600 8922 6650 8551 0617

19 Cornhill Road 11 Laidlaw Street 1a Warooka Drive Corner Jade Crescent and Hay Street 11 Laidlaw Street 160 Walkerville Terrace

Victor Harbor Henley Beach Smithfield Happy Valley Henley Beach Walkerville

5211 5022 5114 5159 5022 5081

8551 0600 8356 5398 8254 2992 8381 4901 8356 5398 8342 8367

Greenacres Henley Beach Morphett Vale Somerton Park Tiwi

1/19-21 Fosters Road 168a Cudmore Terrace 126 Pimpala Road Grainger Road 11 Creswell Street

Greenacres Henley Beach Morphett Vale Somerton Park Tiwi (NT)

5086 5022 5162 5044 0810

8361 5350 8356 3169 8322 5700 8375 1525 8922 6650

Victor Harbor

33 Cornhill Road

Victor Harbor

5211

8551 0617

Myrtle Bank Morphettville Heathfield Hackham Largs North Ridgehaven Victor Harbor Smithfield Somerton Park Tiwi (NT) Walkerville Kidman Park

5064 5043 5153 5163 5016 5097 5211 5114 5044 0810 5081 5025

8130 6444 8350 3600 8230 5500 8392 6700 8248 9555 8397 0100 8551 0600 8254 4700 8375 1500 8922 6600 8342 8300 8159 4780

Social Programs Ross Robertson Day Respite Seasiders Smithyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Place Southern Sundowner Plus Walkerville

Wellness Programs

Residential Care Carinya Charles Young Hillside Holly Marten Ridgehaven Ross Robertson Memorial Smithfield Somerton Tiwi Walkerville Food Services

39 Fisher Street 53 Austral Terrace 177 Longwood Road 16-24 Penneys Hill Road 110 Strathfield Terrace Gate 3, Hazel Grove 19 Cornhill Road 1 Warooka Drive Grainger Road 11 Creswell Street 160 Walkerville Terrace 358 Findon Road

Thank you from the Chief Executive Moving in a new direction brings change. ECH’s decision to commit its future to exclusively focus on providing an increasing range of affordable retirement living and community services is significant and signals better things for a greater number of older South Australians. At this time of change for so many of us, I do wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our staff, volunteers, residents, clients and families for your invaluable contribution and commitment to ECH over the years. ECH has developed a unique culture and it is the exceptional nature of our people that has propelled us to be leaders in our sector. Thank you one and all for embodying and living out our core values – integrity, respect, empathy – through your tireless dedication and support that has enabled us to deliver on our core Purpose. We have been extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to publish so many achievements of our residents and clients, as well as our staff and volunteers in our quarterly magazine ECHo!

This publication has gone from strength to strength because of everyone’s willingness to contribute to it. Thank you to the ECHo! team for producing a publication that captures what we are all about. I extend my appreciation particularly to those of you in residential care who have shared your stories in the magazine and will no longer be doing so in the future. ECHo! will continue to be a superb source of stories and information, though with a different focus in future. As we embark on this new journey I sincerely wish every single person who has been involved with us until now, those who are transferring to Allity and everyone who will continue to be involved with ECH into the future, all the very best. Kind regards,

Rob Hankins Chief Executive

Allity Chief Executive Officer David Armstrong, Walkerville Residential Care Centre resident Hope Lamond, ECH Chief Executive Rob Hankins and Walkerville Residential Care Centre resident William Hilton.

ECH Inc | 2014 | ECHo! ISSUE No. 151 |

FEATURE STORY - ANZAC DAY Lest we forget the fallen heroes ANZAC Day goes beyond the anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli in 1915. It is the day we remember all Australians who served and died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. The spirit of ANZAC, with its human qualities of courage, mateship and sacrifice, continues to have meaning and relevance for our sense of national identity. Here are two of our residents’ stories of their time during World War II.

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A true gentleman with many stories to share A quiet and unassuming man who came from humble beginnings in Chelsea, London, Rotary Village resident Reg Dyer was in the Royal Navy Patrol Service on several ships from 1942 to 1946 including the HMS Othello from 1944 to 1946. The Royal Naval Patrol Service was a branch of the Royal Navy active during World War II. The service operated many small auxiliary vessels such as trawlers for anti-submarine and minesweeping operations to protect coastal Britain and convoys during the war. While out at sea, Reg was an Asdic operator, which was the Anti-Submarine Detection Investigation Committee, and was the first device used to locate submarines. This system located underwater objects by transmitting an acoustical pulse of energy, then listening for any echoes returned from that object. “I was 18 when I joined and it was compulsory,” Reg says. “I was in the middle of my apprenticeship as a stonemason. This stopped when the war was declared. My father said I had better try and get a job at the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation). I was at the BBC until I joined up in the navy near Worcestershire. In order to prevent having to go into the army I volunteered to go in the navy. That’s how I got involved.”

Being out at sea for months at a time was “rough”, Reg recalls. “The first year I was so sea sick,” he says. “The first time the bow pointed towards the harbour entrance that’s when I started to get sick. It was choppy and wavy. It took me about seven months to get over it. Minesweeping is not a particularly nice job if one knows what’s involved.” When Reg came out of the navy he returned to the BBC then moved into the building trade. “I wanted to be a stonemason in Australia but my family wanted to go to Canada,” Reg says. “I was 47 when I applied for work in Canada but I couldn’t go because they wouldn’t take people over a certain age so we decided to go to Australia.” In 1972 Reg and his family, including his wife Evelyn, who was in the Auxiliary Territorial Service, daughter, son-in-law and youngest son, took a one-month boat trip and settled in South Australia. Reg’s first job in the state was for an electrical company as a storeman driver. He then moved onto what was then PMG, PostmasterGeneral, before becoming Telecom and then Telstra.

He worked in Hindley Street for 15 years then got a clerical assistance job at BP House for seven years in the drafting section, which is where he retired. Reg, who will celebrate his 90th birthday in August, has a stunning collection of drawings he created using old photographs, cartoons and newspapers, depicting people and events from World War II. “I used to do a lot of painting when I was a kid,” Reg says. “My brother and father were artists and musicians. My father did the most wonderful pictures. I did all these sketches over a period of time after the navy, most of which were done while I was living in Australia. It was what I could see in my own mind.” Reflecting over these drawings brings a special twinkle to Reg’s eyes, a flashback to what may feel like a lifetime ago. A calm, measured manner possesses Reg, who is always happy to relax on his porch with a cup of tea and watch the world go by.

Reg holding a drawing he did of the HM Othello, whic S h shows seam dan-buoys in en laying the Mediterra nean in 1943 .

ECH Inc | 2014 | ECHo! ISSUE No. 151 |

FEATURE STORY - ANZAC DAY The secret life of Dorothy Most people who know the smiling and diminutive Dorothy Dickson, resident at Charles Young Residential Care Centre, would probably never guess what an adventurous soul she was in her younger days. Dorothy’s family grew up knowing she had an interesting and slightly unusual background but it was unclear as to what extent. Dorothy had written short stories that had been published in magazines when she was young and spent time travelling in Europe. Dorothy’s daughter Daryl explains, “I remember mum spent a lot of time tapping with her fingers on counters, ‘not out of impatience’, she would say, as that would be ‘rude’. She was tapping out messages in Morse code. By way of explanation she told us that she had been the ‘first female radio operator’ in Germany at the end of World War II and the tapping was just a habit. We often wondered what messages she was sending as she tapped.”

Born in London in 1923, Dorothy was indeed a radio operator using Morse code in the British Air Force during World War II but the details were rarely discussed. “Since we were small, my siblings and I had known not to ask about the war as Mum had always told us that Dad didn’t like it discussed as he regretted terribly that he had been medically unfit to join the British forces,” Daryl says. It seems now there were other reasons the subject was not for discussion but it has taken many decades for information to reveal tantalising details of Dorothy’s secret war history. In 2008 top secret British wartime records were released and they revealed the existence of a place called Bletchley Park, Station X. Bletchley Park is known as the home of the code breakers. Unknown until this time, Bletchley Park housed the team who invented and built the very first computer. It was called Colossus and was used to assist in the breaking of intercepted enemy coded messages.

A young D

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iden ng Res u o Y s 4. arle y at Ch pril 201 Doroth e Centre in A Car

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husband and her y th o r o D edding at the w r. George e’s siste of Georg

All this was interesting but had nothing to do with Dorothy, or so her family thought, until 2013 when they received a copy of a Bletchley Park Certificate of Service for Miss Dorothy Harper who appears on their Roll of Honour. “We assumed that this must in some way relate to Mum’s service in the air force or perhaps as a civilian prior to enlisting,” Daryl says. “We were wrong on both counts.” It would appear that although secret records for general personnel at Bletchley Park had been released in 2008, this is not so for staff who worked for the Foreign Office, and it would seem that Dorothy was a Hollerith operator listed as a Foreign Office Civilian and details of her service remain classified. A Hollerith was a tabulation and calculating machine, used at Bletchley Park as an aid to cryptanalysis and intelligence reporting. “We may never know the details of Mum’s involvement at Bletchley Park but we are proud to know she was there and part of such an intriguing part of history,” Daryl says. “These revelations bring into sharp focus conversations that have been had over a lifetime, conversations that, as children, we have never questioned. Hindsight is a wonderful thing. Looking back I have to wonder why we never asked questions but when you are young you tend to be focused on the future not the past.” As to her time in the air force during the war, few details were ever spoken but it is known Dorothy had been a witness taken in to verify the horror of what was revealed at one of the concentration camps. Dorothy’s family was aware she was in Europe before the end of the war in Berlin, Hamburg, Brussels and the Harz Mountains. “She once told me she had to fly in the hold of a bomber with the bomb doors open all the way across the channel,” Daryl says. “We can only guess at what other secret details lie in Dorothy’s past both in the air force and during her time at Bletchley but I have no doubt that it explains the sense of ‘anything is possible’ that she has gifted to my life.”

Social group brings residents together A village in need of a social group is now thriving, thanks to resident Shirley Herriman who got one up and running. A group of residents, all ladies, at Clutterbuck Lodge get together every Monday afternoon for games, cards, afternoon tea and plenty of chatter. “I have lived here for more than 10 years and it’s so quiet around here and I thought I would like to start this,” Shirley says. “It’s been fun and we have started bus trips for every few months.” Shirley letterbox dropped some flyers asking residents if they would like to become part of a village social club. Shirley and another resident Barbara collected the residents’ numbers and made a contact sheet then Shirley put together a club dates list. The group started in March this year and is a highlight of the week for the ladies. “We must say a big thank you to Shirley who started our group that was badly needed,” Betty Cottell says. “She has been so good in getting this together.” Patricia Smart agrees, saying, “The company and the chatter is great. We don’t always see each other during the week but we do each Monday. We have got to know everyone through doing this.” 1 2

1. Barbara Oakes and Lesley Robertson 2. Barbara Blekinsop and Denise Naughton 3. Catherine MacKenzie and Patricia Smart 4. Betty Cottell and Leonie Higgins 5. Shirley Herriman and Shirley Mertin

ECH Inc | 2014 | ECHo! ISSUE No. 151 |

A happy spirit thrives at Cungena The residents of Cungena village at Park Holme are a diverse group of generous, lively and downto-earth people from many different walks of life. Whenever it is a resident’s birthday the village comes together and puts on a spread that could rival the Hilton Adelaide hotel’s high tea afternoon. On this particular day in early March, the village was celebrating the birthdays of residents Kay Foston and Scharlie Michell.

Nothing is too much effort for the ladies who organise the morning teas. Family and friends are more than welcome and the ambiance and interaction makes you feel like you are with your own family, constantly enveloped in an invisible hug. “This group gets on really well,” resident Beryl Searle says. “I came here two years ago, not long after my husband died, and it was just lovely. When it’s anyone’s birthday in this beautiful weather we always have it here at the village outside. Anyone who is interested comes along. We all bring a plate and enjoy a nice morning tea. Daphne Clements organised a bottle and can collection to go to the depot and the money raised from that bought us some nice cushions to sit on and other bits and pieces for the group to enjoy.”

Birthdays are not the only reason the village comes together. They also do fish and chips night on a Thursday or Friday or sometimes enjoy Chinese cuisine or a barbecue. In winter when the weather is too dismal to congregate outside, the group heads to the Morphett Arms and enjoys a nice hearty meal. Resident Joyce Crunkhorn, 92, has lived at Cungena for 22 years, longer than any other resident there. “I feel great because it’s really independent here,” she says. “You can please yourself when you come and go. My garden and needlework are my favourite things and I walk all around here. I feel good because it’s open and there is always plenty of movement.”

8 8

The great-grandmother of 12 embodies an attitude that is prevalent among many of the village’s residents. “I’m happy and I feel content,” she says. “You can’t hold me down.”

1. Scharlie Michell and Kay Foston cut their birthday cake, made by Beryl Searle 2. Ken Pollok and Robbie Clarke 3. Linda Treglown, Daph Clements, Beryl Searle and Joan Craven 4. Keith and Doris Everett 5. Jan Smith, Coral Fry and Dorothy Herbert 6. Graham and Joyce Crunkhorn (right) with interstate family visitors Margaret and Ian Allen 7. Maxine Wadey (right) with visitors Jayna, Tristian and Christine Nieass 8. Diana Nelson and Scharlie Michell 9. Kay and Bill Foston (front) with family visitors Sally Cooper and Heather Thomas (back row) and Claire Thomas (centre)

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ECH champions Dignity in Care ECH was represented by a table of staff at the 2014 Dignity in Care Conference at Woodville West Torrens Football Club on 14th February where South Australian culinary icon Maggie Beer provided the keynote address. The Dignity in Care program is a worldwide initiative and aims to change the culture of South Australian health services by reinforcing the importance of treating patients with dignity and respect. Dignity in Care is not a statement but prescribes actions that ensure all patients who seek care are treated with respect, and that the principles of dignity are applied to all aspects of the patient’s journey. Dignity in Care was first launched in Australia in early 2011 at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, with Maggie Beer as the patron. The program started with 300 enthusiastic champions and now has more than 1,000.

ECH first became involved when staff from Seasiders Day Program attended the 2013 inaugural Dignity in Care Conference. Coordinator Betty Hurrell brought back information about the program and it really excited the Seasiders team. ECH staff then met with Consultant Geriatrician Dr Faizal Ibrahim from The Queen Elizabeth Hospital and discussed becoming a partner and embracing the principles throughout ECH’s community services. Social Programs Manager Valerie Aldahn says community services staff felt the Dignity in Care program was “a good match” with what ECH does. “It’s about being connected to other Dignity in Care partners and ensuring those principles are embedded in everything we do,” she says. “The experiences people have with our services are consistent with the Dignity in Care principles. The conference brought everyone together who embrace these principles. It’s an exciting movement to be part of.” 1

Dignity in Care Principles 1. Zero tolerance of all forms of abuse. 2. Support people with the same respect you would want for yourself or a member of your family. 3. Treat each person as an individual by offering a personalised service.

4. Enable people to maintain the maximum possible level of independence, choice, and control. 5. Listen and support people to express their needs and wants. 6. Respect people’s privacy. 3

7. Ensure people feel able to complain without fear of retribution. 8. Engage with family members and carers as care partners. 9. Assist people to maintain confidence and a positive self esteem. 10. Act to alleviate people’s loneliness and isolation. 1. Dr Faizal Ibrahim, special guest Maggie Beer and Valerie Aldahn 2. Independent living unit resident Lou Bainger, ECH Information Officer Melissa Evans and General Manager Community Services Andrew Stoll 3. Seasiders Coordinator Betty Hurrell, Dr Faizal Ibrahim, Maggie Beer, ECH Living Well Project Officer Tamara Featherston, Valerie Aldahn and Andrew Stoll

ECH Inc | 2014 | ECHo! ISSUE No. 151 |

CONSUMER DIRECTED CARE ECH supports older people to remain living at home A new initiative by the Federal Government will see all ECH clients who currently receive inhome assistance transition to a package which is delivered on a Consumer Directed Care (CDC) basis. Consumer Directed Care introduces more choice and flexibility for people receiving services, in order to help people to remain living at home for as long as possible.

There are now four levels of Home Care Packages:

Consumer Directed Care is a way of delivering services that enables clients and their carers to have greater control over their own lives by allowing them, to the extent they are able and wish to do so, to make choices about the types of services they access and the delivery of those services.

Home Care Level 4 – to support people with high care needs.

The new Home Care Packages Program, incorporating the Consumer Directed Care philosophy, replaces the former community packaged care programs, which included Community Aged Care Packages (CACPs), Extended Aged Care at Home (EACH) and Extended Aged Care at Home Dementia (EACHD).

Home Care Level 1 – to support people with basic care needs. Home Care Level 2 – to support people with low level care needs. Home Care Level 3 – to support people with intermediate care needs.

Home Care Packages are coordinated by a home care provider (such as ECH), with funding provided by the government and a contribution by the client. This better enables the client to make informed choices about utilising the funds available to them. ECH consultants work with clients to support the decisions they make and ensure that services meet their needs and support their independence. Over the course of the next 12 months, existing ECH clients receiving in-home assistance will be transitioned onto a Home Care Package. There is nothing that existing clients need do, as our Community Services staff will contact clients when their next assessments are due to be conducted.

To find out more about receiving assistance through ECH contact your nearest In-home Programs office:

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Kidman Park, Ph: 8159 4740 Clarence Gardens, Ph: 8113 6500 Greenacres, Ph: 8361 5300 Mount Barker, Ph: 8391 4600 Victor Harbor, Ph: 8551 0617

Many helping hands make life easier for Mervyn and Elizabeth ECH clients Mervyn and Elizabeth Bellchambers have resided at their Rosewater house all their lives, and thanks to their Home Care Package and the services they receive through ECH they are able to remain as independent as possible in their own home. Around two years ago Mervyn, 93, began receiving in-home support after a stay in hospital. His services include assistance with showering and dressing and he has a range of exercises that he does nearly every day. About six months after Mervyn started with his package it was decided that Elizabeth, 88, could also benefit from some support. ECH staff now assist Mervyn and Elizabeth with some of the household tasks they would otherwise have difficulty carrying out, including the laundry, bed making, ironing and cleaning around the house. Between their five sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren, there is certainly no shortage of visitors and helping hands around the Bellchambers’ abode. Their sons Terry and Wayne do all the grocery shopping, appointment booking and gardening while Wayne’s wife Heather pays the bills, organises meetings, liaises with other family members, and assists in any way she can.

“They are all very good and they work the load out between themselves,” Elizabeth says. “With the ECH staff I let them know what I need done and they do it while they are here. We are like family. You get to know them very well.” With her parents-in-law’s permission, Heather is kept up to date with information about Mervyn and Elizabeth’s packages and what services are available to them each month within their budgets. “There is good communication between the carers and us,” Heather says. “The package is very open and flexible. Whatever equipment the staff feel would help them in their home, they organise it for them. They are very helpful and we can have a good chat together about any concerns. Whatever Mum and Dad’s needs or problems are they can be worked out. If Mum and Dad feel their situation changes they can contact ECH and a meeting will be made to discuss it.” Mervyn, who loves being able to spend time at home in the kitchen making dinner for himself and Elizabeth, enjoys the company of the staff and gets on well with them. “They are good people, excellent,” he says. Elizabeth agrees, saying, “Mervyn gets on with all the girls. They laugh and joke all the time. We are really satisfied with the treatment we get.”

Heather (left) with her parents-in-law and ECH clients Mervyn and Elizabeth Bellchambers at their Rosewater home.

ECH Inc | 2014 | ECHo! ISSUE No. 151 |

CONSUMER DIRECTED CARE In-home support gives Beryl freedom to enjoy life A severe vertigo episode encouraged Cungena village resident Beryl McArdle to consider receiving in-home support from ECH in October 2011. At the time, Beryl was determined to stay in her adored home of 16 years and continue enjoying life. “I like it here,” she says. “I like to have individual friends I can talk to when I choose. I had no intention of moving in when I first looked at this unit though. I was sitting at a bus stop at Marion one day talking with a lady about ECH. She said there was a unit empty in this village. I thought there was no harm in looking. I liked the colours and the main feature was the glass windows. It’s just lovely. It faces north so I don’t get too much sun.” Through her Home Care Package, Beryl has four different staff that assist her by doing her cleaning and shopping on alternate weeks and she also receives support showering. Beryl’s cousin takes her to most medical appointments as she is flexible with her time. Beryl is grateful for the introduction of Consumer Directed Care packaging. “I am very happy with the service I receive,” she says. “I would not be able to stay here without the care. The staff and I all get along well.”

much money is still there to be accessed. Each client’s budget is determined by the level of package they receive. “If there is anything I require I ring up,” she says. “You know exactly what’s going on with the money and you have an idea of what’s available to you. I appreciate all the help I get very much.” Beryl loves being able to stay home so she can relish in her favourite pastimes, reading books and watching her beloved programs on television. “My favourite programs are Escape to the Country and Antiques Roadshow,” she says. “I enjoy listening to quiet and gentle music like Andre Rieu. I’m a big lover of astronomy, science and ballet. When my daughter was young I would take her to the library on Sturt Road and one day I picked up a book by astronomer Sir Fred Hoyle, I read it and was hooked. I didn’t follow it up straight away because I was busy with my children but since I’ve been on my own I watch everything I can on television about it.”

To determine the level of support Beryl required, an ACAT* assessment was arranged by her doctor and Beryl was put in contact with ECH Community Services. Beryl appreciates the open and frequent communication between herself and her ECH consultant. “I do liaise with her when I need to and she’s very helpful,” Beryl says. “I couldn’t ask for anybody better. If I need transport to an appointment or some other kind of support she works it out for me from my budget. There is a small contingency budget for emergencies such as light meals and a little washing up occasionally when I’m sick.” Each month Beryl receives a statement detailing what services she received in the previous month, how the money is being used, and how

*Aged Care Assessment Team

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ECH client Beryl McArdle is thrilled with the services she receives.

ECH commissions groundbreaking research

The study will fill the gap in research to the benefit of the wider ageing population through the targeted improvement of housing environments.”

ECH has commissioned researchers from the University of Adelaide’s Centre for Housing, Urban and Regional Planning (CHURP) to investigate the effect of living in purpose built retirement housing on older people’s health and wellbeing.

While ECH is funding the study, the only involvement staff have is with initiating contact with new residents. Completed surveys are sent directly to the research centre and the data will be analysed independently by the University of Adelaide. External parties, including ECH, will never receive information or responses which identify residents. The privacy of participants is fully protected to encourage honest answers.

“The study is based on a sense in the aged care industry that if people move into supportive housing, like ECH’s independent retirement living units, they are able to live independently at home longer and be healthier for longer,” ECH Research and Evaluation Project Manager Amber Watt says. “No one’s ever proved this empirically. Our aim is to examine the evidence for that idea and also to use the findings to develop our housing environments to be even more supportive.” The project will also provide a better understanding of the role that housing and service provision plays in the lives of older South Australians. The study will compare the experiences of older people living in the community and those living in ECH’s purpose built accommodation. It is hoped that the research will demonstrate tangible benefits associated with living in purpose built retirement housing to encourage people to make the move at a younger age, improve government policy in this area and support further investment. Commencing in 2012, the project has an expected end date of 2019. For more accurate results the study will follow participants over a period of seven years through an annual survey. Researchers have already recruited 600 older people from the general community to provide comparative data. New ECH residents are being offered participation in the study during the first few months of moving into their unit. Residents are encouraged to participate and to stay involved over the full course of the research for more comprehensive findings which will improve the housing options and services offered in the future. “We want to use the findings to ensure that residents are being given the best environment possible to age in, so that they are happy, well and connected to the community,” Amber says. “However, there’s also a bigger picture.

Researchers are hoping for preliminary comparative results to be available by mid 2015. ECH acknowledges the 140 residents who have completed the first survey and sincerely thanks them for their time in assisting with this groundbreaking research. If you have any questions or would like more information about the study, please contact Amber Watt on 8407 5196.

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ECH residents Eric and Joan Parry fill out the survey in their unit.

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e Centre Residential Car e ill rv ke al W a De Nicolo. Coralie with Harris and Alb ita R , es yl A e nn residents Vivie Left: Charles Young Residential Care Centre residents Dorothy Clark, Rhonda Roult, Berna Vinney and Coralie.

Bright Sparks blossom in residential care Walkerville and Charles Young Residential Care Centres are lucky to have volunteer Coralie Creevey visit them each week to offer Bright Sparks. Bright Sparks is an hour-long session where residents can ask questions about history, politics, animals, science and many other topics. Coralie will research the questions then return the next week with the answers and offer discussion about the topics covered. Coralie began presenting the session around one year ago at Walkerville Residential Care Centre and since March 2014 at Charles Young Residential Care Centre. While her mother was a resident at the Walkerville care centre, Coralie started doing a quiz with the residents and that led to her forming Bright Sparks. “I was already volunteering at Walkerville by doing the quiz and after my mother died in October 2013 I just continued with it,” she says. During the session Coralie receives questions such as what is the largest museum in the world? What is the most poisonous creature in the world? What animals can kneel? What are the symbols of the American political parties? The residents are able to ask any question they like. Once she has given the answer Coralie then does a quiz on topics including politics, war, international cultures, famous novelists, scientists

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and kings, and the residents can call out the answers. Coralie always encourages free and open discussion throughout the session. Coralie says although the group is still relatively new at Charles Young Residential Care Centre she can see the eagerness in the residents who attend. “It means such a lot to the residents,” she says. “Anyone who has different tastes and interests can be a bit lonely so I can see it’s what they love. I want to cater for a love of beauty and the wonder of life. It’s something the residents really enjoy.” Coralie’s background is in journalism, teaching and geology. Her passions are history and art and she is very interested in inventions. “I do love doing this,” she says. “I think things are worth knowing. The world is a wonderful place. Knowledge is still something the residents are interested in and they are capable of learning. We always have a laugh and everyone is free to contribute. I care about the residents and they are still curious and interested people who are capable of taking on the information and enjoying it.” Walkerville Residential Care Centre resident Alba De Nicolo says Bright Sparks is the highlight of her week. “We are fortunate to have Coralie,” she says. “She comes over so friendly and makes you feel part of whatever she’s sharing. She explains herself in such a warm and friendly way and we are very lucky to have her.”

Beryl makes the most out of every day Beryl Roberts is a woman who is not afraid to speak up about something she doesn’t like but during the three and a half years she has been receiving in-home assistance from ECH Beryl has nothing but endearing and positive comments to make about the support she receives. “In that time I’ve had a few different ladies assist me but for the last two and a half years I’ve had the same two ladies on a Wednesday and a Thursday,” she says. “They are very charming, kind and helpful. They will do anything to help me. I think that’s part of the joy of someone in your home who you like and get on very well with.” Beryl, who turned 85 earlier this year, sought the services of ECH after a shoulder operation meant she required help with showering. “It was getting so expensive to have a district nurse come over all the time so I asked my doctor what could be done,” Beryl says. “The doctor wrote a referral letter to ECH then I had an interview to see what help I needed and it was all organised for me.” Home Support Worker Jan Salkeld does Beryl’s ironing on a Wednesday and takes her to appointments like the hairdresser, and Home Support Worker Susan Miller takes Beryl shopping on Thursdays and cleans her house once a fortnight. Beryl also receives visits from another two home support workers who take out and bring in her rubbish bins weekly. “Nothing is a trouble for these ladies,” Beryl says. “We have made friends with each other and I feel comfortable with them. I’ve had nothing but good, lovely and kind help from the staff.”

“They are both good drivers and I feel comfortable in the car with them. I am very grateful to my coordinator Dora Lee. I find her always available and helpful,” Beryl says. During December 2013 Beryl received some extra support through ECH with her Christmas shopping – a task she thought was impossible to achieve. “Jan and I did the shopping for a couple of hours over a few Mondays and it was absolutely wonderful,” Beryl says. “I didn’t need much but just extra things like gifts. It helped me such a lot and I really appreciated it. I managed to get everything done before Christmas.” Despite having macular degeneration, being legally blind in her left eye, and no longer able to drive, Beryl isn’t afraid of venturing out on her own and making the most of each day. She loves going to her favourite restaurant in Hutt Street at least a couple of times a month and attends Westbourne Park Community Hall every Tuesday for lunch and an outing with a group. “I really like it because it’s an outing for me with people I like,” she says. Affectionately known to many as “Auntie Bear”, Beryl’s no nonsense attitude to life has made her a resilient and passionate woman who has withstood some interesting curveballs. “If you want to do anything you can do it if you make up your mind,” she says. “I am a very determined woman. What’s the point in grizzling? I’ve had a wonderful life. I’ve travelled lots, I have two marvellous sons and wonderful friends. I’ve got a glass three quarters full, not a quarter empty.”

Beryl Roberts (front) and ECH Home Support Worker Jan Salkeld get ready to go to an appointment.

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Making a splash for mobility Hydrotherapy or aquatherapy classes provide safe, gentle exercises in a warm water pool. Exercising in this environment utilises the physical resistance and buoyancy of water to assist in reducing pain and stiffness while improving movement and mobility. ECH Physiotherapist Ruth Dignam has been providing hydrotherapy for 13 years, most recently with Greenacres Therapy Service, and says that the benefits for older people are invaluable. “The beautiful thing about the water is that it allows for top to toe treatment,” she says. “I can really address everything at the one time.” One of the primary benefits of hydrotherapy is the freedom of movement which the warm water, heated to 34 degrees Celsius, provides. “The warm water really enhances muscle relaxation and movement,” Ruth says. “Flexibility is maximised and the buoyancy of the water means clients can do what they never would attempt on dry land.” Hydrotherapy can also assist older people by providing a softer return to exercising, rather than getting into the gym straight away. “Some people use hydrotherapy as a way to transition into doing dry land exercise,” Ruth says.

Greenacres Therapy Service runs weekly group hydrotherapy classes at the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Community and Home (BIRCH) complex at Felixstow. Medical clearance is required and, as with any client beginning a new program, an assessment with an ECH therapy staff member is completed prior to joining the 10 week introductory class. There is also an ongoing class for those who have completed the introductory course and wish to continue attending. Each group runs for an hour. The ECH classes are kept small to ensure each client receives the individual attention they require. “The attention to detail is greater,” Ruth says. “I can make sure that the exercises are being executed in the way that will benefit each client the most.” Ruth says the benefits of hydrotherapy to an older person’s wellbeing can generally be felt after two to three sessions. Some people may be sore after the first class due to the exercising of muscles that may have had limited movement for a long time. Realising that some people may understandably feel nervous about attending hydrotherapy classes, Ruth has several measures in place to allay the fears of potential clients. “You don’t need to be able to swim,” she says. “There’s no putting of faces in the water. Clients can stand by the rail the entire time if they wish.” Flotation devices and temporary one-to-one supervision can also be provided if required. People considering hydrotherapy are welcome to observe a class, and attendees can wear any clothing that they can freely move in if they don’t feel comfortable wearing bathers. “We’re the sole users of the pool at that time,” Ruth adds. “I can also speak to anyone and work through any concerns they may have or any barriers to accessing the class.” For more information about hydrotherapy, please contact Greenacres Therapy Service on 8361 5350.

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Hydrotherapy is helping Viv heal ECH client Viv Doherty has experienced a barrage of trauma and health problems but has finally found relief and restoration through hydrotherapy classes with Greenacres Therapy Service. “I have had lots of bone work done,” Viv says. “I have undergone surgery on my back and right shoulder. I broke my left knee and had a knee replacement then my right knee went a few years later because of the pressure that was put on it. I was in a car accident three years ago this August and the car was written off. It stirred everything up again so I’ve been struggling. In between all of this I lost my husband.” During the recovery process Viv, who has been an ECH client for about five years, was referred to Greenacres Therapy Service where she began hydrotherapy classes with Physiotherapist Ruth Dignam and Therapy Assistant Floren Vansoest. “It’s the best,” Viv says. “It helps with my breathing and stability. The best thing for me was when I got into ECH to do water aerobics. We do what we can. Ruth is very gentle and the more I do it the easier it gets. I wish I could do it forever. I really believe it’s given me more confidence to go out on my own with the help of my walker.” Viv also attends the Strong and Stable class with Fitness Instructor Elena Russo and Floren once a week for muscle toning, using equipment like

weights, the treadmill and bikes. “I do Tai Chi when I can and I do whatever I can manage,” Viv says. “If I’m having a good day I can do a bit extra.” Always one who is up for a chat and a laugh, Viv relishes in the social opportunities the hydrotherapy classes provide. “I’ve met so many people going there,” she says. “If I don’t turn up they say, ‘Where’s Viv?’ I’ve met friends there and we go out for lunch. Most importantly the thing is to see Floren, Ruth and Elena. They are interested in you and want to help you all the time. Even the staff there, like the front office ladies, are all lovely people.” Viv’s daughter Carolyn recently purchased a house so she could be closer to her mum and help her out. “It’s peace of mind for her so she can see how I am,” Viv says. “I’ve always been the type of person who likes things perfect. It’s amazing when your whole life just changes. I’m very lucky I’ve got Carolyn. I do it for her. She keeps me positive and I don’t want to give up because of her.” With her positive and determined attitude, it doesn’t look like there is any stopping Viv. She credits her success to the dedication of ECH’s staff and expresses a lot of gratitude. “What I love so much about ECH is there is no discrimination,” she says. “Everybody talks to everybody and I believe that is a great thing.” Greenacres Therapy Service client Viv Doherty (centre) with therapy staff Floren Vansoest and Ruth Dignam.

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Alba’s always on the positive side of life at Walkerville Residential Care Centre, she decided, with family assistance, it was time to move on and took up permanent residence at Walkerville Residential Care Centre.

Alba in the garden of her previous home.

rite her favou in g n ti it s Alba pot at . outside s re Centre ential Ca id s e R le Walkervil

A courageous and confident woman, Walkerville Residential Care Centre resident Alba De Nicolo wakes up every morning and puts her best foot forward, grateful to be living in pleasant convivial surroundings. It was five years ago that Alba “had the good fortune” of being introduced to the in-home services of ECH when she needed some assistance. “I had a wonderful service with ECH at home,” she recalls. “The carers that were appointed by my competent and understanding coordinator Teresa Sandona met my requirements, greeting me with a friendly smile and carrying out their appointed tasks daily. Doctors’ appointments were accommodated and shopping day was always special. My carer didn’t just do the grocery shopping, she made it a really fun day, which made a difference. The constant assistance enabled me to remain in my own home and enjoy my garden and lovely surroundings. At the same time I was able to socialise, attend activities and meetings of two Probus groups and enjoy life in general.” After four years however, this lifestyle had to move in another direction. After Alba had a couple of episodes in hospital and respite

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“It was not easy to leave my home and lovely garden and above all the beautiful furniture hand crafted by my father after so many years of enjoyment but when you can’t move a great deal this is a wonderful place to be in,” she says. “The carers are all so kind and many people don’t need to be bored as there’s quite a selection of activities that are on here. The highlight of my week is the Bright Sparks* program, which leaves one so mentally stimulated. After some time I have settled in, I am content and have made friends and attend activities.” Alba, who turned 90 in December 2013, chose Walkerville Residential Care Centre because “it is close to everything and provides a beautifully open environment, especially the gardens”. “In Italy we have an old saying - a house without a garden is like a face without a smile,” Alba says. “What impresses me about here are the surroundings. Every area here has a small garden and most of all it’s a lovely view. When I go and sit outside I forget about everything that’s around me. My favourite spot is sitting outside near a rose bed with a view of the River Torrens, gum trees and the path beyond while a wild bright purple creeper gives colour to the scene.” Always one to keep her mind stimulated and conversation flowing, Alba has formed friendships with the staff and residents at the care centre. “I appreciate the help I receive from the many carers, the majority of which are from so many diverse cultures and this is of interest to me,” she says. “I’ve made it my task to find out how many different nationalities there are. I’ve clocked up 33 nationalities so far. When I came here the staff made my day. When you’re alone it makes such a difference. So many people are very hesitant to get the help but if they only realised how much easier it is and you can enjoy life so much more.” *See page 14 for a story on Bright Sparks.

Changing lives one ride at a time ECH staff not only do a superb job in their roles at work but some also volunteer with organisations in their own time, helping to create a meaningful and positive impact on the community. Here is the story of ECH Referral Officer Merridee Parker and her journey of volunteering with Riding for the Disabled. Merridee started volunteering with Riding for the Disabled (RDA) in 1996 when her son Daniel started school. “I heard about RDA through a man whose horse I leased and he said when I finished with the horse he would donate it to RDA,” Merridee says. “He was true to his word and after Daniel was born he donated Tarum to RDA. When my son started school I started volunteering with RDA and was re-united with Tarum. When Tarum retired at age 20 I purchased him and he died in 2000 aged 22.” Merridee’s role with Riding for the Disabled is as a Level 1 Coach and committee member at Jennibrook Farm in Woodcroft. She volunteers on Thursdays and Saturdays with hours varying depending on the day but is usually about six hours per day. There are five lessons on a Thursday and four on a Saturday.

Merridee’s role with ECH: Merridee has worked with ECH since 1999, starting as a receptionist at Bellevue Residential Care Centre at Bellevue Heights, which relocated to Holly Residential Care Centre at Hackham. Merridee is now the Referral Officer and has been in this role for about three years, but has relieved in this role since its inception in 2005. Duties include placing residents into the residential care centres, taking respite bookings, looking after the registration list, sending out application packs and answering questions from prospective residents regarding residential care costs, vacancies and eligibility.

Merridee is also on the feeding roster for Wednesdays and Friday evenings. “As a coach I am responsible for running the lessons and supervising the coach’s aides and other volunteers to ensure the classes are run smoothly and safely,” she says. “I also help with office duties and fill our vacancies. We currently have a wait time of three and a half years for a Saturday, riding is that popular.” During her time with the organisation Merridee has seen the many and varied benefits that horse riding has for people with disabilities, including aiding with balance, flexibility, mobility and also assisting psychologically. “It offers enjoyment, friendship, challenge and achievement, independence and confidence,” she says. “Volunteering with Riding for the Disabled is very rewarding. You see the children interact with their horses and some non-verbal children ask their horse to ‘walk on’ yet they never utter a word at home. Children who are non-ambulant take their first steps due to the benefits of horse riding.”

Merridee Parker with Riding for the Disabled client Siew and horse Copper Mask.

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A second chance at love On a beautiful sunny afternoon on 20th October 2013, Rotary Village residents Peter and Mary Presland gave the village their first wedding when they said ‘I do’, surrounded by their families and friends. Peter and Mary, who are both widowed, had known each other for many years and regularly attended the Parafield Gardens Community Centre for social activities and gatherings. “It just took off,” Mary recalls. “We were friends and it happened. Peter’s wife had passed away and I felt for him.” Mary had been on her own for five or so years and was living in a one-bedroom unit at Rotary Village while Peter was living in his home at Paralowie. Peter and Mary became engaged in 2009 and Peter moved in to Mary’s unit in November 2011 but they soon realised there was not enough space for both of them so they shifted into a larger neighbouring unit where they are very happy. Mary says the wedding preparations only took a few months. “There were three ladies here at the village who were so kind, especially Carmel Fuller,” she says. “We talked about the wedding for months and as soon as we set a date she took over and organised everything and all the flowers.” Close to 90 residents from the village attended the wedding, which was held under the outdoor awning that had been built in the garden area.

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Mary arrived in style in her son-in-law’s Porsche, while Peter stood with the celebrant waiting to set eyes on his beautiful bride. The village hall was decorated perfectly and a delicious spread of food was prepared for family and friends to enjoy. The live band’s music filled the hall and Peter’s grandson dressed up as Elvis to perform his classic songs as entertainment. The celebrations continued well into the night, with champagne flowing and good wishes expressed for the happy couple. “People stayed all night because they were having a ball,” Mary says. “There was plenty of food left over so we went back the next day and ate some more.” Instead of buying wedding gifts Peter and Mary asked that guests donate to Cancer Council SA and they raised $465. The newlyweds set off to New Zealand on a two-week cruise for their honeymoon, which they thoroughly enjoyed. “It was our first time there and it was beautiful,” Peter says. Peter and Mary both agree that honesty is the most important element to sustain a relationship and value the qualities each other possesses. “He’s very kind,” Mary says. “He thinks he has to look after me because I have a habit of tripping. I don’t lift my feet. I like him in the kitchen, whatever he cooks is good. He has a good sense of humour. We do laugh a lot and have a lot of fun. The time is going too quick.” Peter adores Mary equally as much, saying she’s very generous and lovable. “She’s lovely and very even tempered. I try to keep an argument going with her and she won’t. I like a little discussion with her. We’re good mates.” Mary laughs, saying, “I’ll tell you my opinion but I don’t argue. Life is too short to argue.”

Residents improve their health through yoga and meditation

After the class Sara asks each resident to discuss how they felt and where their mind was. Some of the answers included, ‘It was blank’, ‘I was thinking about my family’, and ‘It was nice and peaceful’.

Modified yoga and meditation classes at Charles Young Residential Care Centre are proving to be extremely popular, with up to 20 residents attending each week.

A number of attendees are from the memory support unit and could not sit still during the class when they first started attending. “For the residents with dementia their minds get confused so I am teaching them to absorb their mind and get some peace and harmony,” Sara says. “They have so much potential and they are really enlightened souls. One lady was angry at first because a lot of emotions came out during the meditation and she was not absorbing any activity. She has grown so much and her mind is at peace now.”

The centre’s Lifestyle and Therapy Assistant Sara Sarej began the classes in December 2013 and runs them in the activity hall. Sara has been overwhelmed with how well the residents have responded. “My father came to me in my dream and said it was my mission to make this happen,” she says. “I started with about four to five residents and now I have nearly 20.” The class begins with residents placing the back of their hands on top of each knee, a pose known as Guyan Mudra, and focusing on the music being played for a few minutes. They then lift up their right arm while breathing in and out and repeat with the left arm. Sara will ask them to try some other movements including lifting both arms up, lifting up the right and left leg, leaning forward to touch their toes or as far as they can reach, and tilting to the side. The last five minutes of the class are in silence to still the mind. “When we are absorbing our mind we are mastering our mind,” Sara says. “The mind absorbs the breathing pattern, giving the mind relaxation. When the mind, body and soul meet together that is yoga.”

With many studies proving yoga can increase mobility and improve wellbeing, it is not surprising the classes are enjoyed by all who attend. “I like to do it to pass the time and it’s very relaxing,” resident Joan Hosking says. Sara says the classes are about how the residents can balance and master their mind. “It can be difficult for them to see their own thought process but they are having big improvements and really doing well,” she says. “With two residents who are in the Acacia wing, I am so pleased and happy that after the class their minds are so balanced and they say thank you. The residents have given me the opportunity to respect human dignity.” Charles Young Residential Care Centre residents Bob Moyle and Joan Hosking enjoy practising chair yoga moves with Lifestyle and Therapy Assistant Sara Sarej.

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Furry friends bring smiles to many residents Several of our residential care centres encourage volunteers to bring in their pet cat or dog every week or fortnight to visit residents for pet therapy. Research has revealed many benefits of pet therapy including decreased blood pressure and stress, improved communication, encouragement to stay healthy and exercise, and an improvement in motor skills.

Holly Residential Care Centre Magic Pudding is an 11 year old British Shorthair who visits up to 30 residents at Holly Residential Care Centre once a fortnight with his owner and volunteer Jane Armstrong. He is an award-winning cat who has won Cat of the Year at the Royal Adelaide Show four years running. Jane, who is a British Shorthair breeder, recently brought three kittens into the centre and also took them around to visit the residents.

Walkerville Residential Care Centre Volunteer Rae Trimmer brings her Kelpie Cross Maya, 14, to Walkerville Residential Care Centre once a fortnight to spend the afternoon cuddling with the residents. Maya was just six months old when she first started visiting the centre and was an Animal Welfare League orphan.

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Ridgehaven Residential Care Centre Residents at Ridgehaven Residential Care Centre are very lucky to have two dogs visit them. Volunteer Liz Morris brings in Fleur, 8, every week. Liz was working in the care centre’s café then started bring in Fleur and has been doing the visits for one and a half years. Volunteer Carol Tuck has been visiting residents with her Maltese Shih Tzu Lucy, 6, since June 2000.

Smithfield Residential Care Centre German Shepherd Lucy, 7, has been visiting Smithfield Residential Care Centre with her owner Alice Welbat weekly for five years. Alice says the best part is seeing the residents happy. “They see Lucy and they say they like dogs and that’s lovely. That’s our reward,” Alice says. Volunteer Gail Kurtz has been visiting the centre with her Papillon Chihuahua Chloe, 7, two days each week for six years. Gail and Chloe spend time with residents in the Memory Support Unit and the exercise group. “If someone is feeling a bit flat or lonely Chloe can tell and she’ll jump up on their lap,” Gail says.

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New skills for our grounds team In 2013, ECHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Property and Facilities Management department teamed up with TAFE to provide relevant training to a small group of site improvement officers. TAFE lecturers Pat Wake and Karen Raper guided the site improvement officers through the tailor-made course which expanded their knowledge of horticulture and equipped them with the tools to be able to enhance their service to our residents. The training program was initiated after a discussion with site improvement officers revealed they had an interest in learning further trade based skills to enhance their work.

An opportunity for government funding also assisted in making this venture possible. The staff involved in the program now have enhanced confidence to work and act autonomously within their areas of responsibility, increased knowledge about horticultural standards, and a greater ability to communicate with residents effectively about the work ECH is carrying out. After completing the course, the participants were awarded with a Certificate III in Horticulture.

The following are brief responses from four of the participants about their involvement in the course. Dayle Anderson Employed by ECH for three years, studied last in 2000

How did ECH support you? DA. ECH helped with the organisation of the class and by letting me use the company vehicle to attend. If I was unsure on my studies Shane and Grahame were there to help with my questions.

What did you enjoy most about the course? DA. Learning different and the right

Andrew Ferguson Employed by ECH for 18 years, studied last in 1983

What did you enjoy most about the course? AF. Working as a team and learning new aspects of my job and at the same time re-affirming that what I knew was correct and to enhance those abilities.

How has this helped you in your role? AF. Provided more confidence in what I do,

techniques for the purpose of my job.

knowing that we now have confirmation and clarity on tasks that we do are done right.

What do you enjoy most about your job? DA. Watching things grow.

What do you enjoy most about your job? AF. Dealing with residents. Making a difference to their lives and areas in which they live. Working in a great team with the same focus and goals.

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1. Site Improvement Officer Dayle Anderson receives his certificate from ECH Chief Executive Rob Hankins 2. Site Improvement Officers Andrew Ferguson, Jim Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly and Leo Portelli 3.TAFE Senior Lecturer Pat Wake (front row, far left) and ECH Facilities Manager, Grounds, Shane Hill (back row, far left) with the site improvement officers who completed the course

John Idema Employed by ECH for nearly 12 years, first full-time study in nearly 25 years

What was it like to work full-time and study at the same time? JI. Relatively easy as often we studied as a group which actually made it good fun.

How did ECH support you? JI. ECH was great. We were given

Mark Verdurmen Employed by ECH for nine years, hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t studied for 10 years

everything that was required including time, materials and workspace.

What did you enjoy most about the course? MV. The interaction between members of our

How has this helped you in your role? JI. I use the knowledge I have gained daily.

study group. An appreciation of the extent of the industry and the chance to apply new-found knowledge in the workplace.

The course has backed up my previous experience and given me confidence in myself with the horticultural field. 2

How has this helped you in your role? MV. Increased confidence. Increased knowledge.

What do you enjoy most about your job? MV. The interaction with residents. The satisfaction of improving the lifestyle of our clients.

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Enhancing communication through modern technology Profile Interactive

Have you explored the interactive version of our latest annual report? Profile Interactive 2012/13 is an online publication which incorporates a range of elements such as image galleries, pop up stories and videos, making the annual report come alive on your screen. Visit www.publications.ech.asn.au to view our interactive report. Please note that the features of this online document are best viewed using a desktop or laptop computer as there are some compatibility issues with certain tablet and mobile devices.

Introducing iPads With tablet technology advancing at a rapid rate, ECH’s Property and Facilities Management team has taken advantage of the benefits that these devices offer. “The introduction of the iPads for the maintenance and grounds teams as well as other staff has been an initiative to further improve service delivery to our residents,” ECH’s Property and Facilities Management Manager Graeme Dolman says.

Maintenance and grounds personnel now have complete access, regardless of their location, to the software program which is used to log, track, assign and close work requests. They all now have email capabilities and no longer need to make the journey back to the Kidman Park depot to use a work computer. “It can all be done on the iPad now,” Projects Coordinator, Facilities, Michael Goodwin says. Michael uses his work iPad regularly and, with his job involving many site visits, he finds it an invaluable resource. All of the property information and programs are at his fingertips while onsite, as if he was still sitting in front of his desktop computer back at the office. “I can even bring up building plans,” Michael says. “I don’t have to carry them around anymore.” To prevent security breaches, the iPad itself is password protected and individual software programs are secured by further passwords. The added feature of a camera only makes the iPad even more useful to the team. Michael uses the camera regularly to document required repairs or upgrades when scoping vacant units. “The camera is invaluable,” he says. “The iPad is really a notebook. It’s a visual notebook.” He can now more easily file the photographs he takes which also saves him time. With so much now able to be done onsite, processes have been streamlined and staff are able to provide a more effective and responsive service to residents and internal customers. “I wouldn’t be without it,” Michael says. “It’s absolutely brilliant.”

An iPad is a small tablet computer which can be wirelessly connected to the internet. These have replaced the previous devices used by the team which had limited capabilities in comparison. 2

1. Profile Interactive 2. Close up of Michael’s iPad

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Michael Goodwin with Maintenance Officer Paul Gunn.

Miky brings a unique gift to Ridgehaven Residential Care Centre

Many personal stories about autism make us smile and remind us that we all need a sense of value in our community. Ridgehaven Residential Care Centre’s newest volunteer Mikaela lives with autism and her journey at the centre is one of these inspiring stories. Miky, as she loves to be called, brings a new dimension of care, understanding and companionship every time she enters the centre to begin her shift of taking the magazine and lolly trolley around to the residents. The residents pay a few dollars for the items and the money is put back into lifestyle resources like chocolates for the Easter raffle and other projects. Turning her lifetime dream of working with older people into a reality is well underway as Miky has been volunteering at Ridgehaven Residential Care Centre on a once-a-week basis since February 2014. “Her dream is to come and talk to residents of a care centre,” Miky’s support worker Lia Balnaves says. “Her favourite thing to do is talk to older ladies. It’s been her biggest goal.” As Miky’s support worker, Lia worked alongside Miky to secure her a volunteer position in a care centre. Lia made some calls, got onto Ridgehaven Residential Care Centre and spoke with Lifestyle Coordinator Karen Cranney and ECH Volunteer Program Manager Kylie Maher, explaining what Miky wanted to do. She was met with open arms and encouragement. “Karen and Kylie were amazing and supported us from the start,” Lia says. “Kylie organised a one-on-one induction so Miky was able to get the most value out of it. Miky worked really hard and I supported this growth and learning in preparation for seeking a volunteer position.”

Karen created the trolley for Miky to facilitate her being able to meet more residents by taking the trolley around to their rooms and offering them magazines, chocolates and lollies. “We are very thankful to Karen and Kylie as they have been important in helping us get the trolley started,” Lia says. Without having to converse, Miky’s connection with the residents is immediate and powerful. She remembers every single resident’s name and her demeanour is gentle and kind. “There are a few residents Miky has made great friends with,” Lia says. “There’s this understanding between them. She can just stand there and hold their hand and not say anything. Miky is gradually learning more and more about conversation so it’s growing her as well.” Karen says the exchange has been “a real twoway street”. “The residents have really captured their own person in Miky,” she says. “A lot of the residents Miky sees don’t always want to come out of their room into the general area so Miky goes into their rooms and they have a chat.” A devoted fan of the movie The Notebook, Miky embodies a beautiful soul, pouring her love and unique wit into each and every connection she makes with the residents of Ridgehaven Residential Care Centre. 1. Miky with residents Charlie Paull and Jane Odgers and the lolly trolley 2. Ridgehaven Residential Care Centre’s Lifestyle Coordinator Karen Cranney, Miky, Miky’s Support Worker Lia Balnaves and Disability Mentor Nikki Longmire 3. Miky (centre) with residents Evelyn McLean and Wini Bates

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Living better through the Living Well Program The Living Well Program is a one-on-one service supporting older people to increase their confidence and social connections, particularly at times of loneliness and social isolation. This short-term service (12-14 weeks) is tailored to support people 65 years and over, and 50 years and over for Aboriginal or Torres Straight Islanders, to increase community engagement. The program uses goal setting and coaching to assist participants to address barriers, increase confidence, motivation, social connections and independence. It also helps improve mental and physical health and wellbeing.

George’s green thumb gets results for community garden As a former practising horticulturalist, it is no surprise Living Well Program client George Schoneveld feels right at home volunteering at St Bede’s Community Garden in Semaphore. George joined the program in October 2013 after struggling to find hobbies that stimulated him while looking for something to become actively involved in. With a craving for community interaction and spirit, gardening, and a desire to make a difference, the garden was the perfect option to accelerate George’s community involvement. Living Well Project Officer Tamara Featherston introduced George to the garden’s coordinator Ollie Black and the two started a successful working relationship. “I liked the way Ollie was working with the compost and she has a tub full of worms which is good,” George says. “Ollie gave me my own plot to start working on.

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After the project officer meets with participants in their home for the initial meeting, goals are developed and social engagement options are researched and explored together. The project officer may take participants to activities initially to alleviate anxieties, or may provide information for participants to explore their options independently. One-off domestic assistance to address barriers to social connections may be provided through the program, with the main goal to increase social connection and reduce loneliness.

It was full of weeds and the plants had died so I cleaned it up. I am thinking of putting herbs there which can be used at the villa I live in at Semaphore.” George has a key to the garden and can go there anytime he chooses but usually attends twice a week and does activities like spraying weeds and collecting seeds. “Ollie and I, we go and have a look through the garden at what needs doing, like picking fruit, watering, picking old flowers and general cleaning up,” George says. “I like the quietness here in the middle of the traffic. I enjoy the smells.” Ollie says having someone with George’s knowledge is very helpful. “He has been able to suggest remedies and what we can do with what we call weeds and how we can use them in different ways,” she says. “He’s been teaching me a lot and it’s a great exchange.”

New experiences bring John to life Since completing ECH’s Living Well Program, John Sargent has transformed into a social butterfly who is eager to reconnect with his community and willing to try new activities. John enjoys filling his days with outings and has participated in the Fresh on Fridays exercise group at Holden Hill Community Centre, the Heart Foundation Holden Hill walking group, and the walking group at Wandana Community Centre at Gilles Plains. John also attended the Collinswood over 50s group on a Thursday where he enjoyed playing darts, snooker and cards.

Arnie feels at home at the men’s shed After his wife went into full-time care, Arnie Driver was searching for something to become involved in and was introduced to the Northern Living Well Program where he found his niche at the Pooraka Farm Men’s Shed.

Being part of the Living Well Program enabled John to gain confidence, attend groups independently, and there have been improvements in his motivation. “I enjoy the combination of the activities and mixing with people,” John says.

Through the program, Project Officer Ashling Robinson introduced him to the men’s shed where they organise the repair of up to 50 bikes a year that have been donated by Bike SA and the general public. Here, Arnie spends two days a week repairing bicycles for migrants and lower income earners who need transport. Since participating in the program, Arnie has learnt basic bike maintenance and safety procedures that help him identify problem areas when he is repairing the bikes. Arnie uses a checklist to work from to ensure the bikes are roadworthy before they are given to places such as Anglicare, the Migrant Resource Centre of South Australia, and Families SA. Arnie says the best thing about the program is the “companionship”. He enjoys utilising his skills in metal work and tool making and created a solar panel battery charger for his gopher, which he uses frequently to venture out and about. Arnie completed the program in February 2014, as he is managing well at home, with services in place at this time. Arnie reported a 20 per cent improvement in his independence and a 40 per cent improvement in his quality of life since being involved with the program.

For more information on the Living Well Program please contact Independent Living Services on 8407 5111.

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ECH Consumer Reference Group gives clients more say ECH Community Services has established a pilot Consumer Reference Group to support and improve effective communication between ECH and its consumers. The purpose of the group is to provide a regular forum to give users of community services the opportunity to work alongside ECH to inform and influence improvements in policy and procedures, consultation processes, staff development, and better targeting of community services to people aged 65 and over. The group, formed in June 2013, is comprised of seven members, all users of ECH Community Services, including Barbara Carlsen, Dianne Stewart, Peter McKay, Robyn Ward, Janet Redfern, Ros Lock and Nancy Fletcher. There are a range of principles that have guided the development of the group, with the most important one being that everyone has the right to have a say, be heard and be involved in decisions that may affect them. The group influences continuous improvements in ECH Community Services by providing feedback on their experience of using services, what works or doesn’t work with the services they use, what else would make a difference, and ideas for improvements. The group is currently recruiting for people who are receiving in-home assistance from ECH. Meetings are held once a month at a venue close to the city. If you would like more information about the group please contact Therapy Services Coordinator Katey Elding on 8361 5350 or Social Programs Manager Valerie Aldahn on 8407 5236.

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Back row: Valerie Aldahn, Carolyn Kelley, Peter McKay, Robyn Ward, Barbara Carlsen and Katey Elding Front row: Dianne Stewart, Janet Redfern, Ros Lock and Nancy Fletcher

What the members are saying: Barbara Carlsen is an ECH independent living unit resident. She also receives an ECH community package and attends Seaside Wellness. “I have learnt a lot about ECH since joining the group. There are so many people using services that I wasn’t aware of. All the wellness centres are really beneficial and I wasn’t aware they were available. A friend’s mother was really sick and I mentioned to her the services available. I live in an ECH unit so I want to promote what ECH offers. I think I’ve hit a gold mine. I’m living in a village that is peaceful and calm, private and secure. Being part of the group has helped me feel I have something to contribute and the meetings are educational. Through ECH and the support I’ve received I feel whole and I’m slowly regaining my wellness.”

Dianne Stewart’s husband attends Walkerville Day Program. “My husband is a client. Without services like the day centre it would make it almost impossible to care for him at home. I feel honoured to have some input into the way that decisions are made. It is good to participate. Joining the group has been really satisfying as well.”

Janet Redfern attends Greenacres Therapy Service. “I feel much better since having been involved with ECH. I feel as well as I can be and am very happy with myself. Everybody in the group has been very friendly.”

Peter McKay attends Greenacres Therapy Service. “I got introduced to ECH after I had a heart bypass four years ago. As part of the rehabilitation I was directed to ECH as a place to do activities. Joining this group I have been amazed by the services offered by ECH and the dedication of the staff at Greenacres Therapy Service. The care they give is just amazing.”

Creative corner Old Jimmy By Denis McGill Mervyn Graham Lodge

Mervyn Graham Lodge resident Denis M cGill

Old Jimmy sipped his schooner as he leaned back in his chair And his rheumy, bloodshot eyes grew dim and faded to a stare, As his mind now wandered fondly to the old days that he’d spent Just a’roamin’ ‘round Australia, anywhere that his feet went.

Photo courtesy of The Times, Victor Harbor

There were times when he went shearin’ way up north along the tracks That led to all those stations scattered ‘round the vast outback When he’d bent his back with ringers and he’d kept up with the best, Only stopping for the lunch break, when they all had earned a rest. There were days, when mounted on a wild young brumby that he’d broke When he’d gone a’musterin’ cattle, sharing tucker and a joke With the other drovers, white or black, it didn’t matter much, For whatever was their colour they all had that common touch. And he’d tried his hand at cookin’, feeding gangs of hungry men Who had shiacked and abused him, but it didn’t matter then For he knew that it was in good fun, the normal thing to do When he served up some concoction masquerading as a stew. And when the fences needed fixin’ he’d gone out to work alone Away out in the donga where the desert winds would moan And conjure up vague images of tragic days of yore When starvation, thirst and heat had claimed those men who’d gone before. There were some days when exhaustion almost made him call it quits, But the will to go on livin’ always brought him to his wits And he soldiered on, determined to survive another day As he swore the old Grim Reaper wouldn’t have the final say.

Are you a writer or poet? We would love to hear from our residents and clients who have a passion for creative writing. If you would like to share your pieces in our magazine, please contact: Marketing Telephone: 8407 5135 Email: publications@ech.asn.au

But now Jim’s mind returns again to be among his friends, Who understand Old Jimmy and accept he sometimes tends To wander off to bygone days when he was just a lad, To the times he always reckoned were the best times that he’d had. They were bonzer days, he reckons, as he bends his cronies’ ears, When a quid was worth a fortune and it bought a lot of beers And the men around the outback were all wiry, lean and trim As they worked hard and they played hard, for to slacken was a sin. Now they sit on the verandah of the old Mount Mary pub And their eyes take in the vastness of the dry Australian scrub And they take their turn at shoutin’ – “Six more schooners for the boys,” for a quiet drink with mates is all that’s left them to enjoy. For they’d all been through the hard times, the Depression and the war And they’d all worked hard at livin’, never rich but never poor, For they were true Australians, born and bred in Aussie Land And they built a proud tradition that we all should understand.

ECH Inc | 2014 | ECHo! ISSUE No. 151 |

Happy times at David Read Lodge On 8th December 2013 a most successful social function was held at David Read Lodge at Lockleys, convened by resident Fay Woodger. It was very enjoyable and some residents even met each other for the very first time. 2

1. Barb Schunke, Fay Woodger and Pam Minear 2. Janet Hills and June Levy 3. Val Keough and Jean Battye 4. Dick and Barb Schunke

Social Pages 1

Regularly enjoying Friday afternoon socials, Knightsbridge residents had an extra special reason to celebrate when they got together on 14th March 2014. In five days’ time, on 19th March 2014, it would be resident Helen Caterer’s 100th birthday. Helen’s neighbours joined together in singing Happy Birthday and shared in a delicious cake. Long life is not uncommon in her family, and Helen has lived hers with vigour and passion, and still does. Helen was a journalist for many years and worked for the Sunday Mail for almost three decades. She is also well known for her work with the paper’s Blanket Appeal and for starting up the Supporting Mothers Association. These projects led her to be recognised as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1964. Helen has travelled the world, both for work and for pleasure, and is a published author and accomplished artist. Her published books include Foreigner in Kweilin, Australians Outback: 60 Years of the Bush Church Aid Society and her autobiography People, Places and Blankets 3 Galore.

Happy Birthday Helen 2

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Helen Caterer MBE celebrates 100 years

If you would like to read more about Helen’s amazing life, please read the article published in ECHo! 145, April 2012, on pages 12 and 13.

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1. Helen Caterer (front row, centre) celebrating her 100th birthday with her neighbours at Knightsbridge 2. Helen Caterer with neighbour Jan O’Donnell 3. The residents of Knightsbridge regularly get together but particularly enjoyed this momentous occasion

DAVID READ LODGE

5. Angus Morris, Neville Atkinson and Malcolm Levy 6. Helen Pearl and Ellen Miller 7. Margaret and John Chick 8. Margaret Kalms, Gwen Wellington, Margaret Chick and Helen Pearl 9. Angus Morris and Elsie Crook

During this year’s state election Smithfield Residential Care Centre’s activity hall was used as a polling booth for the seat of Napier. Everything ran smoothly on the day and residents didn’t need to go far to submit their vote. The care centre was then chosen as the location to host the declaration of electorate, where Jon Gee MP was officially announced as the winner. After giving a short speech, Jon spent time chatting with residents and having afternoon tea. 4

5 1

1. Graham Roberts, Crispin Joos, Fred Fiedler, John Smith and Jon Gee MP 2. Resident John Smith shakes hands with Member for Napier Jon Gee MP 3. Shirley Wilson and Myra Hodge meeting Jon Gee MP 4. Fred Cowdrey having a chat with Jon Gee MP 5. Elfriede Gropp and Crispin Joos with Jon Gee MP

ECH Inc | 2014 | ECHo! ISSUE No. 151 |

SMITHFIELD RESIDENTIAL CARE CENTRE

Smithfield Residential Care Centre hosts declaration of electorate for Napier

Strong family history lives through generations The history of Peter McGregor-Reid’s family, whose origins stem from the successful South Australian tanning business John Reid & Sons, is rich and deep, bonded together by each new generation’s passion for discovering the tales and journeys of their parents, grandparents, great-grandparents and so on. Peter, who resides at Davis Court village, is a proud family man and one of the many successful men in the McGregor-Reid family who has wonderful stories to share. Born and raised in Burra, a rural centre and historic tourist town east of the Clare Valley, Peter grew up on a farm south of Farrell Flat and was nurtured by a humble and loving family who demonstrated that hard work is the most valuable currency in the bank account of life. “If Dad went to Clare he would come home with a lovely piece of roast beef and it was like crayfish at Christmas time,” Peter recalls. “We rode horses to school three miles away and collected birds’ eggs and Monday was always washing day.” Harnessing a strong work ethic from a young age, Peter witnessed the beauty of his father’s skilled labour on the farm and credits him for his strong parenting ability. “My father was the first in the district to give up horses and use machinery like a Caterpillar tractor,” he says. “He would grow up to 800 acres of wheat and barley a year. I learnt a tremendous amount from my father. He was a wonderful man and he would often say,

‘Son, if you want to succeed in life follow the Ten Commandments.’ He was a very quiet and intelligent man who was very good to all of us. I had a very sound home life and upbringing.” Following in the footsteps of his long line of descendants, Peter owned and operated farms and acquired property, including acres from his great-grandfather who owned two hotels. “My friends and I often chat about what a good era it was when we grew up,” Peter says. “Life was very peaceful and we were very close as a family.” Along the way, Peter married Victoria and they had 10 successful years on their farm at Farrell Flat before they moved to the south east of South Australia for Victoria to take up the management of Padthaway Estate on the Limestone Coast. They purchased two properties which kept Peter very busy, one near Frances and the other just on the outskirts of Naracoorte. They later sold up in the south east and moved to Adelaide and Peter worked at Collinsville Station, north of Burra, then spent some four years developing olive and carob plantations at Skilly Hills in the Auburn Valley.

2 1

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1. Peter’s father and mother on their wedding day in 1941 2. Completing eight generations of Reids 1812- 2005 3. Peter and Victoria were married on July 31, 1968

Eventually, Peter decided he would transition to city life permanently and made enquiries with ECH about moving to an independent living village. “I decided on this because I know the area,” Peter says. “I fell in love with the north facing view. I can sit out on the verandah which is warm and sunny in the winter. I am extremely lucky and happy to be here. My neighbours are great. I chat with them, we have coffee and I cut the roses and give them to some of the ladies here. It’s a beautiful environment.” While there are no manicured vineyards or open stretches of coast in his neighbourhood, Peter is extremely happy with his lifestyle. “I walk every day to the local shopping centre and when friends from the country come down we go to the Walkers Arms for lunch,” he says. “I always have music playing and I love reading. I take my mother’s elderly friend shopping at Burnside every Friday and we enjoy a few hours out. I’ve had wealth and properties in the mid north and southeast but even if I won the lottery it would take a lot to get me out of here. This is so secure with gorgeous garden surrounds which are well maintained so I couldn’t ask for better. The effort that ECH put in and the way they follow up is brilliant. It is a wonderful organisation.” Although he’s slowed down significantly and mastered a more low-key lifestyle, Peter’s gratitude and patience are qualities that have remained intact from his younger days. “I’m a contented 72-yearold,” he says. “I have a wicked sense of humour and I aim to have fun wherever I go and I intend to make the most of every situation. I’ve had a good life with plenty of memories and I will endeavour to grow old gracefully.”

Notices Do you know someone who prefers their ECH publications in large print or on audio CD? This can be arranged as the Royal Society for the Blind kindly translates our publications into your preferred format. For a copy contact: Marketing ECH Inc Reply Paid 83158 Parkside SA 5063 Telephone: 8407 5135 Email: publications@ech.asn.au

ISSUE No. 149 | 2013

PROFILE 2012/13 Creativity a winner at ECH

Want to be on the ECH mailing list? If you would like to be added to the ECH mailing list please contact: Marketing ECH Inc Reply Paid 83158 Parkside SA 5063 Telephone: 8407 5135 Email: publications@ech.asn.au

Peter enjoy

s reading o utside in his villag e.

ECH Inc | 2014 | ECHo! ISSUE No. 151 |

BOOKING FOR

2014 Holiday unit booking form

Please complete the form below and return it to: Retirement Living ECH Inc 174 Greenhill Road Parkside SA 5063 Ph: 8407 5115

NAME

ADDRESS

PHONE

Holiday unit bookings ECH provides two well appointed holiday units at Ardrossan and Victor Harbor which are available to independent living unit residents. Making a booking is as easy as completing the form opposite, cutting it out and returning it to Reception at ECH’s Corporate Office in Parkside. The holiday units at Ardrossan and Victor Harbor are two bedroom, catering for a maximum of four people (one double bed and two singles). A few things to remember: • The holiday booking is for seven nights.

MOBILE

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

ARDROSSAN

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

Unit 14, 32 Oval Terrace Fee for seven night stay 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 Fee for seven night stay 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

BOOKING PREFERENCES 1. 2.

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•

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. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to call us on 8407 5115.

ECH wishes you a happy and enjoyable holiday.

COVER STORY ECH shifts focus to give more people greater choices to age in their home ECH is dedicating itself exclusively to community focused services, including increasing the options available in affordable age-friendly homes, as its response to the ever escalating needs of older people in our society. This shift in focus has led ECH to sell its 11 residential aged care centres in South Australia and the Northern Territory. The 10 South Australian care centres have been sold to aged care provider Allity. At the time of publication ECH is continuing its commitment to finding a buyer for the Northern Territory care centre and community based services that shares ECH’s care philosophies and values. The ownership transfer also includes Food Services, those parts of Property and Facilities Management and Corporate Services that are predominantly involved with the care centres, and the 24 independent living units at Heathfield in the Adelaide Hills that are interconnected and operationally integrated with Hillside Residential Care Centre. The transfer of the services in South Australia occurred on 30th May 2014. The transfer of the services in the Northern Territory will be advised as soon as an agreement is reached with a suitable buyer. Chief Executive Rob Hankins says the sale will free up significant funds for investment in ‘ageing at home’ as ECH increases and diversifies its community services to people’s homes and expands on its 97 retirement villages around South Australia. “This will enable ECH to extend the social benefit it brings to the South Australian community,” Rob says. “Society’s expectations around ageing and the needs of older people are changing and ECH is responding. ECH’s focus will be on giving more people the opportunity and flexibility to decide where they receive the care and support they require as they age.” The ECH Board’s decision to pass on its well regarded, high quality residential aged care centres and directly related care services to focus solely on independent retirement living and community services honours and aligns with ECH’s 1964 founding mission. “We want to provide a wider choice of services to support a greater number of older people, particularly

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ndent living lates indepe tu ra r g n co s siding in he Rob Hankin utton on re S h . it 3 d 1 0 E 2 t r n e e ctob unit resid a lunch in O t a rs a e y 9 unit for 3

people on lower and middle incomes, to live longer, enriched and happy lives as they age in the home of their choice.” All of the 1,100 residents of ECH’s residential care centres in South Australia will maintain their occupancy arrangements and all staff employed in these care centres, about 1,350 in all, have been offered continuing employment with Allity. “We carefully chose Allity as the ideal buyer of these aged care services,” Rob says. “The Allity leadership, their people, care philosophies and values strongly align with those of ECH. We know that the residents in the care centres, and those of our staff who are moving to Allity are joining an exceptional organisation. Until ECH finds a buyer who shares our care philosophies and values for the Northern Territory care centre and community based services, ECH will continue to support staff, residents and clients and maintain the high level of service and support to which they are accustomed.” Independent retirement living unit residents are reassured the sale of ECH’s residential care centres will not have any impact on ECH assisting them in the event that they may require residential care at any time in the future. We are committed to assisting our residents should they need access to these services. ECH continues to control $400 million worth of retirement and community services assets. It maintains a workforce of more than 700 people and already provides community services and/ or independent retirement living units to more than 6,000 older people. This level of support will expand and diversify in coming years.