ECHo! Issue 147 - March 2013 by WorldWeb Group

MARCH 2013 | ISSUE No. 147

A new wave in health and wellbeing

Contents

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A new wave in health and wellbeing

Welcome to Oakden Estate

Find your home at Walkerville

A furry adventure

Flourishing among the flowers

Adventures in happiness and hardship

Lost in the maze of aged care services?

Enrich the lives of older people through financial support

Fit and feisty for life

Top ratings for our Community Services

Dorothy Brunka: employee, resident and client

Retirement Living village upgrades

Celebrating 50 years

Long-serving employees

Developing services in response to community need

MARCH 2013 | ISSUE No. 147

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Thirty-five years of volunteering

Heart attacks: watch out for warning signs

Learning lessons about life

Are you ready for the digital age of television?

Notices

Taking home the prize for talent

Social pages

Holiday unit booking form 2013

ECHo! survey 2013

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ECHo! Cover image: Pilates session at Seaside Wellness in Henley Beach.

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

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

COVER STORY

A new wave in health and wellbeing New centre opened in Henley Beach, including: • Seasiders (day program) • Seaside Wellness (expanded therapy services) ECH is excited to announce that its newest therapy and day program centre in Henley Beach is now operational. Situated in a former community nursing home building, the centre has been refurbished to accommodate a range of new community support and wellbeing programs. It has also provided us with the opportunity to expand the services that have been running at our adjoining Western Therapy Service site, now called Seaside Wellness.

Seasiders

COVER STORY

With two spacious rooms, each equipped with activity area, kitchen, outdoor area and lounge, we have launched a new day program called Seasiders. Seasiders provides fulfilling and rejuvenating sessions for older people with memory loss, and also offers support to their carers. Seasiders is focused on wellbeing and enjoyment, providing opportunities for older people with memory loss to be creative, seek new experiences and socialise in a friendly, welcoming environment. Sessions are varied, providing support that suits individual needs and interests, and include: • mixed sessions allowing carers and those they care for to attend together • a men’s club providing support and activities targeted at older males • art sessions for enhancing wellbeing through creativity Seasiders provides a wide range of activities for participants and their carers. Activity choices include outings, gardening, exercises, crafts, involvement in the community and much more. Carers are further supported through our new counselling and advice services that can be accessed in person or via telephone. Seasiders will also be home to the Third Place Café, offering carers a space to relax, take a break and socialise with other carers. ECH will continue to develop and expand these services, responding to the needs of the local community as required. “The new site is really a blank canvas,” Betty Hurrell, Seasiders Coordinator, says. “The possibilities are endless.” Betty is currently collaborating with several organisations involved in supporting older people who have memory loss and dementia, and their carers, to establish new programs. For more information about Seasiders, please contact Betty Hurrell on 8356 5398.

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Sundowner Plus Sundowner Plus is a late afternoon respite program run by ECH in Henley Beach. It has previously been held using the facilities at our Seaside Wellness and Crichton Court sites but has now been welcomed into its new home at Seasiders. The new rooms enable us to cater for the increasing number of older people participating in groups to maintain their health and wellbeing. The Sundowner Plus program is similar to our other day programs, but is unique in that it commences in the late afternoon. For more information, please contact Helen Hassall, Program Coordinator, on 8356 5398.

Seaside Wellness Seaside Wellness is the new name for ECHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Western Therapy Service in Henley Beach. An additional area adjacent to Seasiders has been refurbished with purpose-built rooms for classes such as Tai Chi and Pilates, client assessments and podiatry consults. Seaside Wellness offers a range of therapy and exercise options for older people, including general fitness groups and also sessions targeted at managing or improving specific health conditions. Each group is run by a qualified instructor. Assessments are provided for new clients so that specific health requirements and preferences can be met through individually tailored programs. In addition to podiatry services, other allied health support is also available, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and dietetics. Referrals and/or medical clearances are generally required to access most of our therapy services. For more information about Seaside Wellness, please speak to our friendly staff on 8356 3169. For more information about our other ECH Therapy Service locations, please see page 17.

Fees Affordable fees apply to our services at Seasiders and Seaside Wellness. A weekly fee cap also applies to most of our services.

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Client stories Harold and Betty Boss Seasiders

COVER STORY

Betty was attending the Embassy Ball when a handsome, young Harold came to her side and asked if she would do him the honour of dancing with him. “I said I’d love to,” Betty recalls. “And that’s how it started!” Still very much in love, Harold and Betty recently celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary. The couple has always been active throughout their lives, working hard and enjoying many dances together as well as regular walks. Harold also spent many years umpiring netball. At the end of 2012, Harold broke his hip and was separated from Betty for several weeks while recuperating in hospital. With their health concerns, they haven’t been going out as much and Betty says her daughters were worried that they were both staying home too much. So Betty and Harold have started to attend Seasiders together on a weekly basis and are thoroughly enjoying it. Seasiders will also provide Harold with extra rehabilitative therapy to assist him with his recovery. Betty is very glad to have Harold by her side again and they both hope to make a regular appearance at Seasiders.

Gail Bodnick

Sundowner Plus

Before attending the Sundowner Plus program, Gail reports that she didn’t have many opportunities for socialising or using her creativity. “I don’t normally do anything at night time and it gets lonely,” Gail says. “That’s where this means a lot to me. It’s the company.” Once introduced to Sundowner Plus, Gail hasn’t looked back and has even increased her attendance from one night to three. “I felt I was missing out on things by only coming once,” she says. Gail has also discovered a passion for scrapbooking at the program and has since created several beautiful and colourful pages, each one capturing cherished memories of the experiences she and other attendees have had during their evenings together. “It has given me an interest,” Gail says, reporting that she enjoys scrapbooking so immensely that she can spend hours working on a piece. Now she doesn’t go anywhere without a compact digital camera, always ready to capture images for new scrapbook pages. “I’m loving it,” Gail says. “I don’t know what I’d do without Sundowners.” Suffering from several debilitating health conditions, Gail sometimes finds it difficult to stay positive but says that the staff at the program are always supportive and uplifting. She has many other skills, such as cooking and gardening, which are put to good use through Sundowner Plus. “I feel good because I’m appreciated,” Gail says. Gail loves the new building, particularly the outdoor garden area which she is helping to bring to life.

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James Sinclair

Seasiders

A well-tuned rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ could be heard coming from the lively Seasiders men’s club on 24th January 2013. They gathered around James Sinclair to celebrate his 75th birthday, which was on 25th January 2013.

James has a great time attending Seasiders and says, “I thoroughly enjoy it. You get to do what you want, when you want.” Being a regular croquet player and volunteer at the Grange Golf Club, he is usually up for playing a game and having “a crack at anything”. A broken wrist is currently limiting him for the moment but hasn’t stopped him from being a part of the animated social time that the men’s club is becoming renowned for. James notes that what is special about the group is the friendship of the other men who attend. When he can’t play sport, you’ll find him relaxing in the Seasiders lounge watching it on television!

Brian Hill

Seaside Wellness

“Use it or lose it!” is Brian Hill’s reason for getting involved in regular exercise. A resident of ECH’s Crichton Court semi-independent village, Brian participates in multiple fitness sessions each week to maintain his flexibility, strength and balance. Always having led an active life, Brian was heavily involved in sport, particularly baseball and then golf. Although he has had to give this up due to his health, it hasn’t stopped him taking an interest in doing whatever he can to stay fit. “It’s a must,” Brian says. “I don’t want to vegetate!” Suffering from cramps, Brian finds that regular exercise helps to relieve his discomfort while also improving his general wellbeing. However, he says that being as healthy as he can be requires attention on both the body and the mind, and he gives his brain a workout by doing daily crosswords. Brian is also looking forward to joining a Pilates class in April.

Seasiders 11 Laidlaw Street Henley Beach SA 5022 Phone: 8356 5398 Fax: 8353 3642 Are you: • over 65 (or 55 with early onset of dementia), experiencing memory loss and seeking a place of understanding, fulfillment and opportunities for enjoying life? • a carer who needs support and advice or a chance to rejuvenate? Call Seasiders now on 8356 5398! ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Seaside Wellness 168a Cudmore Terrace Henley Beach SA 5022 Phone: 8356 3169 Fax: 8356 7014 Are you 60 or over and: • looking to maintain or enhance your fitness, strength, flexibility and general wellbeing? • seeking to improve your management of a chronic health condition? • needing rehabilitative therapy? • requiring support or advice from an allied health professional such as a physiotherapist, occupational therapist or dietitian? If you responded yes to any of the questions above, speak to our friendly staff now on 8356 3169! If Henley Beach is not a convenient location, see page 17 for our other ECH Therapy Service locations.

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Welcome to Oakden Estate ECH’s newest retirement living community, located ten minutes from the heart of the city, was officially launched on 31st October 2012.

If in-home support is required later in life, the large bathroom, shower alcove and spacious master bedroom make care and home modifications an easy option.

Oakden Estate comprises 15 newly constructed villas located in the north-eastern suburbs of Adelaide. The village has been skilfully designed to support contemporary retirement lifestyle needs. The modern designs of the villas provide comfort and efficiency with a cost-saving Six Star energy rating.

• solar panels • solar hot water system • passive heating/cooling through layout and orientation • insulation to ceiling and internal walls • blinds to windows • high performance window film to north and west facing windows • solid timber external doors

With an overwhelming response received from the community, the launch event was attended by more than 110 guests (see images below) who were treated to a first look at the new village’s contemporary designs and open plan living spaces. With three floor plans to choose from, each villa offers: • • • • • • •

two bedrooms separate laundry plenty of storage undercover outdoor entertaining area second toilet private rear yard garage under main roof

Special features including wider door widths, greater accessibility and level access to all areas which enables residents to stay as independent as possible and remain at home for many years to come.

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Each villa has been designed to save residents money on utility bills as well as being environmentally friendly, including features such as:

Close to shops, cafés, restaurants, parks, public transport and medical facilities, Oakden Estate is ideally located. As with our other villages, the villas and communal grounds are fully maintained by ECH’s dedicated team of maintenance professionals. Residents can also access information and support from our unique Independent Living Services team about issues concerning them when required.

Retirement villas are now selling at Oakden Estate with a range of financial options available. For more information, please contact Independent Retirement Living on 8407 5115 or visit our website www.ech.asn.au.

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Find your home at Walkerville Walkerville Residential Care Centre lies alongside the River Torrens and Linear Park in Adelaide’s peaceful inner north-eastern suburbs. Approximately five kilometres from the city, the care centre provides low and high levels of permanent and respite care. Spacious single, twin and semi-private share rooms accommodate a total of 152 residents, with each room featuring an ensuite bathroom, telephone socket and individually controlled air-conditioning unit. All rooms enjoy an outlook onto landscaped gardens or courtyards. The low care rooms are also equipped with tea and coffee making areas. Nutritionally balanced meals are provided by ECH’s Food Services and are served to residents in a homely dining room setting. Menus offer varied options and residents are encouraged to be involved in selecting new menu items through tasting sessions. The lifestyle program offers a diverse range of activities, for both groups and individuals, to promote socialisation and to encourage residents to retain their interests or learn new skills. The program includes regular outings in the ECH bus to assist residents to stay in touch with the community.

Walkerville Residential Care Centre has homely furnishings and décor, and features: • a variety of large and small lounge and dining areas • private lounges and dining areas which can be booked for celebrations and family gatherings • an activity room for lifestyle groups, events and classes • coffee shop serving light snacks and drinks • hairdressing salon • onsite laundering and labelling service • landscaped gardens and courtyards • a secure Memory Support Unit with its own garden, for residents who require such safety • ‘ageing in place’ which minimises the need to move rooms despite changing care needs

Model of care ECH residential care centres provide care that is responsive to the needs of individuals and that enables them to continue making choices about their lifestyle wherever possible. Our ‘Lifestyle Model of Care’ ensures that our service delivery is flexible so that residents can live their life as close as possible to how they did in the community.

Levels of care offered High: Yes Low: Yes Respite: Yes Transitional: Yes Awaiting placement: Yes

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Admission and tours If you would like to learn more about the process of moving to residential care, please contact ECHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Referral Officer by phoning 8407 5192 or emailing referral@ech.asn.au. If you, or a relative or friend, are considering living at Walkerville Residential Care Centre, a tour can be arranged by phoning the care centre on 8342 8300.

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Enhancing Independence client stories

A furry adventure Kathleen Hall hadn’t been to the Adelaide Zoo since her son was a small child. Without transport, she used to think seeing some things would be impossible.

There are several lovely old buildings that have been turned into cafés near where Kathleen lives at Colonel Light Gardens. “We’ve tried just about every one,” Kathleen says.

Receiving assistance with shopping and cleaning from ECH Community Programs, Kathleen still had some support time available in her package of care. Her Home Support Worker Pam Crouch suggested that Kathleen might enjoy a regular outing. With ECH’s Enhancing Independence model of service, clients are encouraged to pursue things of interest to them or to seek new experiences. In addition, newer packages of care allow flexibility in how support time is spent, ensuring meaningful experiences for clients.

The pair’s latest adventure came about when Kathleen mentioned to Pam that she would love to see the pandas. Arrangements were made by Coordinator Dora Lee from the ECH Community Programs office at Westbourne Park and the trip was on! Despite the heat of the day, Kathleen enjoyed the special experience, spending much of her time watching Wang Wang and Funi. Many of the animals were taking afternoon naps, but Mujambi the lion decided to give them a show, one minute asleep and the next making everyone jump from his sudden roar!

Six months on, Kathleen couldn’t imagine not having a regular social outing with Pam. Together they have enjoyed the Japanese Gardens, seen the autumn leaves in Stirling and walked the jetty at Brighton. “All those things that without transport are hard to get to,” Kathleen says. “I wouldn’t have done them otherwise.” Kathleen and Pam regularly discuss new ideas for outings. Wherever they go, they always seem to end up somewhere for afternoon tea!

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Enhancing Independence client stories

Flourishing among the flowers If you’re looking for Roma Barrett, you’ll more than likely find her in her garden. Her front and backyards, and many of the outside spaces in between, are flourishing with plants of all kinds, creating a lovely and peaceful garden paradise. Roma’s love of gardening came from her grandmother. She fondly recalls how her grandmother would always take cuttings of anything she could find so she could grow it in her own garden. While tidily organised into sections by a winding stone path, Roma’s garden always provides her with delightful surprises due to its constantly changing appearance. She regularly tends to her plants, breaking pods open and spreading seeds around. “The garden looks different every time you go out there,” Roma says. From hollyhocks and mandevillas to fruit trees and bonsai, Roma is unable to count the number of plant varieties her garden contains. Spreading the joy of her garden to others, Roma also devotes her time to potting plants from cuttings for charity. Although she has been in the same home for 56 years, it was only in more recent times that Roma decided to transform her large backyard into its current flourishing state. With her renewed desire for gardening, Roma will often spend a few hours each morning tending to her plants, even on hot days. Receiving some support from ECH Community Programs, Roma prefers to manage as many of her home duties as she can, leaving her with time for trips to Bunnings with her home support worker to pick up supplies for her thriving garden. Expressing a desire to visit Virginia Nursery, ECH was able to arrange for a home support worker to accompany Roma to fulfill her wish. It was a hot and humid day but Roma enjoyed herself. “I had a good time and it was worthwhile seeing,” she says. “If I ever went again it would be in the winter though!”

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Adventures in happiness and hardship

Brenda May remembers her childhood days with fondness. Born into a loving family in 1920 during the Depression, her pleasures were simple but abundant. Along with her two younger sisters, Brenda delighted in their modest Prospect home which was transformed into their own little world by her mother, a dressmaker and wonderful baker, and her father, a blacksmith, mechanic and general handyman. Their backyard featured a playhouse, boat-shaped swing and fishpond, and was a place where they could let their imaginations run wild. However, with three girls in one house sharing one bedroom, the situation didn’t always result in a peaceful outcome. With several fruit trees in their backyard, as well as a vegetable patch and chickens, they were well known for making good use of everything they had. Her mother’s family owned a butcher’s shop so Brenda often dined on whatever meat was left over from trading. Brenda’s mother’s family owned a car and would regularly take them on Sunday drives to the beach, hills or to Virginia to their Uncle Fred’s farm. “That was a real treat for a city child,” Brenda says of visiting the farm. Attending Nailsworth School for her primary education, Brenda recalls having to cross Main North Road. The traffic was much lighter than it is today, but they had to be wary of trams, vans and wagons pulled by draught horses. Swimming was a favourite pastime and Brenda would spend many hours at the Adelaide City Baths, sometimes walking the five miles home when she missed the last tram home. Her parents purchased land at Christies Beach and her father built a small holiday home there. “We had many happy times there,” Brenda says.

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Brenda wasn’t planning on further education, but achieved high marks in her Qualifying Exam and her parents were persuaded by her teacher to send her to Adelaide Technical High School. Brenda relished the opportunity to study the intensive course of subjects including English, shorthand, typing, bookkeeping, history and maths. “I enjoyed every minute of my two years there,” Brenda says. After passing her subjects, Brenda’s parents sent her for a further six months of study at Chartres Business College. The College promised to find employment for its graduates and Brenda spent a short time with an agent dealing in household items before being taken on by T & G Insurance in 1936. The pay was reasonable but the work was boring and overseen by a small but fearsome manageress. Brenda was reprimanded after making an error and threatened with dismissal should it happen again. When it did, Brenda didn’t wait around to be fired. She sought a new position with two brothers who procured items from interstate for various stores. Brenda spent much of her spare time with her three friends Shirley, Lillias and Margaret. In 1941, they decided to venture out to sea on the steamship Moonta. The ship offered passengers a six day cruise across the Spencer and St Vincent Gulfs for six pounds. Aboard the ship, the girls met up with four other young people including Brenda’s future husband Harry May. It didn’t appear to be love at first sight. Harry never showed any interest until the final night. “We were both out on deck and a few kisses were exchanged,” Brenda says. As they were parting the next day, no further plans were made.

Unable to get Harry out of her mind, Brenda sought his address and sent him a photo of the trip. Brenda and Harry began corresponding regularly. By this time, Harry had been sent to Darwin where he experienced the devastating World War II air raids. Afterwards he was reassigned to a remote radio station 100 miles from Darwin. Over a year later, Brenda received a call from Harry’s sister to say he was on leave from the Air Force, but had been admitted to hospital suffering a tropical ulcer. He was wondering if Brenda would visit him. “Oh yes, that spark was definitely still there,” Brenda says, recalling the visit. Harry proposed to Brenda in August 1943 and they were married on 16th October the same year. Unfortunately the young lovers weren’t left to enjoy a normal beginning to their happy marriage. Harry was soon called away to Townsville, leaving Brenda behind where he knew she would be safe. They saw each other briefly over the next two years, Harry making the trip home when he had leave, but usually spending most of this time in transit. He was finally discharged and returned home in October 1945. Housing was scarce but Brenda and Harry were able to rent three rooms on Cross Road. The landlady was adamant that the lodgings were not open to children, so when Brenda became pregnant they had to quickly find alternative accommodation. In 1946, they rented two rooms from a single mother but were forced to move again when the lady’s husband returned. Taking refuge with their young son Greg in a flat offered by Harry’s father, they were barely settled when they received news from the Housing Trust that a house was ready for them in Prospect Estate. “Finally, we had a house of our own,” Brenda says. Roland came along in 1950, but the joy of a new baby was quickly marred by a polio epidemic.

After a horrid day with two unsettled children, Brenda spent most of the night walking the floor trying to get Roland to sleep. She was horrified when she noticed the next morning that he couldn’t move his left leg. The doctor quickly confirmed that Roland had polio and, at only ten months of age, he was sent to the Northfield Infectious Diseases Hospital. “Each morning I would walk down to the public phone to ring the hospital,” Brenda says. “We were not allowed to visit.” When Roland was transferred to the Children’s Hospital, Brenda was finally able to visit him. The first time was a terrifying experience as they struggled to find Roland. He remained there for six months, during which time his brother Greg was also confined to bed rest. The years following were spent with physiotherapists and specialists, Roland at first confined to a frame and then able to walk with a caliper. “That was a pretty black time in our lives,” Brenda says. “But we got through it.” In 1959, they were able to purchase their own home and moved across the road from Gepps Cross Primary School, making it easy for Roland to attend school. With the boys at school, Brenda returned to office work, followed by seven years of volunteering for Meals on Wheels. The 1960s brought sad farewells, with Brenda’s father passing away in 1962 and her mother succumbing to breast cancer in 1966. Also in 1966, Brenda’s husband finally fulfilled a lifelong dream of building a boat. Despite enduring many lonely evenings during its construction, Brenda says the boat was worth the wait. “We had for many years a comfortable refuge away from the stress of city living,” she says. In the mid 1970s, Brenda and Harry decided to move to Williamstown. They had a transportable home constructed and in 1977 it was delivered with great difficulty along the narrow country road to their block. While enjoying their rural lifestyle, both Brenda and Harry suffered from serious health issues. Continued next page

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Harry had surgery to insert an artificial aorta while Brenda started to notice some initial signs of breast cancer. With the presence of cancer quickly confirmed, Brenda had surgery in 1985 and took six weeks to recover. Afterwards, Harry suggested they go on a cruise and Brenda’s specialist agreed it would be a good idea. Their 14 day cruise around the North Island of New Zealand aboard the Mikhail Lermontov went “splendidly” at first. Then on 16th February 1986 Harry and Brenda left their cabin to enjoy an evening of wine tasting and Russian dancing. “We had just sat down when there was this most horrendous ripping sound,” Brenda recalls. “Crockery went everywhere.” Pandemonium erupted. Brenda asked Harry to fetch some of their belongings. He returned severely shaken, unable to reach their cabin. The ship was sinking! They were herded upward towards lifeboats but each vessel they came to was already full. A crewmember was able to get Brenda onto a lifeboat close by. They would not take Harry initially, but later on Brenda spotted him at the back of the lifeboat. They were rescued by a gas tanker and Brenda was reunited with Harry once aboard. They returned to Australia shortly after by plane. In 1987, Brenda joined a small group of local women in forming the Williamstown Women Writers (later named the Barossa Word Weavers). Harry’s health began to decline in the early 1990s and he was admitted to hospital several times. Making it to their 50th wedding anniversary in 1993, Brenda and Harry enjoyed a large celebration with family. Health problems continued to plague the pair, with Brenda enduring further surgery for suspected cancer and Harry being admitted to hospital again in October 1995. Brenda kissed him goodbye the night he was taken away by the ambulance. This was to be the last time she would speak to him. Sadly, he lost consciousness overnight and passed away on 20th October 1995. After Harry’s death, Brenda decided to act on her desire to record her life story for her family. In 2000, she published her memoirs, entitling them “Sunshine and Shadows”. Deciding to return to city living in 2002, Brenda moved to ECH’s Little Adelaide Village and has enjoyed many social times with the small, friendly community. She is now 92 and legally blind, but Brenda says that she is able to continue living independently with the support of her family and ECH. She loves to catch up with her family, which now includes four grandchildren and eight greatgrandchildren.

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Lost in the maze of aged care services?

askECH recognises that ageing presents older people and carers with new and varying challenges. Confusion over where to start or who to turn to for assistance is not unusual. If you would like assistance with navigating the aged care system, contact askECH for personalised support. Information and referrals can be provided on every issue concerning older people and their carers, including but not limited to: • accessing home care and domestic assistance • finding reliable financial advice • moving to residential care • improving health and fitness • understanding Advance Directives • maintaining social links • accessing concessions An initial 45 minute discussion of your requirements, via a home visit or by telephone, as well as a personalised action plan, is provided at no cost. Further support can be provided for a fee.

Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.00pm T. 1300 275 324 (1300 askECH) E. askech@ech.asn.au

Together we can create real choices

The inclusion of this beautiful rotunda, enjoyed by residents at our Walkerville Residential Care Centre, was made possible by a donation from the Walkerville Auxiliary. They have also provided for many other extra items to increase comfort and offer entertainment, including funding social outings in the bus.

Enrich the lives of older people through financial support Making a donation or leaving a bequest to ECH is just one way you can assist and support our ongoing work as a not-for-profit, charitable association in the area of aged care. We have been providing services for more than 45 years, thanks in part to the assistance and generosity of many people during this time. We do not telemarket or doorknock but we do rely greatly on the public’s generosity.   Policy changes in the 1990s led to funding from Australian Government sources being limited to contributions to direct care for residents and clients. We need your support more than ever to carry on upgrading and building the best facilities possible to continue to improve on our outstanding residential and community care services. Your donation or bequest to ECH will make a lasting contribution to the lives of residents in residential care or other services we provide, now and into the future.

If you wish to confidentially discuss making a bequest to ECH or would like some more information, please write to Mr Rob Hankins, ECH Chief Executive, at 174 Greenhill Road, Parkside SA 5063, or call 08 8407 5151 to arrange a meeting to discuss your wishes. Please consider making a bequest to help us continue our valuable work. Or if you wish, you can help us today with a tax-deductable donation. Donations can be made online through www.givenow.com.au/ech, by mailing a cheque or money order, or by visiting one of our sites.

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Fit and feisty for life

After his marriage broke up, Graham Ward was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and was prescribed several medications. As a side effect of the medication, Graham began gaining weight and reached 134 kilograms. On a visit to his doctor, Graham enquired about regaining his health and was referred to ECH’s Greenacres Therapy Service. Graham was assessed by a physiotherapist and began attending the Fit & Feisty conditioning class twice a week at the Greenacres Therapy Service gym. Fit & Feisty involves using a combination of exercise machines for aerobic work and weights for strengthening muscles. Qualified instructors are on hand to provide individual support. “It’s like having a personal trainer,” Graham says. Initially he found it to be tough work, but Graham persisted with his program and gradually exercising became easier. Using his passion for cooking, Graham also began making healthier meals for himself.

B e fo re

Twelve months on, Graham has lost an amazing 21 kilograms and feels fantastic. In addition to losing weight, Graham has also noticed his flexibility has improved. “Before I started the exercise program I used to get back aches and stiff muscles,” Graham says. “With exercise, I don’t have any problems in those areas anymore.” Elena Russo, one of the instructors, reports that Graham’s improvement has been phenomenal.

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Graham doesn’t like to miss out on a session and hopes to keep coming for as long as he can. “If I miss it for a couple of weeks I feel really deprived,” he says. Enjoying the friendly and supportive environment, and recognising the importance of an active lifestyle, Graham highly recommends joining the fitness classes at Greenacres Therapy Service. “Retirement is a time to do something for yourself and this is something you can do!” Elena recommends the class for anyone over 60. She says that exercise is increasingly important as you age. “Exercise is maintenance for your body,” Elena says. “Everyone that comes and makes that commitment improves.” Classes are small in size, affordable in price and a varied workout is provided. While taking charge of his health, Graham has since remarried and will be celebrating his 70th birthday on St Patrick’s Day with his family. It will be an extra special day because he and his wife Robyn will also be renewing their vows.

Top ratings for our Community Services In 2012, ECH’s Community Programs regions, along with our Home and Community Care (HACC) and National Respite for Carers funded programs, underwent an intensive quality review process as required by funding agreements. Each ECH region and program that was reviewed achieved the highest rating (Level 1) when assessed against the Community Care Common Standards. The standards include 18 expected outcomes under three main areas including effective management, appropriate access and service delivery, and service user rights and responsibilities.

Dorothy Brunka:

employee, resident and client When Dorothy Brunka walked into Western Therapy Service for her first appointment, she was surprised and delighted to learn that it was run by ECH, realising that once again she had come back to the organisation she has had a long affiliation with. In 1971, when ECH was quite new, Dorothy worked in the finance department as a bookkeeper. “Back when everything was done by hand,” Dorothy says. “No computers were around then!” She remembers being cramped in a tiny office on the ground floor of ECH’s former Corporate Office location and having to use an accounting machine. “They were very loud and interesting machines,” Dorothy says. “Quite different from computers.” With a background in bookkeeping, typing and shorthand, Dorothy’s initial experience with these machines was at her first job in Australia after she arrived from Germany in 1949. Dorothy only spent a short time as an employee, but she returned to ECH in 1980 – this time as a potential resident. Calling into the office to register her interest in moving to one of our independent living villages, Dorothy was lucky to be taken straight out to see one of the available units at Rundle Court in Fullarton. Although she hadn’t planned on moving so quickly, she loved the unit so much that she decided to take it and was there for 25 years. In 2005, Dorothy moved out to a village operated by another aged care organisation to be closer to the hydrotherapy service she was receiving regularly back then. In late 2012, Dorothy began to experience some difficulty with food intolerances and was referred to the dietitian at Western Therapy Service, once again returning to ECH but this time as a client!

ECH Therapy Services If you are over 60 years of age and looking to maintain or improve your health and wellbeing, ECH Therapy Services can provide a tailored program to help you achieve your goals. A range of exercise and education classes are offered to support older people in improving balance, strength and overall fitness, as well as in managing chronic health conditions. Allied health professionals, including but not limited to occupational therapists, physiotherapists, podiatrists and dietitians, are also available for individual consultations. Ask your doctor about referring you to your closest ECH Therapy Service or contact the site directly on the relevant number below. Our friendly staff will be happy to take your call and get you started on your journey to optimal health.

Greenacres 1/19-21 Fosters Road Ph: 8369 3393

Henley Beach 168a Cudmore Terrace Ph: 8356 3169

Morphett Vale 126 Pimpala Road Ph: 8322 5700

Somerton Park Quality reviews include initial self-assessments, onsite visits by reviewers, reports and development of improvement plans. Reviewers found it difficult to suggest areas for improvement beyond those which ECH had already identified within the self-assessment stage. Key positive points highlighted by reviewers of ECH’s services included:

Grainger Road Ph: 8375 1525

• consistency across regions and programs

Victor Harbor

• alignment of corporate practices and processes, and those at operational level

Tiwi (NT) 11 Creswell Street Ph: 8922 6650

33 Cornhill Road Ph: 8551 0617

• dedication of staff, confirmed by clients, in actively promoting and supporting the independence of clients • systematic and user-friendly documentation

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Retirement Living village upgrades ECHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s retirement living village upgrade program is a long-term initiative to redevelop and refurbish our villages. For residents there are many significant benefits: 1

Improved amenities New, more attractive gardens and common infrastructure such as small garden rotundas, seating areas, garden sheds, clotheslines, screens and spaces specific to individual units.

Safety

Accessibility

Independence and wellbeing

Value protection

Affordability and sustainability

Improved visibility throughout the site for passive surveillance by reducing dark and unused areas and blind corners.

Improved accessibility with new pathways, minimisation of trip hazards (such as uneven surfaces), ramping and extra car parks to support resident mobility throughout the site.

Wider pathways meandering through village gardens and common areas to accommodate pleasant walking for exercise and independence.

Protection of resident premiums/loans by ensuring villages are marketable and therefore maintaining high occupancy for improved resident safety and community atmosphere.

Attractive, water-wise and heat tolerant landscaping with fully automated irrigation to keep maintenance fees affordable. Fully planned Comprehensively planned site upgrades involving gardens, street furniture, roadways, paths and common services avoid the ad hoc and inconsistent interruptions for residents of piecemeal site improvements.

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Like with any renovation, there is a level of inconvenience when a village is upgraded and we ask you for patience and understanding when works are undertaken in your village. Communication process Before each village is upgraded ECH facilitates a process of consultation with residents. Ideally any individual concerns that residents may have can be addressed through consultation meetings. The aim is to strike a balance between any individual requirements, the requirements of neighbours and the village as a whole.

Celebrating fifty years On a rainy night in 1962, Ken and Frances Munro were unable to make a subtle getaway. It was 30th November and the pair had just been married at East Taieri Presbyterian Church, New Zealand. “We rented a little car and Ken’s mates from work tied everything possible to the back,” Frances recalls. “It was one noisy vehicle!” Frances met Ken in 1959 when she moved from her country hometown to Mosgiel, 12 kilometres from Dunedin in New Zealand. There she became friends with Ken’s sister and things went off from there. After they were married, they honeymooned for seven days in Christchurch and settled around the Dunedin area for almost 15 years, where they started to raise their three children. Ken worked as a slaughter man at the abattoir for 40 years, learning early from his father who was a butcher. Both Ken and Frances are very sports-minded. Ken spent many years playing cricket, while Frances cheered him on, and they both represented their regions in golf and bowls competitions. When Ken was 48, he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. He altered his life to better manage his condition, opting to take up gardening work, but has had a healthier life than first expected. There have even been two medical journal articles written about him! Frances and Ken are a great team, relying on and supporting each other throughout their marriage. Frances has suffered from ill health herself and she has been grateful for Ken’s support during these times. Their family is very close and recently rallied around Ken last year when he became very ill with pneumonia.

In 2000, Frances won a trip to England to visit the set of Coronation Street. It took her a while to be convinced that the call wasn’t a joke. “I thought he was having me on,” she says. “I’d never been outside of New Zealand!” It was quite a feat for a first overseas trip, taking 37 hours to reach their destination. The prize was for four days in Manchester, so they extended their trip spending seven days in London, seven days touring Europe and stopping over in Los Angeles for two days on the way home. “It was a fantastic holiday,” Frances says. “I never imagined I’d see Paris!” It wasn’t long after this that they started making regular trips to Adelaide when their daughter moved over here to live. Always enjoying their time in Adelaide, they finally decided to make the big move in 2010, and came to live at ECH’s Lewis Court in Clarence Gardens. They have never regretted the move and feel very lucky in their new home. “We’ll always be Kiwis at heart,” Frances says. “But Australia is our home.” Recently celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary, Ken and Frances say that a strong marriage involves give and take, communication, forgiveness and tolerance. It has been very much a team effort for them, with many life skills learnt along the way. They celebrated their anniversary with a Friday afternoon tea with their Lewis Court neighbours and with family events on the Saturday and Sunday. Their clan now includes seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren (with one on the way).

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Long-serving employees

30 years+

Gayle Tomkins Spending time with older people and listening to countless stories has provided Gayle Tomkins with some of the fondest memories of her career as an enrolled nurse. “I have always enjoyed spending time with older people,” Gayle says. “Working night shift you often find people awake who lay there thinking about their lives. Making them cups of tea and listening to them is rewarding.” Gayle has spent most of her career, which spans more than 30 years, with Masonic Homes and came to be employed by ECH after its acquisition of Somerton Residential Care Centre where she has been based for the past 16 years at the hostel. In her role Gayle enjoys the time she spends listening and sharing in the lives and memories of residents. She affectionately recalls a group of residents who would often arrange a meeting in the kitchenette during the early hours of the morning to chat and share stories over cups of tea. “It was lovely to hear them joking and laughing,” Gayle says.

Julie Bielby Julie Bielby began her career with ECH over 31 years ago when she was first employed as a housekeeper for Walkerville Residential Care Centre. Over the years she has enjoyed other roles including providing support in the kitchen and dining rooms, and personal caring duties for a short period of time. Now a cleaner, Julie enjoys contact with residents on a daily basis and takes pleasure in learning about their life achievements. “Each resident has a different story to tell,” Julie says. “It is amazing what some of these residents have achieved in their lifetime.” Asked about her recollection of memorable moments at ECH over the past 31 years, Julie responds that there are too many to list. Julie has enjoyed working for ECH and credits her long-term commitment to the work environment. “ECH has been an enjoyable place to work,” Julie says. “In general it is the residents who keep the atmosphere alive, and the staff that work with them.” Previously a netball player, Julie is now a spectator and in her spare time enjoys going to the local football games (as a devoted Crows supporter), caravanning and overseas travel. She also enjoys spending time with her family.

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Marisa Sanchez Marisa is originally from Spain and, prior to working for ECH, she was a qualified hairdresser back in her hometown. In 1972, at 23 years of age, Marisa moved to Australia with her husband so he could pursue an engineering career. After having two daughters, Marisa and her family built a new home in Bellevue Heights in 1980. On one of Marisa’s regular walks around the neighbourhood she noticed a large building under construction just two blocks from her house. Curiosity got the better of Marisa and she went to enquire about the building. After learning it was going to be a new residential care centre, Marisa considered applying for a position in the centre’s laundry and cleaning team.

If you share our values, we’ve got your job! We are dedicated to our values of empathy, integrity and respect. They influence everything that we do in our daily commitment to our purpose of providing quality affordable homes and support to enrich the lives of older people. If you share these values, we would love to have you on our team. Visit www.ech.asn.au/careers-at-ech for more information.

Marisa’s initial plan was to work there for a couple of years while her children were young. Bellevue Residential Care Centre was in a perfect location as Marisa didn’t have a driver’s licence at the time and she could walk to work. She applied and was offered the position she had initially desired. Thirty-two years later, Marisa is still working for ECH, now at Holly Residential Care Centre, and loves her job as much as she did the first day she started. “I love to work for ECH,” Marisa says. “ECH’s values are extremely important to me.” Marisa also loves the interaction and relationships she has built over the years with her colleagues and the residents. In her spare time, Marisa enjoys gardening, watching movies and listening to classical music, and also loves teaching her granddaughter to speak Spanish.

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Developing services in response to community need ECH is committed to providing services that are tailored to the needs and wants of older people living in Australia today. To ensure this, we are actively involved in independent research and service innovations that investigate and respond to consumer need. Some of the research projects we are currently involved in include:

Studies conducted in conjunction with external groups Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage research The ARC Linkage project is funded to investigate the impact of support programs addressing social isolation. It aims to clarify which strategies are the most effective in addressing social isolation in older people. Various activities are being included in the study and their effect on clients and residents is being measured. This three year study began more than 12 months ago and is due for completion in 2014. The project is being lead by researchers from the University of Adelaide with the involvement of researchers from Curtin University, the University of Melbourne, Queensland University of Technology and Kings College in London. ECH is a project partner along with Resthaven, Anglicare SA, Benetas (Victoria), Illawarra Retirement Trust (NSW), COTA Queensland and Silver Chain (WA). Each partner organisation will assist the researchers by approaching existing clients from their different programs to participate in the research. “Social isolation and loneliness are major risk factors for ill health, hospitalisation and placement into residential care for older people,” Eleanor Kennett-Smith, ECH Project Manager, Research and Evaluation, says. “This research will help us to support older people who are socially isolated and lonely because it will assist us to incorporate effective strategies into our own services.”

Independent Retirement Living study The University of Adelaide has recently begun a longitudinal study to measure the impact of living in purpose-built retirement accommodation. Funded by ECH, the study aims to track new residents in ECH independent retirement units over the next seven years to 2019. “We know from the internal work that we have done over the last ten years that our Independent Retirement Living residents who move into residential care centres are, on average, two to two and a half years older than those people who move into care centres directly from their own homes within the broader community,” says Eleanor Kennett-Smith. She says it appears that there is something about living in an ECH retirement unit (and possibly any independent retirement unit, but we only have information about people moving from ECH units) that helps people to stay independent longer. We have just started to send out surveys to new residents that have moved into refurbished units. A number of our residents will have already received one of these surveys and would have sent them directly to the University of Adelaide. The information collected will be independently analysed by the University’s researchers and compared with surveys of people of the same age living in the family home within the community. The findings will then be provided to ECH without individual respondents being identified.

Lewis Akhurst with Northern Living Well Project Officer Ashling O’Boyle at Salisbury Stitches. Lewis Akhurst and his wife enjoyed doing cross-stitch together. After his wife passed away he became lonely. Through ECH’s Northern Living Well program, Project Officer Ashling O’Boyle was able to connect Lewis with the Salisbury Stitches group where he enjoys great camaraderie. The effects of programs which aim to reduce social isolation are being studied in the ARC Linkage research project.

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Studies conducted within ECH Quality residential care study

Day program evaluation

The acquisition of four residential care centres from Masonic Homes in the middle of 2012 provides us with a good opportunity to measure the effect of our Lifestyle Model of Care. Through this model, which has been introduced to all ECH care centres over the last few years, service delivery is flexible so that residents can live their life as close as possible to how they did at home in the community. We have interviewed residents and sent out surveys to carers and family members. Results from new residents and their families are being compared to the results from long-term ECH residents, giving us good information for continuous service improvement activities and staff training.

A survey of day program participants is also being conducted and includes face-to-face interviews with clients and both mailed surveys and focus group discussions with their carers and family members. The study is looking at the impact of day programs on the quality of life of participants. This project will provide us with important evidence of the value of these services to clients and carers as well as providing us with information about how we can further improve our services to better support day program participants and their family carers.

ECHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s independent living unit residents Colin and Helen Woods, and Judy Williams.

A University of Adelaide study will measure the effect of living in an independent retirement unit compared with living in a home within the broader community.

Your views are important to us A major part of our internal and external research relies on feedback and survey responses from users of our services. Regardless of whether you feel positively or negatively about the services you access, your comments and survey responses are extremely valuable to us and also to the aged care sector at large.

Marten Residential Care Centre resident Ivan Lohmeyer enjoys working in the centreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garden. An ECH funded study is looking at the benefits of our Lifestyle Model of Care and areas for improvement in service delivery in our care centres.

Your feedback ultimately directs us in terms of how we expand and improve our services, and also assists us in identifying staff training needs. Our continued involvement in external research and internal evaluations is paramount and has direct benefits for current and future users of our services.

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Be a part of the ECHo! distribution network Getting ECHo! (and Profile) out to residents in our independent living units involves the support of a large network of people. Volunteers drive to most metropolitan sites (and to Victor Harbor) to deliver packs of magazines to the doors of residents who have volunteered to distribute them to their neighbours. We are very grateful for the assistance provided by our distribution network. Onsite vacancies If you live at one of the villages listed below and would be happy to distribute our magazines to your neighbours four times a year, we would love to have you on the team. Please call the ECH Corporate Office on 8407 5151 and ask for either Sarah Tomlinson or Danielle Moore. • • • •

Almond Grove, Morphett Vale Blodwin Court, Marryatville David Court, Underdale Greenleigh Court, Glenelg East

• Hill Court, Victor Harbor • Hillside Garden Apartments, Heathfield • Vine Court, Prospect

Volunteer driver required One of our volunteer drivers recently retired from their role as deliverer to ECH’s Independent Retirement villages in West Beach, Glenelg, Somerton Park and Hove. If you have a day to spare once every three months and could assist us with delivering packs of magazines to these sites, please call the ECH Corporate Office on 8407 5151 and ask for either Sarah Tomlinson or Danielle Moore.

Living, laughing and playing Onsite distributor profile: Lois Murphy of Marchant Court Lois Murphy has always enjoyed entertaining people and making them laugh. “Life’s meant for fun,” she says. Lois would often be involved in comedy sketches with her husband, who was a singer with the Metropolitan Male Choir, and the pair could often be found entertaining people wherever they went. “I am a bit of an actress,” Lois says. “I am game to do anything for a joke!” While she was living in Port Pirie, Lois was working at the town’s hospital in the children’s ward and was studying a childcare course with her colleagues. The sister in charge wrote a book called ‘Pip the Penguin’ for one of their assignments and decided to bring the character to life for the hospital. Lois was only too happy to take up the role and ‘Pip the Penguin’ was born. In a thick and furry suit made of bedspread material, the ever playful Lois set out to entertain the children and became a bit of a local feature. “It was a great time in my life,” Lois says.

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“Good fun, but hot too!” They also used Pip to educate children about going to hospital to alleviate any fears they may have had. As people would come from other towns for treatment at the hospital in Port Pirie, Lois enjoyed a tour of several towns north of her home as Pip. During her visit to one of the smaller towns she remembers walking down the main street making penguin noises and attracting a few laughs. “I like being silly,’ Lois says. Moving into ECH’s Marchant Court in Athelstone in 2001, Lois has kept up her love of life and laughter. “Life’s meant for fun!”

Lois as ‘P

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Thirty-five years of volunteering As a child, Meredith Cooper worked with her family at a kiosk formerly located behind ECH’s Somerton Residential Care Centre. When she was 15 years old, Meredith decided, along with her mother and father, to begin volunteering at the care centre.

Meredith Cooper

35 years

Thirty-five years later, Meredith is still volunteering and has truly become a part of the family at Somerton Residential Care Centre. Meredith gives an amazing 30 hours of her time per week to support residents and staff. “I have worked with Meredith for the past two years and she is the most selfless person I have met,” Kelly-Anne, who works in administration at the centre, says. “She always gives 100 percent to residents and anyone she comes in contact with.” Meredith loves the interaction with staff and residents. Some of the activities she is involved in include bus outings, assisting residents with craft and bingo, helping administration staff with delivering mail, emptying the resident mail box and much more. Meredith finds volunteering extremely rewarding and encourages anyone thinking about volunteering to get involved and find out how enjoyable it can be.

ECH thanks Meredith for her ongoing support to Somerton Residential Care Centre. Volunteers provide countless hours of support to our organisation which allows us to offer extra activities, especially for residents in our care centres and for those attending our day programs.

How to get involved! You can approach the Lifestyle Coordinator at any of ECH’s residential care centres about becoming a volunteer or you can contact the Corporate Office on 8407 5151. You can also find information about volunteering on our website www.ech.asn.au.

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Heart attacks: watch out for warning signs According to the Heart Foundation, a heart attack occurs every ten minutes in Australia, with 50 per cent of deaths occurring prior to the person reaching hospital and 25 per cent of people dying within one hour of their first warning sign. As you can see from these statistics, heart attacks are a serious health issue requiring immediate attention. The Heart Foundation states that symptoms will vary from person to person, not necessarily be sudden or severe, and could include: • pain, pressure, heaviness or tightness in your chest*, shoulder(s), arm(s), jaw, neck and/or back • feeling nauseous, dizzy, short of breath or experiencing a cold sweat • one symptom or a combination of symptoms, usually lasting for ten minutes or more *Chest pain is generally associated with heart attacks but some people will not have this symptom. If you are experiencing symptoms, call 000! For more information about heart attacks and risk factors, visit www.heartfoundation.org.au or call the Heart Foundation Health Information Service on 1300 362 787.

Learning lessons about life When high school student Dominique Birbeck was given the opportunity to complete a research project of her choice, the Woodcroft College student chose to research dementia and its effect on older people and their carers. As part of her research, Dominique volunteered at ECH’s Southern Day Program where she assisted staff and spent time with clients during games and activities. “I decided that volunteering at Southern Day Program would give me the chance to engage with older people in the local community and give me an understanding of some of the issues facing them,” Dominique says. During her time at the day program, Dominique was able to witness first-hand the effects of dementia on daily life, and particularly noticed the impact the condition has on communication.

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Trevor’s triumph after tackling heart surgery Trevor Cassidy knew something was wrong. He had been experiencing shortness of breath as well as chest and shoulder pain. He didn’t hesitate to seek help and was soon at Flinders Medical Centre where he underwent triple bypass surgery. He had severe blockages in his heart and was moments away from a heart attack. This was the beginning of July 2012. With the surgery a success, Trevor started building up his strength again and, despite the set back of an infection which required further hospitalisation and treatment, he was back playing table tennis again two months later. By mid-October he was even competing at the Australian Masters Games in Alice Springs and brought home three gold medals. “People can’t believe I recovered so quickly,” Trevor says. Trevor realises the importance of acting quickly and encourages others to be aware of the symptoms and to seek help immediately. Trevor and Heather Cassidy from ECH’s Leslie Court in Hove

“People with dementia often lose the ability to communicate effectively and can get frustrated when they struggle to connect with their loved ones,” Dominique reports in her research findings. One of Dominique’s goals during her visits was to involve every client in the compilation of a photo book illustrating some of the things that were special to them. With the assistance of staff, Dominique and the clients took photos and images of animals, nature, music, the ‘old times’, and games. Dominique then assembled the photos and created a coloured photo book entitled “The Things We Love”. Reflecting on her learning experience Dominique reports that she also discovered that the benefits of volunteering in the community are endless. “I don’t think I could have found a personal project more interesting and fulfilling,” she says.

Notices

Are you ready for the digital age of television? On 2nd April 2013 the analog television signal will be switched off in metropolitan South Australia. There are currently 16 digital television channels. Each broadcaster provides multiple channels in both standard and high definition formats. To receive all the free-to-air channels you will need to convert to high definition digital television equipment. If you do not have a digital television you can still use your analog television by connecting it to a high definition set top box or a high definition television recorder. Some pay television providers offer access to digital free-to-air channels. These can be accessed by an analog television because the signal comes from a satellite.

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: Publications Coordinator ECH Inc Reply Paid 83158 Parkside SA 5063 Telephone: 8407 5160 Email: publications@ech.asn.au

Want to be on the ECH mailing list? Profile 2010/11 APRIL 2012

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If you would like to be added to the ECH mailing list please contact: Publications Coordinator ECH Inc Reply Paid 83158 Parkside SA 5063 Telephone: 8407 5160 Email: publications@ech.asn.au

For further information visit www.digitalready.gov.au or call the Digital Ready Information Line on 1800 201 013.

Clarence Gardens Art Class

Spaces available!

For several years now, Grainger Court resident Joan Read has been volunteering her time sharing her tricks and tips for drawing and painting with other ECH residents. Held in the communal room at Clarence Gardens Estate on Mondays (excluding school holidays) from 1.30pm to 3pm, classes are casual and encouraging in a friendly and social environment. If you are an ECH independent living unit resident and would be interested in joining, please contact Joan on 8338 0704.

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Taking home the prize for talent

Once again, residents of our residential care centres as well as clients attending our day programs took out several prizes at the Gawler Show for their amazing works of art and craft. Ranging from delicate patchwork and sewing to colourful paintings and elaborate model constructions, the talents of our clients and residents were showcased to the public and we are delighted to have their achievements recognised. A special congratulations also goes out to a group of clients attending our Sundowner Plus program. They received a third prize in the Royal Adelaide Show for an intricate mosaic sign they created together.

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Santa cat at Holly Residential Care Centre

Christmas cheer at Mostyn Court

Ellen Court celebrates Christmas

Social Pages Tiwi community clients celebrate Christmas On 4th December 2012, Community Services staff at Tiwi hosted a successful Christmas party for therapy and community care clients. The party commenced at 10.30am and was well attended with 100 guests, many dressed in their bright Christmas outfits and “bling”. Clients came from all over the Darwin and Palmerston area. Packaged care clients were picked up by our mini-bus, which was decked out with reindeer antlers and a bright red nose! Our chauffeur was Jacquie, one of our Registered Nurses, ably assisted by Coordinator Clare. The day started with nibbles and drinks, then thirty-two lucky door prizes were drawn. Winners chose from a range of prizes including wines, talking cookie jars, meal vouchers, chocolates and toiletries. This was followed by a very energetic performance by the Rince na h’Eireann Darwin Irish Dance Association. The dancers, who kindly volunteered their time for this performance, ranged in age from 5-20 years.

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A buffet lunch of leg ham, chicken and a variety of salads was then served, followed by plum pudding, custard and cream – yum! Then it was time for everyone to stretch the vocal cords and sing a few Christmas carols, prompted by the carol book prepared by Kylie our Senior Administration Officer. Just as everyone was getting into singing “Jingle Bells”, who should appear but Santa (maintenance man Peter), accompanied by his very cute elf (Physiotherapist Steph). Santa had a great time handing out presents to all. Everyone must have been very good this year, because everyone received a gift! Santa and his elf also visited residents at Tiwi Residential Care Centre. At 2.30pm the party, sadly, was over. Guests reluctantly left, but as they did, it was obvious that they had had a good time, many stopping to thank the staff for such a wonderful day.

tmas Party

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This party could not have been so successful without the effort of our wonderful staff. Apart from those already mentioned, special thanks go to the following people: • Senior Coordinator Jackie our MC • HSWs Jerry, Karen, Kirsty, Amy and NRCP Katrina who assisted with serving food and drinks • Coordinator Purvish who assisted Jacquie to take clients home in the reindeer bus • Coordinator Vanessa who arranged for the Irish dancers to attend • Therapy staff Judy, Lars and Julia who set up, cleaned up and assisted with serving food and drinks • all the local businesses which supported the event by donating goods, gift certificates and food • an extra special big thank you to Kylie, our Senior Administration Officer, who did a lot of “behind the scenes” work in preparation for the day as well as serving food and drinks at the party by Nelly Gould Client Services Manager (Darwin)

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Luncheon for residents Every year ECH celebrates with residents of our independent living units who have lived with ECH for 20 or more years. A total of 92 residents were invited to attend, with 60 of those residents accepting the invitation to a luncheon at Adelaide Pavilion in October. Congratulations to resident Edith Sutton who reached her 38th year in 2012.

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Clarence Gardens Estate celebrates Australia Day

Ernest Court residents tour the countryside Stopping first at Cudlee Creek where they enjoyed Devonshire tea, they travelled on to the Whispering Wall which a few of them hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seen for many years. Next stop was Tanunda for lunch at the local hotel followed by a walk through the town before a pleasant journey home in the bus.

Kath Brown turns 103! Kath was born in 1910 and grew up with five other siblings in St Kilda, Victoria. When Kath was two years old, her family moved to Murray Bridge where her father helped his brothers run their milk factory. Kath worked in the family business as a milk tester and met her husband through the milk industry. On Sunday 20th January 2013 Kath celebrated her 103rd birthday with family and friends at Holly Residential Care Centre. Kath has always kept active in her life, playing basketball right into her adulthood. Kath also loved to play the piano, and has two children and two grandchildren.

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Torrens Court brings in the New Year Once again Kay and Tony (U4) and Carole and Barry (U5) from Torrens Court organised a New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve party for residents and their friends. The party was attended by a similar amount of people as the previous year and everyone enjoyed the evening. They were delighted to see some new faces at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party which gave the newcomers the opportunity to get to know people who they otherwise would not have met. The apricot tree was decorated to look like a Christmas tree, umbrellas were erected, coloured lights made the area look festive, and barbeques were supplied and made good use of. Some of the residents managed to stay up to see in the New Year with party poppers and whistles to finish the party.

Social Pages Somerton awards for appreciation Somerton Residential Care Centre had a presentation ceremony where they awarded certificates of appreciation to residents who have provided exceptional services in volunteer work for an extended period of time, thereby making a real contribution to the wellbeing of the entire Somerton Residential Care Centre community.

Residential Site Manager Shauna Gill presenting a certificate to resident Pat Kelton who assists with regular exercises.

Residential Site Manager Shauna Gill presenting a certificate to Ken Chadbourne who chairs resident and relatives meetings and advocates for residents.

Luncheon with Port Adelaide Football Club

Ron Treagust, meeting his heroes with Lifestyle Co-coordinator Susan Hakof.

Somerton Residential Care Centre residents enjoyed a bus trip to Port Adelaide Football Club where they had lunch and met players.

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ECH provides two well appointed holiday units at Ardrossan and Victor Harbor which are available to independent living unit residents.

2013 Holiday unit booking form

Please complete the form below and return it to: Corporate Office Reception ECH Inc 174 Greenhill Road Parkside SA 5063

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. • Your week commences on a Thursday with check in after 2pm and check out prior to 10am the following Thursday. • You will receive a phone call upon receipt of your booking request. •

You will also receive a confirmation letter one month prior to your holiday with all the relevant information about what you need to take with you. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to call us on 8407 5151.

ECH wishes you a happy and enjoyable holiday!

NAME ADDRESS

PHONE MOBILE

ARDROSSAN 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.

34 | ECHo! MARCH 2013 | ECH Inc

BOOKING FORM

Holiday unit bookings

ECHo! Survey 2013

Attention all readers of ECHo! We need your help!

To assist us with making ECHo! as informative and interesting as possible, please take a few minutes to fill in the survey below. Your response will be confidential and you may remain anonymous if you wish. This survey is not compulsory. If you have any queries or require extra surveys, please contact Sarah Tomlinson, Publications Coordinator, on 8407 5160 or email publications@ech.asn.au.

Your details (optional) Name ________________________________________ Age __________

Male

Female

Address ________________________________________________________________________________ Phone number ______________________ Email ______________________________________________ Please specify your relationship to ECH Resident

Client

Volunteer

Staff

Other: ___________________

Your opinion Please tell us what you think of ECHo! by ticking a rating for each part listed below

Look, layout and design very dissatisfied

dissatisfied

satisfied

very satisfied

dissatisfied

satisfied

very satisfied

satisfied

very satisfied

Content - articles very dissatisfied

Content - photos and images very dissatisfied

dissatisfied

How could we improve the content and/or the design and layout of ECHo!? _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ Please turn over

ECH Inc | ECHo! MARCH 2013 |

Which types of articles do you find enjoyable and valuable? (Please tick as many as you wish) Resident/client life stories (human interest)

information about ECH services

Anniversary/centenarian

information about government/local services

Resident/client achievements

social pages

Updates about ECH

other, please specify: ________________________

Do you think there is a good balance between stories (text) and images? Yes

No, needs more images/less text

No, needs less images/more text

Is the font clear and easy to read? Yes

Unsure

If you answered ‘no’ or ‘unsure’, please briefly explain your answer: _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ (Please note that large print and audio copies of ECHo! are available. Please contact Marketing at ECH’s Corporate Office on 8407 5151 for more information.)

Do you have any further suggestions or comments regarding ECHo!? _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________ Thank you for your time!

Please cut out and return this survey by 31st March 2013 by one of the following: 1. Mail (no stamp required) Attention: Marketing ECH Inc Reply Paid 83158 Parkside SA 5063

36 | ECHo! MARCH 2013 | ECH Inc

2. Fax ECH on 8407 5130

3. Hand in at reception at any ECH care centre, community program or therapy service. Surveys will be returned to Marketing at the Corporate Office through our internal mail system.

174 Greenhill Road 174 Greenhill Road

Parkside Parkside

5063 5063

8407 5151 1300 275 324

Independent Retirement Living Accommodation Services Independent Living Services Maintenance Services

8407 5115 8407 5111 8159 4700

Independent living unit enquiries For independent living unit residents For independent living unit residents

Community Services Community Programs Brighton Greenacres Kidman Park Ridgehaven Tiwi Totness Victor Harbor Westbourne Park

498 Brighton Road 1/1 Rellum Road 358 Findon Road Gate 2, Hazel Grove 11 Creswell Street 23 Mount Barker Road 33 Cornhill Road 433 Goodwood Road

Brighton Greenacres Kidman Park Ridgehaven Tiwi (NT) Totness Victor Harbor Westbourne Park

5048 5086 5025 5097 0810 5250 5211 5041

8172 3100 8361 5300 8159 4740 8219 8222 8922 6650 8391 4600 8551 0617 8271 2166

19 Cornhill Road 11 Laidlaw Street 1a Warooka Drive Corner Jade Crescent and Hay Street 168a Cudmore Terrace 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 3169 8342 8367

Greenacres Henley Beach Morphett Vale Somerton Park Tiwi Victor Harbor

Unit 1, 19-21 Fosters Road 168a Cudmore Terrace 126 Pimpala Road Grainger Road 11 Creswell Street 33 Cornhill Road

Greenacres Henley Beach Morphett Vale Somerton Park Tiwi (NT) Victor Harbor

5086 5022 5162 5044 0810 5211

8369 3393 8356 3169 8322 5700 8375 1525 8922 6650 8551 0617

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

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

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

Therapy Services

Residential Care