AUTUMN 2014

• Showcasing new ways of how we help people to Live Every Day• Innovative models of aged care • Engaging earlier with the community

• Funding fuels growth for Life Care at Home • People and Places

ABOUT LIFE

Community partnerships are a vital aspect of Life Care’s business.

Through its association with the Adelaide Football Club and the Sparkling Diamonds netball club, Life Care has created unique and rewarding relationships.

Life Care has now entered into a special arrangement through the Entertainment Book concept to help raise funds for the Motor Neuron Disease Association SA.

This charitable decision is based on moves by staff members at Reynella Lodge to support the Association after learning one of their colleagues was recently diagnosed with the condition.

Residential Services Manager, Raelene Madden, said: “Cathy Apostolides was a dedicated carer who was with us for 20 years. Now she needs care herself, and we are committed to supporting the Motor Neuron Disease Association to assist people in these circumstances.”

Life Care has embraced the fundraising initiative encouraging staff members and others to purchase the Entertainment Book and participate in a Motor Neuron Disease Association 4km walk to “D-Feet Motor Neuron” at the Adelaide Sailing Club, West Beach on Sunday 4 May.

The Entertainment Book is a local restaurant and activity guide with hundreds of exclusive discount offers in the hospitality, retail and tourism sectors.

The Entertainment Book sells for $65.00 and proceeds will be sent to the Motor Neuron Disease Association. To order a copy, please call Sandy Hooper on 8239 9800 or e-mail sandy.hooper@lifecare.org.au

Don’t discount this opportunity to help raise funds for the

Motor Neuron Disease Association

About Life is the official publication of the Churches of Christ Life Care Inc.

Corporate Services263 Melbourne StreetNorth Adelaide SA 5006Telephone: 08 8239 9800Facsimile: 08 8239 9850www.lifecare.org.au

Our Mission:Our purpose is to partner with people to embrace life and live every day.

Our Vision:Life Care is aninnovative provider of qualityservices to the ageing.We are recognised as a preferredoption for active ageing andan employer of choice for staff.This is achieved by anoutstanding team working in aflexible and integrated approachwith volunteers and partners.

CONTENTS

CEO’s Report

New era at Aldinga Beach Court

Life Care at Home expands

Reaping rewards of the Life Care Walk

Life Care Active on growth trajectory

People and Places

COVERMedical student Kate Johnson urges

young people to explore the memories

and experiences of their parents and

grandparents. She became intrigued by

the amazing adventures of her grandfather,

former Royal Air Force pilot Cyril Johnson,

and it has resulted in a newly launched

book called Wings of the Dawn.

See the full story inside.

Life Care is committed to broadening its range of services to bring new dimensions to the ageing experiences of its customers.

This strategic broadening of our mission into the community is to partner with people encouraging them to embrace life and Live Every Day.

Life Care’s Master Plan, endorsed by our Board of Directors in January, will shape and support our service delivery over the next decade to strategically deliver contemporary aged care living and working environments.

Our management team and relevant Board committees are working with external consultants to activate the first projects within the Master Plan.

As a vibrant and progressive not-for-profit organisation, our focus is on developments and services that demonstrate that Life Care does not just care for people – we care about them as well.

This applies across our residential services, Life Care at Home, Life Care Active, respite services and retirement living to help those people with whom we come into contact to live life to their potential.

Apart from our built form, we will continue to support a well-trained, flexible and professional workforce and volunteer base, enabling each person to fulfil his or her potential and career ambitions.

The next instalment of the Life Care Way will be conducted in the June quarter this year and will be a unique process of engagement to ensure consistent, cultural alignment with our new service model, systems and processes.

Our work health and safety practices are being reviewed to provide an even better working environment for our staff, volunteers and contractors. This is a very important and exciting process, and I particularly acknowledge the outstanding work being led by Michael Rasheed, General Manager People & Culture, and Margie Fleming, Work Health and Safety Manager.

Life Care at Home

We have for the first time received Commonwealth funding for Life Care at Home to deliver services under the Commonwealth Home and Community Care (HACC) Program.

This is an exciting new development that will enable Life Care at Home to support many older people to maintain wellness and independence in their own homes in eastern and southern Adelaide. I congratulate Deborah Muldoon, General Manager Innovation & Service Development; Anne Higginson, Manager Life Care at Home; and Paul Philips, Manager Business Development & Projects, for their excellent work in generating this funding support to underpin our Live Every Day approach in the home environment.

Life Care Active

This edition of About Life features an article on the expansion of facilities and programs at Life Care Active’s Payneham site and its outreach services in the community.

Again, this demonstrates a broadening of our commitment in community services to meet the needs of people where and when required and to establish holistic, long-term relationships with them throughout the ageing experience.

Aldinga Beach Court

We are very pleased with progress on the expansion of Aldinga Beach Court with the first of the new beds to come on stream in March.

Sue Mark, Residential Services Manager at Aldinga Beach Court, and her staff have been very professional in maintaining outstanding service delivery during the building program.

His Excellency, Rear Admiral Kevin Scarce, the Governor of South Australia, has agreed to officially open the expanded Aldinga Beach Court in July. This will be a landmark event in our Master Planning process to deliver new standards in built form.

CEO’s REPORT

NEW MODELS OF CARE AND SERVICES

Allen Candy

Life Care Walk

Late last year, I participated again in the Life Care Walk, this time with the Life Care at Home team at Everard Park and as a Lifestyle Assistant at Aldinga Beach Court.

Both days were enjoyable and enlightening and I thank Vicki Wyatt, Life Care at Home Office Coordinator, and Carole McHugh, Lifestyle & Volunteer Coordinator and other staff members for welcoming me into their workplaces.

Adelaide Football Club

I am pleased to announce that we have extended our partnership with the Adelaide Football Club for the 2014 season with AFL football returning to Adelaide Oval.

This will provide dynamic new opportunities to promote our Live Every Day message to vast audiences at the ground and on television. The partnership will again allow Adelaide Crows players to visit our various sites including – for the first time – Hayfield Plains retirement village in Balaklava.

It also gives Life Care the opportunity to acknowledge and reward selected staff members with tickets and hospitality packages for home games.

About Life

Our quarterly newsletter also sets communication benchmarks in the aged care industry. Each edition provides appealing insights into the lives of people in the Life Care community – staff members, volunteers, residents and their families, retirees and others in the community.

The quality of the newsletter is largely achieved through the commitment of our management and staff, particularly our Lifestyle & Volunteer Coordinators, to identify story and picture opportunities showcasing how people can continue to enjoy life and achievements – and engage in happy and meaningful ways with others.

Allen CandyChief Executive Officer

TO SUPPORT THE AGEING EXPERIENCE

A busy, but enjoyable experience with members of the Life Care at Home team at Everard Park

The opening of the first house in a major expansion project at Aldinga Beach Court coincides with a proactive campaign by Life Care to engage directly with older people and their families in the southern region about aged care options and opportunities.

Deborah Muldoon, General Manager Innovation and Service Development, said Life Care was encouraging members of the public to call its 1800 555 990 number to inquire about residential care at Aldinga Beach Court or its retirement living, Life Care at Home and Life Care Active services.

“We are working to engage earlier and more effectively with people about the whole spectrum of services that Life Care offers,” Deborah explained.

“By adopting this more holistic approach, we can better respond to the individual needs of people where and when they are required.”

Derek Dittrich, General Manager Residential Services, said the first 12 of 35 new beds created by the three-stage expansion would be available at the end of March with the remainder to be commissioned in July.

“The expansion project has proceeded very successfully as part of our major commitment to aged care in the southern region,” Derek said.

Sue Mark, Residential Services Manager, said a wide diversity of services and facilities would enable more effective engagement and integration with the community.

“It is also in our charter to support retirement living residents at Aldinga Beach Court,” she explained.

“Apart from our residential and respite care and retirement living, we offer community services, a wide range of lifestyle and leisure activities and facilities including our popular café and hairdresser.

“Life Care understands that it can be a challenge navigating through aged care options. We encourage people to talk with us. We listen to questions about individual and family needs and offer solutions that help in decision making.”

A NEW ERA AT ALDINGA BEACH COURT

Sue Mark

An artist’s drawing of the expanded Aldinga Beach Court

Aldinga Beach CourtNewly extended aged care residential home

New extension

VACANCIES AVAILABLE

Quality aged care services and accommodation Life Care at Home · Retirement Living · Residential Services

Life Care’s newest aged care residential home, Aldinga Beach Court, has undergone an exciting new extension and accommodation is now available.

Call 1800 555 990 or visit www.lifecare.org.au for more information or to arrange a tour.

Are you looking for quality aged care accommodation in the South?

Around 100 people, along with their families, will benefit from Life Care at Home delivering broader services through the Commonwealth Home and Community Care (HACC) Program.

Funding is provided through this program to assist older people wishing to stay at home and maintain a level of independence in their familiar surroundings.

Life Care will receive HACC funding early this year to deliver the extended services over a wide area of eastern and southern Adelaide.

Anne Higginson, Manager Life Care at Home, said the funding covered the period from March this year to June 2015.

“This is great news for around 100 people in areas including Norwood, Payneham, St Peters, Burnside, Unley, Marion, Mitcham and others in the Onkaparinga Council region,” she said.

“Services delivered through the program include centre-based care, domestic assistance and social support.

“A key element of this form of care will be to create opportunities for older people living in their own homes to engage with others in similar circumstances.

“That is in line with our strategic plan to expand our influence in the community to deliver the type of care and support where and when it is needed to help people Live Every Day with renewed confidence in themselves.”

LIFE CARE AT HOME EXPANDS SERVICES

Lance Forster is a man of many hats who enjoys creative writing, laughter and engagement with others.

He lives with relative independence at Aberfoyle Park with valued support from Life Care at Home, including transport to the local shops and for special occasions, including catching up with mates from the Returned and Services League.

Despite health issues that hinder his mobility, Lance, 84, is always a man with a smile, a story to tell and a willingness to listen. Most importantly, he is devoted to uplifting the spirits of others.

Last year he participated in an Every Generation project that encouraged older people in the community to express themselves in meaningful ways.

As an accomplished wordsmith, Lance embraced the subject of depression with a focus on how lives and outlooks can be turned around with something as simple as a smile or a few kind words.

He turned to his prowess as a poet to express how Life Care at Home has helped him to Live Every Day with a bright outlook that inspires those around him.

“When Life Care at Home carers come through my door, it is like the sun has risen,” he said.

His poem, devoted to others who are feeling down, says in part:

You are not alone in this seeming darknessLet me share with you the light I haveSoon gone is my depressionGone is the heavy heart of suppressionAs I learn once again of love’s lessonAnd how good it is to laugh and love again.

Life Care at Home carer Diane Smythe said it was uplifting to see Lance meeting people each week on his local shopping trips and to share in the happiness that he strives to share every day.

LANCE LIVES TO DISPENSE LAUGHTER

Lance Forster

OUR EMPLOYEES REAPING REWARDS OF

The Life Care Walk has continued to be an enjoyable and enriching experience for Life Care’s executive personnel, managers and staff members at their various locations.

The concept began in 2012 when members of Life Care’s leadership group swapped their regular duties for a shift or day to spend time with employees in completely different work settings.

The positive outcomes were immediately evident in building an understanding of how people working within Life Care each contribute to our philosophy of Live Every Day through teamwork and a shared appreciation of daily challenges, roles, objectives and outcomes.

For staff members in particular, the Life Care Walk provides an opportunity to spend time with

executives and managers with whom they are not in regular contact to demonstrate the diversity of work involved in our defining standards of care.

Recently, the Life Care Walk has taken:• Chief Executive Officer, Allen

Candy, to Life Care at Home in its new administration facility at Fourth Avenue, Everard Park and to Aldinga Beach Court as a Lifestyle Assistant;

• Margie Fleming, Manager Work Health & Safety, with enrolled nurses at Glenrose Court;

• Michael Peake, Finance & Business Analyst, with maintenance personnel at Glenrose Court; and

• Anne Higginson, Manager Life Care at Home, with Chaplain Sue Ind at Aldinga Beach Court.

Allen found it a rewarding experience working at the front line in consumer directed care. For Life Care at Home staff, it was equally valuable providing the CEO with practical insights into daily work requirements.

“We worked together with Allen preparing consumer directed care statements embracing the particular needs of individuals receiving care in their own homes,” Life Care At Home Office Coordinator, Vicki Wyatt, explained.

“We have also had other senior executives with us and it is important for them to see how we tailor and roster our services to ensure that we address each client’s unique requirements.”

Aldinga Beach Court Lifestyle & Volunteer Coordinator, Carole McHugh, said: “Allen rolled up his sleeves and embraced the challenge the Life Care Way. We all enjoyed the experience.”

Margie said her “walk” with enrolled nurses Karyn Heinicke and Bella Hardie-Campbell highlighted the pressures and demands on people in these vital roles.

Karyn said nurses in aged care were required to work with residents and equipment that could create physical stress and injury. “I think Margie has seen how these things can happen so that we can all work together in a process of continuous improvement in workplace health and safety,” Karyn said. “It is about enhancing the workplace for the benefit of all while building relationships and understanding across Life Care.”

Vicki Wyatt and Allen Candy on Life Care at Home duties

‘Building relationships

and understanding

across Life Care’s

various workplaces’

VISITS THROUGH THE LIFE CARE WALK

Bella added: “The Life Care Walk allowed Margie to assist us in showering a resident and treating a wound. It is a unique opportunity to be part of the hands on care that we deliver each day.”

Michael said he “threw himself at the mercy” of maintenance personnel Darren Bashem and Sam McKenna in a variety of tasks from cleaning the car park, fixing a faulty television and a high-low chair, and repairing skirting boards at Glenrose Court.

Darren said it was an ideal way to engage with a leadership member to explain the diversity of maintenance services. Sam added that it was a great opportunity for Michael to see how maintenance duties could change rapidly and in different locations.

“We have set rosters, but things can change by the hour and we need to respond quickly and efficiently,” he said.

Sue explained that chaplaincy was in part about “walking alongside” individuals on their emotional and spiritual journey as they face the challenges and joys of life.

“The Life Care Walk is a wonderful program that creates a true sense of teamwork to enhance the well-being of our residents,” she added.

Margie Fleming shared valuable time with nurses Karyn Heinicke and Bella Hardie-Campbell

Michael Peake at work on maintenance tasks at Glenrose Court with Darren Bashem and Sam McKenna

Anne Higginson (centre) with Betty Jacobs and Sue Ind

Enjoying a cuppa and conversation on the Life Care Walk in chaplaincy at Aldinga Beach Court

LIFE CARE ACTIVE CONTINUES TO GROW

Life Care Active has expanded the main gymnasium and exercise program facilities at its new centre at 230 Payneham Road, Payneham.

The provision of extra space and equipment will allow Life Care Active to provide more flexibility in its health and fitness programs as it continues to grow to meet public demand.

Miles Lunde, Manager Life Care Active, said about 250 square metres of additional space had been created at the site.

“This will enable us to provide more exercise classes, bigger gymnasium facilities and a dedicated Pilates studio,” he said.

“The expansion is in response to growing interest and motivation among people of 55+ in the

community to participate in tailored health and fitness programs allowing them to keep healthy, mobile and independent.”

Life Care Active’s training and exercise programs are supported by professional and individualised allied health services including dietetics, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, podiatry and exercise physiology.

The programs continue to grow in popularity at Payneham and at other locations including Parkrose Village, Reynella Lodge and at the Aberfoyle Park Baptist Church. The exercise programs will also be introduced soon at Aldinga Beach Court.

Denise Davis, 73, of Woodcroft, is delighted that the Life Care Active Strength For Life program at Reynella is so close to her home.

“My husband passed away about four years ago, and I realised that without my health and fitness I would lose much of my independence,” she said.

“I joined the program in November and have found it to be a very positive experience. I am working to build strength in my muscles and can really feel the improvement.”

Val Eichner of Sheidow Park joined the Strength For Life program at Reynella just before Christmas and she has progressed in leaps and bounds.

“I have some musculo-skeletal problems and my physiotherapist suggested I participate in the Strength for Life program,” she said.

“I was referred to Life Care Active and it has been a fantastic experience. My husband, Tony, and I both participate in the programs and we feel much stronger.

“Our Life Care Active personal trainer has been wonderful in her professionalism and encouragement.”

PEOPLE & PLACESLIFE CARE ACTIVE

Balance and coordination

‘Expansion will allow

more exercise classes,

bigger gymnasium and a

dedicated Pilates studio’

AMAZING STORY OF A HUMBLE HERO

Modesty is without doubt one of Cyril Johnson’s defining and enduring qualities.

Yet for a man who says he’s lived “just an ordinary life,” his story has been one of extraordinary adventure, bravery and achievements across many of the world’s most forbidding frontiers.

He is, by any definition, a hero of the Royal Air Force. His World War ll service record includes ferrying military aircraft over thousands of kilometres of unmapped territory in North Africa and Egypt; surviving a crash landing in which he sustained a broken back in an area now known as Pakistan, then persisting in flying in Africa until he was declared medically unfit. Rather than be invalided out, he volunteered to work his way back to England by sea.

Cyril escorted 500 German prisoners of war from the Suez Canal to San Francisco, and then defied furious Atlantic storms and deadly U-boats. He went on to pilot Lancaster bombers in night raids over Germany. When doctors could no longer overlook his injuries, he trained as an Intelligence Officer, and in 1945 he helped to recover allied POWs in Burma after the Japanese surrender.

After the war, Cyril’s expertise as a civil engineer brought him to Australia, eventually settling here in 1959 with his wife, Elizabeth, and three children.

Over the years, Cyril has rarely spoken about his amazing experiences or elevated his service record above any other individual. But he did keep a journal recording in detail his personal experiences and many events that shaped the world in the middle of last century.

After many years, he finally agreed to allow his granddaughter, Kate Johnson, to harness those memoirs to write a book of compelling excitement and profound life lessons, yet reflecting the optimism, humour and humility of its central character.

The book, Wings of the Dawn, was launched at the Naval, Military and Air Force Club of South Australia in February, and it is now on sale at selected bookstores and online.

Cyril is now 94, and living independently with regular support from Life Care at Home.

“Embarrassed,” the great grandfather declared when asked about the launch of the book. But his pride in Kate’s dedication and achievement with the book shines through his modesty.

Kate, a medical student, spent several years researching and compiling her grandfather’s journal entries, diaries, logbooks, service records, letters and photographs while regularly interviewing him to allow his heroic story to emerge.

“Having nearly died from several childhood illnesses, in 1939 my grandfather’s application to the Royal Air Force was rejected on the grounds that he was ‘permanently unfit for all flying categories’,” Kate explained.

“But through an unstoppable determination to become a pilot, he found a way through the red tape that was hindering his dreams and went on to graduate as one of the top students in his initial pilot training.

“After crashing and breaking his back, grandfather went on to train as a Lancaster pilot braving the night skies over Germany for Bomber Command, in which there was a 44 percent death rate.”

Kate’s objective was initially to make a record for her seven cousins and the next generation. But with such

rich subject matter to work, she quickly realised the importance of writing his story in a way to help others understand life between 1920 and 1950.

She also wanted to make the story accessible, inspiring and enjoyable to all young adults – those with or without military or aviation backgrounds.

“In doing so, I hope it will encourage other young people to become increasingly interested in the lives of their parents and grandparents who may have all experienced their own amazing journeys,” she said.

“Even if you don’t have time to write a book, try to record the stories for a few hours each week or month. These days, most people have access to a voice recorder, and it makes it so much easier if in later years if you wish to type up the stories.”

About her own literary journey, Kate explained: “The more we progressed with the story line, the more I was astonished. I couldn’t wait to come back and listen to his captivating memories over more cups of tea.

“Although I must admit, as with most treasures, the jewels were often hidden, and he would happily let us pass them by. I soon cottoned onto his humble style and learnt to keep revisiting old stories, having to really dig for the gold.”

For more information on Wings of the Dawn, or to buy a copy of the book, visit: www.wingsofthedawn.com.au

Cyril and Kate shared an inspiring and emotional literary journey

FUN AND FREEDOM ON THREE WHEELS

In his 88th year, Oliver Fuller has not lost any of his passion for touring on a motorbike.

As a medical student, Oliver purchased his first motorbike as an affordable method of transport. But necessity soon translated into pure pleasure as he discovered the fun and freedom of two-wheel travel.

In 1948, many of his friends were getting married and instead of following in their footsteps he chose a “love affair” with a rare Vincent motorbike he saw in a shop window in Adelaide.

“Riding that motorbike was one of my great joys and I became involved in 24-hour trials in which I made many friends,” he said.

When he married, the bike with its distinctive SA 88 registration number and stylish Vincent sidecar became an enjoyable means of family travel for Oliver and his wife, Margaret,

and their children Roger and Anne. Oliver continued to maintain the motorbike in perfect condition.

As he progressed into private practice and later as a senior doctor in the Public Health Department, he reluctantly sold the bike, but quickly jumped at the opportunity to buy it back when it came on the market.

As he approached his 88th birthday, Roger and Anne decided it was entirely appropriate for their father to have another day on the road with the bike that has figured so prominently in his life.

With Roger riding the Vincent and Oliver in the sidecar with his helmet and leathers, the celebration journey went through the Adelaide Hills and Barossa Valley.

“It was fantastic,” Oliver said. “I needed help to get into and out of the sidecar, but once we got going it was tremendous fun.”

A couple of weeks later he also enjoyed another ride to a meeting of the Vincent Owners’ Motorcycle Club.

Margaret – who became well known in South Australia through her passion for caring for sick and injured birds –passed away some time ago, but Oliver lives in his family home at Linden Park with support from Life Care at Home.

“It is a wonderful service that allows me to maintain my independence and continue doing many of the things I enjoy,” he said.

Anne Higginson, Manager, Life Care at Home, said Oliver’s 88th birthday journey was a fitting expression of how the organisation encourages people in our care to “Live Every Day to the fullest.”

PEOPLE & PLACESLIFE CARE AT HOME

Oliver Fuller snug in side car

Roger and Oliver take off for the birthday ride

Aldinga Beach Court resident, Hilda Lee, recently enjoyed her 100th birthday with a gathering of her family to reminisce about a long and loving life.

And it was an occasion for the entire Aldinga Beach Court community to enjoy as Hilda has been in residence longer than anybody else at Life Care’s southern care home.

Hilda has been an Aldinga Beach Court resident for the past 14 years after enjoying a period in respite care at the facility. Among those celebrating her centenary were son, Barry, and daughter, Frances, along with Hilda’s grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Hilda and her late husband, George, migrated to Australia with their children in 1957, and both worked for the Farmer’s Union company in Adelaide.

In the 1970s, they purchased a block of land at Aldinga Beach and George built the family home on weekends.

“This area has been home for mum for a large part of her life, and she has always loved the natural beauty of the hills and sea,” Barry said.

“After our dad passed away in 1992, mum lived in the house for a while until she began to face a few challenges.

“We suggested some respite care at Aldinga Beach Court and, at first, mum was a little nervous about that transition. But she loved it so much she couldn’t wait to move in.”

Fourteen years later, it was little wonder that Hilda was surrounded by her family, flowers and happiness for her milestone birthday.

Despite failing memory and eyesight, she still enjoys her television and visits from loved ones.

FAMILY GATHERING FOR HILDA’s 100th

PEOPLE & PLACESALDINGA BEACH COURT

Birthday ‘girl’ Hilda Lee with her son Barry and his wife Pauline

CARING AND SHARING WITH OUR RETIREES

Sid Chorley delivers a meal to Joe and Georgina Howie

Life Care retirees living independently at Aldinga Beach are increasingly participating in and enjoying services and activities provided by Aldinga Beach Court.

Residential Services Manager, Sue Mark, and Lifestyle & Volunteer Coordinator, Carole McHugh, are regularly meeting with the retirement residents to strengthen the level of engagement.

“We are providing meals from Aldinga Beach Court to retirement residents who may be unwell, and we are encouraging them to participate in the broader range of Life Care services, including Life Care at Home and Life Care Active,” Sue said. “It is about ensuring our retirees feel part of the Life Care family and have the support they need to continue enjoying their independence.”

Retirees Ian and Gail Fowler value the close relationship with Aldinga Beach Court. “We looked at a lot of retirement homes before we moved in here in 2009 and we certainly made the right choice.”

Recently, retiree couple Joe and Georgina Howie have enjoyed meals provided by Aldinga Beach Court with special deliveries from another resident, Sid Chorley.

STIRRING TREASURED MEMORIES

Even when memories are hard to retrieve, music and song can bring people together in an enjoyable social environment.

Studies around the world have indicated that music can stimulate the brains of older people, including individuals with dementia, encouraging them to sing favourite verses.

Norman House and Parkrose Village are embracing the concept with the formation of a choir that will allow members to express themselves in a very special way.

When the call went out for potential singers before Christmas, no less than 30 Norman House guests and residents from Parkrose Village responded by coming together for a fun sing-along.

It is hoped that numbers will increase with newly recruited volunteers,

Joy van der Hoek and Wendy McDougall, playing a key role in the development of the concept.

Joy is a retired primary school teacher who throughout her career encouraged singing among her students, and Wendy – despite being legally blind – is an accomplished pianist with considerable experience in accompanying choirs.

“It is still experimental, but we are hoping that the opportunity for people to come together in song will have benefits for people from Norman House and Parkrose Village,” Joy explained.

PEOPLE & PLACESNORMAN HOUSE

In harmony at choir practice

‘It is a great way for

Norman House guests

to engage with Parkrose

Village residents’

Old songs generate happy memories

“The initial response was very pleasing and we were encouraged by the fun that the first sing-along generated.”

Research has shown that people with memory loss may not remember all the words, but can often burst into song with favourite verses, particularly from famous musicals including The Sound of Music, Wizard of Oz and Oklahoma.

One study over four months among elderly residents at a United States care home indicated that the mental performance of those who took part

in regular group singing sessions improved compared with others who just listened.

The Alzheimer’s Society in the United Kingdom has introduced a program called Singing for the Brain to help people recall words and melody in a fun environment.

Jacinta Robertson, Manager Respite Services at Norman House, said the success of the choir concept would be judged on the number of participants and the enjoyment it generated.

“It is a great way for our guests to engage with Parkrose Village residents and we hope that the idea may ultimately lead to a special concert with family members among the guests,” Jacinta said.

Wendy McDougall at the keyboard

WITH A SONG IN THEIR HEARTS

DOROTHY IS UNITED IN SOCCER SUCCESS

PEOPLE & PLACESPARKROSE VILLAGE

One of John Hall’s primary goals in life is to prevent them from being kicked against him as an emerging star of the Australian soccer scene.

Another is to visit one of his biggest fans as often as possible.

That fan is his grandmother, Parkrose Village resident Dorothy Hall. Since John was a seven year old at Stirling East Primary School, Dorothy has followed his progress in soccer with pride and passion.

Until she was forced to “retire” from driving at the age of 80, she regularly attended games to barrack for the tall goalkeeper who, at the age of 19, was recently selected in the Australian Under 22 squad.

John is also a member of the Adelaide United youth team and he recently signed a contract for senior selection with the Reds.

“I love each of my nine grandchildren, but John has given me particular joy with his abilities in the game,” Dorothy, 82, said.

“I can’t get to his games as often as I used to, but my son, David, and his wife, Ingrid, occasionally take me to watch John play.”

John has presented his grandmother with several of his Adelaide United shirts, and she keeps newspaper and Internet clippings of his progress.

The Australian Under 22 team recently played in championships in Oman with coach and former Adelaide United boss, Aurelio Vidmar, saying the tournament was an ideal platform to start considering players for the 2016 Olympic Games.

John clearly remembers his grandmother attending games when he first started playing as a young schoolboy.

“I am very proud to have somebody like grandma who supports me so much,” he said. “We deeply appreciate everything she has done for our family and I enjoy visiting her now at Parkrose Village.”

Dorothy and grandson John sharing their passion for soccer

Enjoying the company of others is part of a fulfilling life and an increasingly important aspect of the ageing experience.

Life Care encourages interaction between residents and their families and the wider community through a wide range of leisure and lifestyle opportunities.

Happy Hour has become an increasingly popular aspect of the social program in our residential care homes, and it is a concept that has been warmly embraced by residents, family members, staff and volunteers at Parkrose Village.

Wendy Charleson, Lifestyle & Volunteer Coordinator at Parkrose Village, said Happy Hour was introduced late last year with about 40 people arriving for the first get-together.

“We are very happy to report the success of the idea with people meeting in the Heritage Lounge every second Friday to share refreshments, conversation and laughter,” Wendy said.

“Many residents have a regular group of people they sit with for meals. But Happy Hour allows wider engagement and the opportunity to create new friendships.”

Among the eager participants in Happy Hour at Parkrose Village are residents Joyce and Leo McCabe, who are this year celebrating 64 years of marriage.

“We love to meet people and Happy Hour is so well organised,” Joyce said. “People have so many stories and experiences to share and this is a wonderful way for us to mix with others in a relaxed setting.”

Leo is an eager member of the Men’s Group at Parkrose Village, but he also sees great merit in the Happy Hour concept.

“It is excellent because it involves men and women and that is

something we all enjoy,” he said. “We all have different stories to tell.

“Wendy and other staff members work so hard to ensure we have

a good time and I hope numbers continue to grow for our Happy Hour events.”

TOASTING THE JOYS OF HAPPY HOUR

Joyce and Leo McCabe celebrating sixty four years of marriage

GIFTS FROM OUR CRADLE OF CARE

The engagement of Life Care residents with the wider community across all age groups could not be more profoundly showcased than in a heart-warming project at Roselin Court.

And the ultimate beneficiaries of this endeavor are babies who will grow up with an appreciation of the care, warmth and love that passes from one generation to another – even when they are strangers.

The Roselin Court Knit and Natter Group are residents who gather regularly to create a variety of handcrafts in plain and purl, and to enjoy sharing stories and memories.

Over a period, the group knitted a colourful collection of baby blankets initially for staff members who were pregnant.

When the blankets began to pile up, staff member Lorraine Eastwood, who also volunteers to help the knitters and natterers, suggested they be donated to the Women’s and Children’s Hospital at North Adelaide.

The idea was immediately embraced by group members, who went to work to produce as many baby blankets as they could for the hospital while Lorraine finished them off with fine crochet edging.

In early February, Lorraine and Residential Services Manager, Melissa Sweet, travelled to the Women’s and Children’s with two of the knitters – Giannina Nussio and Pat Chambers – to present the blankets.

They were warmly received by the hospital with the intention of passing on the blankets to young mothers in needy circumstances.

Giannina said it was a delight to be able to produce blankets for such a good cause. “From my heart, I like

to help others – especially children,” she said.

Pat said the group members took on the project with passion and often she would knit from 7.00am until late at night. “If I can’t sleep, I pick up the needles,” she added.

Like most of the Knit and Natter Group members, Giannina and Pat started knitting as youngsters and made many clothing items for their families over the years.

Lorraine said it was a wonderful outcome for the group to be able to lovingly knit blankets for needy mothers to take home with their newborn babies.

FOOTNOTE: The knitters and natterers are now looking at other projects and would appreciate any donations of eight-ply wool in any colour sent to Roselin Court.

Please call reception on 8362 8974 for more information.

PEOPLE & PLACESROSELIN COURT

Joy in giving and receiving ... (Back row) Sandy Keane of the Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Giannina Nussio, Pat Chambers, Residential Services Manager, Melissa Sweet. (Front row) Midwife Kate Stephenson and Lorraine Eastwood

Michelle Anderson has two great loves in her life – dogs and spending time with older people.

As a volunteer at Reynella Lodge, she has been able to marry her two loves while regularly bringing a lot of joy to the residents.

Through her association with Delta Society Therapy Dogs, Michelle purchased two pups from the same litter more than three years ago to train for animal companionship.

The Delta Society’s devoted volunteers and their pets brighten the lives of an estimated 20,000 Australians in hospitals and care facilities every week.

Michelle and her two Labradors – Baxter and Ejay – started at Reynella Lodge having companionship meetings with individual residents.

However, as her visits became increasingly popular, she realised the greatest benefits would come from group meetings where residents could gather to share stories about their own dogs and other pet companions from the past.

Every Friday afternoon, residents meet in the reception area at Reynella Lodge to enjoy pats and chats with Baxter and Ejay.

“It is amazing how much the residents enjoy that time,” Michelle explained. “Some people in their 90s can remember every dog they had during their lives.

“In other cases where sight, hearing or memory may be fading, residents simply enjoy patting the dogs. The touch experience generates a certain contentment.”

During school holidays, family members of residents – particularly grandchildren and great

grandchildren – also enjoy spending time with Baxter and Ejay.

Vi Bentley was one of the residents who participated in one-on-one meetings with Michelle and the Labradors, but she now finds the group gatherings more enjoyable.

“It is such a wonderful experience to have these lovely dogs come in to spend time with us,” she said.

Other residents, including Victor Diricx and Ann Rincker express similar feelings while Norma Hoffman said the canine companionship generated memories of how her family always had two or three dogs on their farm.

Andrea Hanson, Lifestyle & Volunteer Coordinator at Reynella Lodge, said the visits by Michelle, Baxter and Ejay had become so popular with residents they now called themselves the Pat and Chat Group.

POPULARITY OF PETS AND PATS

Rita Hawes and Ejay

PEOPLE & PLACESREYNELLA LODGE

Victor Diricx and Baxter Norma Hoffman, Lesley Schilling, Jerry Haines with Ejay and Baxter

Whether window shopping or actually buying, “retail therapy” can be an uplifting experience for most people.

For many individuals, it is simply about the enjoyment of mingling with others and observing passing parades of people in a vibrant community setting.

A group of residents at Glenrose Court are regular visitors to Burnside Village Shopping Centre on bus excursions that create a lot of joy and interaction. From buying necessities and banking to enjoying a quiet chat in the centre cafe, the shopping trips have had a positive impact on the lives and vitality of the residents.

Accompanied by volunteers Lyn Craig, Barb Field and Ron McKay-Smith, the residents visit the shopping centre twice a month, firstly enjoying morning tea together before dividing into groups for browsing or buying.

Glenrose Court Lifestyle & Volunteer Coordinator, Penny McCullough, said the group of about 15 took it in turns to go on the nine-seater bus.

“People in the village shops have got to know the residents who they call the Burnside Bus Group,” Penny said. “It is equally enjoyable for our residents because they look forward to visiting the centre and saying hello to the shopkeepers.

“Something as simple as a shopping trip means so much, and it is a glowing example of how we regularly encourage our residents to Live Every Day.”

The words of the Glenrose Court shoppers clearly reflect their enjoyment in the regular visits to Burnside Village.

Joy Zaharia said she loved the atmosphere of the centre and the opportunity to see latest fashions in clothes.

Lesley Lamb enjoys selecting clothing items and asking other residents their opinion of her choices. “It is also enjoyable just to be there observing people,” she added.

Val Secomb remembers the Burnside Village develop from a small centre and was a regular shopper there. “It is local and much better than being in the city,” she said.

Lilian Hardy was also an enthusiastic village shopper and enjoys her regular visits with the Burnside Bus Group. “I do a little bit of shopping, but it is as much about having an outing and meeting people,” she explained.

Other residents – including June Ranger, Jeff Grivell and Nellie Pinder – expressed similar sentiments about the joys of being able to wander around a colourful shopping environment to meet people and feel at home in the wider community.

SHOPPING AROUND FOR ENJOYMENT

PEOPLE & PLACESGLENROSE COURT

Barb Field, Lesley Lamb and Joy Zaharia window shopping

Lilian Hardy and Ron McKay-Smith

‘People in the village shops

have got to know the

residents who they call

the Burnside Bus Group.’