Whilst in Puerto Natales (a small town in Patagonia with a latitude of 52° S of the equator) I met a local woman whose father has dementia and is now residing in the local nursing home. Whilst worlds apart, our experience of what is important in providing good dementia care was very similar, we discussed the value of having good quality care in communities close to family, that residents continue to have a purpose, the importance of maintaining a homelike environment and having skilled staff that are kind and show respect. I came away feeling confident that in progressing the Twilight Way the needs of residents are universal. Our model aims to ensure a resident centred approach based on a foundation of enablement, benefiting both residents and staff. A small dedicated working party is now progressing this model, with resident input, and I look forward to sharing our progress with you as we aim to support residents being more actively engaged in life in their home.
I am also pleased to introduce our new Facility Manager Margaret Smithson who commenced with us in December at Glengarry, Mosman. Margaret brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role, and has a very personable approach which translates to a very competent manager who is having a positive influence on the Glengarry community. Residents at Glengarry are also regularly hosting the Jack & Jill kindergarten for activities and morning tea, which is proving very popular and a much anticipated part of the activity calendar.
Life in all our homes has been busy with residents getting out into the gardens, enjoying the temperate weather, picnicking in some of our picturesque surrounds and generally enjoying life. Our volunteer base has grown considerably this year, with a number of residents now receiving regular visits, which makes a significant difference to their lives and to life in our homes. We are also hosting a Health & Wellbeing Seminar on Thursday 12th April 2018 at Hunters Hill Village to coincide with Seniors Week – see our website for more details. Residents across all homes are also busy preparing artworks for their Art Exhibition and Cocktail Party, which is to be held on Tuesday 16 October 2018 at Glades Bay Gardens. This event promises to be something special with a number of large artworks to be auctioned on the night, promoting the diversity of talents amongst our residents.
Work continues on a number a significant capital projects. Jamieson House redevelopment planning is progressing well with the Board considering two options for redevelopment at Beecroft. Option 1 being an integrated site including retirement living apartments, with the second option being the redevelopment of a larger residential aged care home. Whichever option is delivered you can be sure it will be a beautiful facility, in lovely leafy surrounds with a historic feel. Rooms at Glengarry Mosman are being upgraded as they become available, with residents enjoying the contemporary updates and refreshed ensuites. The larger upgrades of the entry, dementia unit and laundry which will transform the home will commence shortly, with a detailed program provided to residents and families with the aim of minimising disruption to resident life.
We are also building a large online presence and I would encourage you to “like us” on Facebook and follow us on Instagram. This provides a forum for our communities to stay in touch and develop a greater understanding of life in a Twilight home. I am also interested in promoting our services and encourage you to write a positive review on Facebook, Google or Aged Care Online, if your experience with us is not positive then please let me know as I am always interested in receiving feedback to enable us to improve our service.
Whilst it is hard to believe we are already in March I hope you enjoy reading this edition of Twilight Connections and the goings on within our homes. I would also like to take this opportunity to wish those who celebrate a blessed and wonderful Easter.
Welcome to 2018 and our first edition of Twilight Connections for the year. Over the Christmas period I was fortunate enough to travel to Patagonia to climb mountains and experience life in one of the most remote areas in southern Chile. Following a three week disconnect from technology I have returned with a renewed energy and commitment to continue our journey to be the preferred provider of care services within our communities.