Southern Star Summer Edition 2019

Southern Star

Helping seniors find a better way to age

2019 Summer Edition

Nurse
Practitioner joins
Southern Plus team

Read more page 3

Stay healthy
this summer

Read more page 4

Physical exercise
and dementia

Read more page 6

Contents

HEALTH 3 A note from the CEO
Southern Plus welcomes new 4-5
Nurse Practitioner to the team 6-7 Welcome to the 2019 summer edition
of Southern Star.
Stay healthy this summer 8
In this edition of Southern Star, you can find out
Physical exercise and dementia about the many initiatives that are occurring
across the SCC Group, as well as the broader aged
Happy feet - looking after care industry.
your feet
We are excited to tell you about some of the new
WELLNESS initiatives and services available to our clients
Personal alarm provides peace of including our new Nurse Practitioner, our home
mind for Southern Plus clients 9 care budget calculator and the introduction of
Tai Chi classes at the Southern Plus Health and
Elder abuse – know the facts 10-11 Wellness Centre in East Fremantle. I am confident
all of these initiatives will provide many benefits
New home care services calculator for our clients and go a long way to helping them
achieve their health, wellness and lifestyle goals.
makes budgeting simple 12
As always, we have included a number of
Tai Chi classes to begin at 13 informative stories to benefit your health and
Southern Plus Health and wellness, including exercises to combat dementia,
Wellness Centre tips for keeping your feet healthy and advice for
looking after your health during the warmer months.
NEWS 13
I hope you enjoy reading the ‘around our
SCC awarded training grant 14 community’ section and seeing the interesting
activities, events and milestones being celebrated
SCC staff shine at WA Mental 15 across our organisation. We welcome contributions
Health Awards 16 from our clients and residents for Southern
16 Star and you can do so by speaking to your
Residents recruit the best staff site manager, wellness partner or by contacting
for the job [email protected].

Volunteer profile On behalf of the entire SCC Group, I wish you and
your loved ones a merry Christmas and a happy
Volunteer event story and safe 2020.

COMMUNITY 18-19 Errol Turner,
Around our community 20-21 Chief Executive Officer

SCC Village bus update 22
23
SCC Clients talent on display at
Mental Health Week Artshow

Easy Christmas pudding

Southern Star magazine is published by
Southern Cross Care (WA) Inc and is subject
to copyright in its entirety.

The contents may not be reproduced in any form,
either in whole or part, without written permission
from the publisher. All rights reserved in material

2 accepted for publication unless specified otherwise.

Southern Plus
welcomes new
Nurse Practitioner
to the team

The broad range of health and wellness services Nurse Practitioners work as key members Health
available to Southern Plus home care clients of the healthcare team and collaborate with
continues to grow, with Nurse Practitioner other nurses and healthcare professionals
Nicole Harwood, joining the Southern Plus Team. including GPs, medical and surgical specialists,
physiotherapists, dieticians, occupational
As a Nurse Practitioner, Nicole can provide the therapists, social workers, and many others.
following services to clients: They work in a variety of locations, both in
hospital and community settings.
• ‘Whole-person’ care focusing on a clients
physical and mental wellbeing. Nicole said she was excited to be joining the
Southern Plus team and supporting clients to
• Clinical support following a stay in hospital. achieve their health and wellness goals.

• Provide prescriptions and access to PBS “I am passionate about seniors health,
medicines. supporting seniors to continue living in the
setting that they choose, and helping them to
• Can refer patients to hospitals and avoid a stay in hospital.
specialists.
“Southern Plus is fortunate to have an
• Can order x-rays and diagnostic tests. extremely experienced and knowledgeable
nursing team who I am looking forward to
Nicole’s services will be available to all home working with, providing an advanced level of
care clients and Southern Plus Health and care that focuses on the clients’ whole physical
Wellness Centre clients in East Fremantle. and mental wellbeing,” Nicole said.

What is a Nurse Practitioner? Nicole will be working closely with our home
care clients to assist them to review their care
According to the Australian College of plans and ensure they can achieve their health
Nurse Practitioners, a Nurse Practitioner is and wellness goals. This includes helping them
a Registered Nurse with the experience and access additional home care services that
expertise to diagnose and treat people of all may be necessary from a health perspective,
ages with a variety of acute or chronic health set up chronic disease management plans
conditions. Nurse Practitioners have completed and any other help with medication reviews
additional university study at Master’s degree and clinical care.
level and are the most senior clinical nurses in
our health care system.

3

Health Stay healthy Tips to help you stay well during
this summer hot weather

We live in a sunburnt country Drink plenty of water - One of the best ways
where hot days and heatwaves to avoid heat-related illness is to drink plenty
can stress our bodies. With hot of water. It’s important to keep drinking water
summers likely to continue, even if you don’t feel thirsty, because this
the information provided by can prevent you from becoming dehydrated.
HealthDirect Australia show’s Avoid alcoholic, hot or sugary drinks (including
you how to stay cool and tea and coffee) because these can make
hydrated during the warmer dehydration worse.
months and what to do if you
start to feel unwell. Keep your body cool - Keeping as cool as
possible can also help you prevent heat-
4 related illness. Make sure you stay out of the
sun. Drinking cold drinks and eating smaller,
cold meals, such as salads and fruit, can also
help you to keep cool. Other things to do
include wearing light-coloured and loose-fitting
clothes made from natural fibres such as
cotton, and taking cool showers or baths.

Keep your house cool - You can help keep
your house cool by closing all the windows
and shutting curtains and blinds during the
day. If you don’t have air-conditioning, go to a
cool place such as a library, shopping centre,
cinema or swimming pool. Stay in the coolest
room in the house and use the stove and oven
as little as possible.

Keep an eye on the
weather forecast and
know who to call if
you need help.

Take care of others - Visit or call elderly Where can I get help? Health
friends, neighbours or relatives at least once
a day. Check they have water in the fridge If you are unwell, contact your doctor or
and encourage them to drink it. You may like go to the nearest hospital emergency
to take them to a shopping centre, library or department. If you think your symptoms
cinema with air-conditioning. are serious, call triple zero (000) for an
ambulance immediately.
Have a plan - Keep an eye on the weather
forecast and know who to call if you need While you are waiting for an ambulance
help. Ask your doctor if you have any health try to cool yourself down. You can do
conditions that mean you are at greater risk this by placing icepacks under your
of heat-related illness, and what you need to armpits, on your groin or on the back
do about them to keep well in the heat. If you of the neck to reduce body heat. Take
are unwell, contact your doctor or go to the a cool shower or bath (if you feel well
nearest hospital emergency department. If you enough) or spray yourself with cool
think your symptoms are serious, call for an water from a spray bottle.
ambulance immediately on triple zero (000).
You can also call healthdirect on 1800
Keep your food safe - Make sure food that 022 222 to talk to a registered nurse
needs refrigeration is properly stored, and 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
defrost foods in the fridge, not on the
kitchen bench. (Source: www.healthdirect.gov.au)

Stay safe in the sun - If you need to go outside
in the sun, it’s important to protect your skin.
If you avoid sunburn, you reduce the risk of
skin cancer, which is one of the most common
cancer types in Australia.

5

Physical exercise and dementia

Physical exercise is essential for What role does physical exercise play in
maintaining good blood flow to the brain reducing the risk of dementia?

Health and may encourage new brain cell growth Research into the potential for physical
exercise to reduce the risk of dementia is
and survival, according to experts from continuing. While we do not yet have definitive
evidence from randomised trials, several
Dementia Australia. studies have found that physical activity in
early, mid and late life is associated with a
The information below provided by Dementia lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
Australia outlines the role that physical exercise
can play in reducing the risk of developing The benefits of exercise are clear when
dementia and the benefits it offers to people considering other factors associated with
with dementia. It is important to seek advice the risk of developing dementia. People who
from your doctor on what type and intensity of exercise regularly are less likely to experience
exercise is best suited to you. heart disease and stroke, both factors that are
associated with an increased risk of developing
Can physical exercise reduce the risk dementia. Exercise is also important in
of developing dementia? Can physical reducing the risk of high blood pressure, type
exercise help people with dementia? 2 diabetes and obesity, all of which are risk
factors for dementia.
Physical exercise is an important part of
a healthy lifestyle, contributing to general Several prospective studies (where large
fitness, muscle control, coordination and groups of people are followed up over time)
a sense of wellbeing. Physical exercise is have found that higher levels of physical
also essential in optimising cardiovascular exercise are associated with less cognitive
function and may stimulate brain cell growth decline in older people. Other studies have
and survival. Exercise is therefore one of the found that people who exercise experience a
factors researchers are considering for its role slower loss of brain tissue as they age. Regular
in reducing the risk of developing dementia aerobic exercise, including walking, in sessions
and for the benefits it offers to people with of at least 30 minutes has been found to be
dementia. Of course, you should always consult beneficial for cognitive health. All exercise is
your doctor before starting any exercise worth doing. Why this is so is still being studied,
program, particularly where there are other but it is thought that exercise may improve
illnesses or disabilities to consider. blood flow to the brain, reduce cardiovascular
risk factors and possibly stimulate nerve cell
growth and survival.

6

What is the right exercise? cardiovascular risk factors linked to dementia HNeawlsth
and modulates sleep where neuronal growth
For general physical health, research has and repair heavily takes place.
shown that three types of exercise should be
included in your regular routine: “Resistance training is increasingly important as
we age, our body’s function naturally declines
• Sustained aerobic exercise - exercise from midlife for a multitude of reasons,
performed at a moderate level of intensity changes in hormone balance are a prime
over a long period of time. It improves example, especially for women. Natural decline
general physical health and increases blood can be greatly reduced through exercise.
flow to the brain. Such exercise can gradually Wastage of the muscles (atrophy) is one of
be increased as fitness improves, but at least the primary issues leading to joint dysfunction,
30 minutes of aerobic exercise on most days leaving many older Australians experiencing
of the week is recommended. Examples pain and becoming physically inactive. Regular
of aerobic exercise include brisk walking, resistance training aids in averting this whole
dancing, jogging, bicycling and swimming. scenario.

• Strength, weight or resistance training - “Flexibility and balance training support keep
involves exercising muscles against an the body supple and mobile. Staying mobile
external force that provides resistance to through our joints by participating in flexibility
the movement. The benefits of strength exercise is a simple and often a relaxing
training include increased muscle, tendon process which can improve joint function.
and ligament strength, bone density, Balance training is particularly important to
flexibility, tone, metabolic rate and postural maintain confidence in how we go about our
support. Resistance training can include daily, physical and non-physical activities.
squeezing rubber balls, using elastic Maintenance and efforts to improve balance
resistance bands and lifting weights. will keep you confident to stay mobile and
participate in regular exercise.”
• Flexibility and balance training - exercises
to strengthen the spine and supporting For more information about how exercise
muscles and improve coordination
and balance. Such exercises can be can benefit you, please contact our exercise
incorporated into an aerobic exercise
program. Exercise such as bending and physiologists at the Southern Plus Health and
stretching, tai chi, yoga and pilates can all
help with flexibility and balance. Wellness Centre on 08 6424 7443.

Matt Osman, Exercise Physiologist at the
The Vario Clinic at Southern Plus’ Health and
Wellness Centre explains the importance of
these different types of activity.

“Each of these exercise recommendations
serve different purposes. I encourage all of
my patient’s to treat aerobic exercise as the
number one priority in a physical activity
regimen. Most importantly, it offsets risk of all-
cause mortality, irrespective of increased BMI
(i.e. being overweight or obese). In relation to
dementia, aerobic exercise positively impacts

7

Happy feet -
looking after
your feet

SHeecatlitohn heading After your feet have carried you millions frequently as the bones in your feet change
with age, this way you can ensure you choose
of kilometres through your life, they can shoes that fit well and are comfortable.

eventually wear down. Taking good care When should you see a podiatrist?

of your feet as you age is good for your Your feet are mirrors of your health. Warning
signs of health conditions can be dry skin,
foot health as it helps you stay active brittle nails, burning and tingling sensations in
your feet, or feelings of cold, numbness, and
and mobile. discolouration. If these occur, see a podiatrist,
as they, along with your GP, will be able to
The following information provided by the pinpoint the cause.
Australian Podiatry Association, shows there
are ways to keep your feet healthy as you Regular check-ups with your podiatrist are
age – through proper maintenance, care and recommended, especially if you cannot look
regular check-ups. after your feet yourself and you have no
one to help you. Nails that grow too long
What happens to feet as they age? can become infected and if you are diabetic
– which has a higher risk factor as we age –
As you age, you can lose cushioning and soft infection can lead to more serious illness.
tissue fat in the pads of your heels and balls You might benefit from seeing a podiatrist if
of your feet, near your toes. Like the skin on you have one or more of the following:
your face, there is also a loss of elasticity in the • Have painful feet.
skin on your feet, making it thin and vulnerable. • Experience leg pain.
Bone deformities – such as bunions or arthritis • Have painful knees.
– and difficulties undertaking basic foot care, • Experience sore hips.
can lead to foot health issues and sometimes • Find walking or standing uncomfortable.
an increased risk of falls – which for many can • Experience leg or foot pain during sport.
have drastic consequences. Nails also become • Need advice on correct footwear.
more brittle, thicker and harder, making them
difficult to trim and prone to ingrown toenails, Southern Plus can help you with your foot
fungal breakouts and other infections. health, ensuring you receive the necessary
support and care from a qualified podiatrist.
Can foot problems be improved?
For more information about how to get a
For older people, most foot problems can be podiatry home visit, please contact
improved by regular maintenance and care, Southern Plus on 1300 000 161.
keeping weight down, shoe modification and
use of cushioned insoles.

To undertake regular foot maintenance, some
elderly people have difficulty reaching their
feet or have bad eyesight, so simple things like
cutting toenails can be an issue – if this is the
case get a family member to help or go and
see a podiatrist. If you can cut your toenails
yourself, make sure you trim them just short of
the end of the toe, using a strong pair of nail
clippers. After clipping, smooth the nails with a
file or emery board, using downward strokes. It
is also important to have your feet measured

8

Personal alarm provides peace
of mind for Southern Plus clients

More and more Southern Plus home care and the operator cannot hear you, or if you
lose consciousness and cannot communicate,
clients are choosing to use a personal the Blueassist monitoring centre will follow
your agreed response procedure and send the
alarm to support them to remain appropriate person or service to your home.

independent and living in their own home Importantly, the Blueassist personal alarm
communicates using 3G mobile technology,
for as long as possible. meaning no fixed line or NBN connection is
required for use.
The personal alarms, which are offered through
security provider Blueassist, come in the form Lindy Caporn, Head of Southern Plus Home
of a lightweight, slimline pendant which can be Care said the personal alarms provide clients
worn on the neck or wrist, is hot waterproof, and their loved ones peace of mind about their
lights up when activated and has an active health, safety and security.
range of up to 200 metres. The alarm also has
a console based in the client’s home, which is “The easy to use personal alarms from
connected to a 24/7 support team. Blueassist really do provide an additional level
of safety and security for clients who choose
When you need assistance, simply press your to remain living at home. I encourage any
pendant or help button to send an alert to the client who is interested in finding out more
Blueassist monitoring centre which provides about the alarms to speak to their Wellness
round-the-clock support, including emergency Partner,” Lindy said.
response and regular system checks to ensure
your ongoing safety. You can be heard in most
areas of your home, however if you are outside

SWeecltlnioenssheading

9

Elder abuse – know the facts

SWeecltlnioenssheading With elder abuse becoming more and more over 75,000 older Western Australians are
affected. This number may be a lot higher for
prevalent in society today, it is important that people in ’at risk’ categories. These include
older people with physical or mental incapacity
we all know the signs of elder abuse and and people living in institutional settings.

what help is available to those experiencing Only a small fraction of elder abuse cases are
reported, which means the prevalence is likely
elder abuse. to be vastly underestimated.

Advocare, an organisation that supports and Elder abuse can happen anywhere – in
protects the rights of older West Australians, residential aged care, in community housing, in
has prepared the following information community services and in families.
about elder abuse. Advocare provides a free
and confidential service to people who are As with many forms of abuse it is hard to
experiencing elder abuse and offer advice, speak out. Sometimes it is even hard to admit
organise access to suitable resources and it to yourself. When elder abuse happens
support services, and work with clients to help within families you can feel ashamed to seek
them resolve their situation. help and fearful of reprisals. Importantly,
organisations such as Advocare are available
What is elder abuse? to listen to you and work with you to resolve
the situation.
Elder abuse is defined by the World Health
Organisation (WHO) as a single or repeated act, If you believe you or someone you know
or lack of appropriate action, occurring within is suffering from elder abuse please
any relationship where there is an expectation contact Advocare on 1300 724 679.
of trust, which causes harm or distress to an
older person.

WHO estimates that 15.7% of people 60
years and older in the community may have
experienced abuse. This means that potentially

10

Types of elder abuse Signs of elder abuse SWeecltlnioenssheading

Financial – improper use of your money or Remember, abuse may be occurring without
assets. This can cover withholding money or any indicators or signs, and some signs may be
making decisions on how your money is used caused by something other than abuse. Even if
without your consent. you are not sure, talk to someone about your
suspicions. Signs to watch for include:
Neglect – withholding essential care. This can
include withholding food, shelter, clothing, • Acting fearfully or withdrawing.
medical or dental care or emotional support.
• Signs of stress, anxiety or depression.
Psychological – Inflicting mental anguish.
This kind of abuse creates fear or feelings of • Bruising or other physical injuries.
shame and powerlessness.
• An inability to pay normal bills or having
Sexual – a broad range of unwanted sexual unpaid bills.
behaviour. This can involve rape, indecent
assault, sexual harassment as well as using • Marked weight loss.
sexually offensive language.
• Changes in sleeping patterns.
Social – isolating you. Isolation can occur by
restricting or preventing social contact with How you can help
your family and friends as well as denying or
limiting social activities. Everyone can play a part in helping to
stop elder abuse in our community by:
Physical – deliberately causing physical pain
or injury. This type of abuse includes physical • Being aware that elder abuse comes in
coercion and physical restraint. many guises.

There are several factors that increase the risk • Understanding elder abuse can
of elder abuse. These include: happen anywhere in our community.

• Dependency – when an older person is • Listening to and supporting an older
dependent on others. person who is concerned or stressed
about their situation.
• Family dynamics and living arrangements
– unresolved issues, family conflict, spousal • Encouraging them to call the Advocare
violence. Elder Abuse Helpline on 1300 724 679
for advice and assistance from one of
• Social Isolation – which can take their advocates.
many forms.

• Health and cognitive impairment –
including physical and mental illness,
dementia and depression.

• Addictions – alcohol, prescription or illicit
drugs, or gambling addiction of the older
person or the abuser.

• Carer stress – this can lead to abuse.

• Ageism – Ageist stereotypes and
discrimination can lead to negative
attitudes and discriminatory practices.

11

New home care
calculator makes
budgeting simple

Wellness Southern Plus is helping home care clients package. The new calculator provides clients
to make the most of their home care with a simple snapshot of the cost of their
package, thanks to our new home care services so they know exactly how much is
budget calculator. being spent at any one time.

The easy to use calculator which is used by our “Importantly, we understand that our clients
Wellness Partners when meeting with clients, health and care needs are constantly
was developed in response to Southern Plus’ changing. Our Wellness Partners will work with
commitment to ensuring clients understand clients to co-design a services plan and budget
how their home care package is being spent. to meet their health needs. We will then leave
a copy of the budget with the client.”
Lindy Caporn, Southern Plus Head of Home
Care said the new calculator provided many If you need assistance with understanding
benefits for clients. your home care budget, talk to your Wellness
Partner or contact our advice line on
“We want to make sure that our clients are 1300 000 161 for assistance.
getting the most out of their home care

12

Tai Chi classes to begin SCC awarded Wellness
at Southern Plus Health training grant
and Wellness Centre
SCC’s staff will benefit from
The Southern Plus Health and Wellness Centre a $150,000 training grant
in East Fremantle will soon be expanding its recently awarded to SCC from
range of exercise classes to include Tai Chi. the Department of Training and
Workforce Development.
Tai Chi is a low-impact form of exercise that As part of the grant, SCC have
incorporates slow, gentle and tranquil movements partnered with North Metropolitan TAFE
for keeping your mind and body healthy. to provide training to Perth-based care
staff in the following skill sets:
Commonly recognised as one of the best
forms of exercise to increase balance, stability • Medication management
and to prevent falls, Tai Chi is also known
to improve relaxation and be beneficial for • Work health and Safety including
those living with arthritis, asthma, diabetes, Manual handling
Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
• Palliative Care
Esther Teh, Southern Plus East Fremantle Health
and Wellness Centre Coordinator encourages • Leadership and Mentoring
seniors to come and try the new Tai Chi classes.
• Introduction to Leisure and Health
“Our classes are based on the ‘Tai Chi for
Arthritis’ program which is based on Sun style John Hill, SCC’s Head of Human
Tai Chi, which has powerful healing abilities, Resources and Safety said the training
assisting arthritis sufferers in improving grant would ensure the organisation
muscular strength, flexibility and fitness. could provide even more opportunities
to staff to increase their skills and
“The great thing about Tai Chi is that it is very knowledge.
easy to learn and we will accommodate all
fitness levels, even those who have never tried “Over the past year, our Learning and
Tai Chi before or might be new to exercise,” Development team have been working
Esther said. hard to ensure we have a suitable range
of learning and training opportunities
If you would like to find out more information to meet the needs of our workforce.
about the Tai Chi class or any other services They will ensure they are meeting the
offered at Southern Plus Health and Wellness required competency levels for their
Centre, please contact 08 6424 7443. specific role and are up-to-date with
industry best practice information.

“Importantly, this is one more way that
SCC demonstrates it commitment to
ensuring our staff are equipped to
provide the highest standard of care to
all our clients and residents,” John said.

13

SCC staff shine
at WA Mental
Health Awards

News Shivani Lala, a Team Leader of SCC’s Vanessa Cullen, Consumer Consultant
with SCC’s Mental Health team, was also
Community Options Mental Health sites, nominated for the Consumer Impact
Inspiration Award, which recognises the
was recently recognised at the 2019 WA outstanding contribution to mental health
in Western Australia by an individual who
Mental Health Awards Gala winning the identifies as having a lived experience.

Employee Excellence Award for outstanding Tania Payne, SCC’s Manager for Mental Health
and Disability said the award was fantastic
contribution to mental health in Western recognition for Shivani and the wider SCC
Mental health team.
Australia by an individual employed or
“This award is well deserved recognition for
volunteering within the sector. the work that Shivani does within our mental
health programs. The award also raises
The WA Mental Health Awards, which are awareness of the great work that Southern
hosted by the Western Australian Association Cross Care is doing in the mental health
for Mental Health (WAAMH), recognises and space and the high calibre of our mental
rewards the achievements of those who health team.”
demonstrate excellence, innovation, and
initiative in supporting consumers of mental
health services, their families, and carers; and
showcase best practice in Western Australia’s
mental health sector to inspire others.

14

Residents recruit the best staff for the job

As part of SCC’s commitment to ensuring “We also had great feedback from News
candidates too, who thought it was a
residents have a say in the care that wonderful experience to interact directly
with the residents,” Emily said.
is provided to them, residents at SCC’s
John Hill, SCC’s Head of Human Resources
Frank Prendergast residential aged care and Safety said the recruitment team were
always looking at innovative ways of ensuring
home have helped out in the recruitment SCC is recruiting the best possible people
for the roles.
process of care staff for the organisation.
“For our residents, this is their home so we
Held at Frank Prendergast House, 28 think it is important to get them involved in
candidates were interviewed by SCC’s senior the decision-making process of who works
staff and a resident. As part of the process, there and provides their care.
residents were able to ask some of their
own questions, with many choosing to ask “When recruiting new staff, not only are
candidates about how they would respond to we looking for qualified and experienced
their own specific health and care needs. people, but also those who are committed
to the needs of our residents, and are happy
Emily Wood, Care Services Manager at Frank to uphold our values of respect, integrity,
Prendergast House said residents enjoyed the compassion and excellence. When residents
opportunity to speak directly to candidates and interview potential candidates, it provides
ask questions about their skills and experience. us with a unique insight into the suitability
of candidates and whether they would be a
“It gave us the opportunity to watch how the good fit for our organisation,” John said.
candidates interact with someone who is living
with dementia or chronic mental illness. I find
this gives us a good insight into their character
and can indicate their level of understanding of
person-centred care.

15

Volunteer profile –
Grateful Ali’s giving back
to his new community

By Ian Simms – Head of Volunteer Services
and Pastoral Care

Ali Keyvan

News Behind every portrait there is a story. accepted as a refugee in Australia. Ali chose
the legal (and quicker) route of applying for a
In the case of Ali Keyvan, one of SCC’s refugee visa, after fleeing to Turkey with Nega.
They arrived in Australia four years ago, feeling
volunteers, it’s a story of huge change scared but hopeful.

and a desire to find a new life in Australia. Although Ali could speak Farsi and Turkish, he
did not speak English, even if Nega could. He
Recently I sat down with Ali and listened to was helped by the Career Pathways Pilot for
Refugees Programme of At Work Australia.
his story. They helped him to enter TAFE where he
learned the language and completed a Cert III
Ali was born in southern Iran thirty-two years course in Individual Support. It was then that
ago. Even being part of a large family of four Southern Cross Care was approached to permit
brothers and one sister could not shield him Ali to volunteer with us. Volunteer Services,
from tragedy, and while still a youngster, he lost working with HR, set up the arrangement
one of his brothers and his father. The family whereby Ali now gives his time at Villa Pelletier,
pulled together and Ali took care of his ailing working alongside several residents who benefit
grandparents for many years while he worked immensely from his attention. Ali has a quiet
as a car-washer and later as a computer and patience, which is especially valuable in the case
printer salesman. of a resident who has proved difficult for other
volunteers to manage. Perhaps he learned the
Finding work was hard for this non-Muslim skill while caring for his grandparents all those
young man. Unlike Australia, jobs in Iran were years ago.
to be found based on your connections in the
community, and if you were in the minority During Ali and Nega’s stay in Australia they
your few connections became even more vital. have been blessed with the birth of a baby
But that first job in a computer store, provided daughter, Elena, who keeps them busy.
by his uncle, later became the occasion for a
rather happy meeting. A young lady, by the “I am so glad to be in Australia,” says Ali. “It is
name of Nega, came into the shop one day so clean and friendly and I am excited. I never
and Ali sensed an instant affinity. “She gave want to go back to Iran.”
me her telephone number on her purchasing
paperwork,” said Ali, with a twinkle in his eye. If you would like to be a part of our diverse
She would later become his wife and was able
to help Ali as they tried to set up their own team of volunteers, please contact Ian Simms
business together.
at [email protected], or on
But things were tough for them in the country
and it became necessary to think of leaving. 0419 095 041.
Ali’s brother left first and became one of the
infamous boat arrivals that ended up on
Christmas Island for many years before being

16

SCC celebrates volunteers’ contributions

In November, SCC hosted its annual Three long-service awards were presented at News
the event to John van Bockxmeer to celebrate
volunteer appreciation event at the Royal 15 years of volunteer service, while his wife
Jenny and Marie Neale celebrated 10 years of
Perth Golf Club to celebrate and recognise service. Along with their certificates of service,
they each received a long-service medallion
the achievements of our volunteers. crafted by the Perth Mint.

Ian Simms, Head of Pastoral Care and Other long-serving volunteers who were
Volunteer Services, said the event was a acknowledged but were unable to attend
wonderful opportunity to thank volunteers for included Veronica Moylan who celebrated
their generous contribution to the organisation. 15 years of service and David Kemp, Kathleen
Kennelly, Yvette Lyra, Veronica Martin and
“Our volunteers mean a great deal to us and Pamela Rathmann who celebrated 10 years
this event and the awards presented are of service.
just a small token of our gratitude towards
our volunteers. Without their assistance we If you would like to find out more about
wouldn’t be able to provide our clients with the
same great quality of care they receive.” volunteering with SCC, please contact

At the event, guests were treated to a Ian Simms at Volunteer Services at
scrumptious breakfast, accompanied by
wonderful musical performances by Lauren [email protected] or on
Fletcher and Jacob Ibrahim. SCC’s CEO
Errol Turner then thanked attendees for 0419 095 041.
their contributions to SCC and shared how
important volunteering is not only to SCC, but
also to the wider community. Fran West, a
volunteer at Jeremiah Donovan House, then
shared why she loves volunteering and why
others around her love it too. She mentioned
the therapeutic benefits it has had for her,
especially in helping her through personal grief.

17

Around our community

How our team helped Barbara achieve her goal
of independence

Southern Plus East Fremantle resident Barbara* “After her independent visit to the local café,
recently proved that with the right support and Barbara returned happy and is looking forward
planning, having dementia does not have to be to going out again,” Jessie said.
a barrier to still enjoy life.
Barbara’s son said the family were very happy
Fiercely independent, Barbara was unhappy that their mother could continue to enjoy her
that she was no longer able to go out by herself independence in a safe manner.
like she once did so the Southern Plus East
Fremantle team, with the support of Barbara’s “My mother has dementia and my siblings and
family, looked at how they could help Barbara I accept the risk that they could get confused
once again enjoy that level of independence. or lost while going for a walk. However, for her
happiness and independence, we agreed that it
Jessie Ho, Southern Plus East Fremantle is worth the risk.
Manager said she was delighted that the team
were able to help Barbara achieve her goal of “Southern Plus East Fremantle worked with us
going out on her own. to find a way to balance this risk with their duty
of care. It would have been easier for them to
“While we wanted to help Barbara achieve her play safe and just say no but we worked at it and
goal, it was also paramount that she was safe developed a risk plan. We actually developed,
at all times so our team put together a risk plan documented and signed the plan during the family
and a check list to ensure that all criteria is met conference and it was approved within a few days
before she leaves the facility. resulting in genuinely tailored care,” he said.

*(Name changed to protect privacy)

Peter’s U2 concert dream becomes reality

Community The Southern Plus South-West Peter said he had a wonderful
team were thrilled to be able night and was grateful for the
to help music enthusiast and support in getting him there.
home care client Peter, achieve
his goal of seeing the recent U2 “I have always loved live music
concert at Optus Stadium. and going to concerts, they
are one of my favourite band’s
Peter’s health issues required so it was fantastic to be able
some forward planning from his to do it again. Thanks to my
support worker to get him from support worker Sarah for
Busselton to Optus stadium, helping making it possible.”
firstly driving him in his specially
converted vehicle, then on and Peter and Sarah
off public transport.

18

Intervillage bowls Richard ‘Norm’ Eaton
tournament
Norm celebrates
Residents’ bowling skills were on display at Foley 100th birthday
Village in August and October at the intervillage
bowling tournaments. The competition was Congratulations to Southern Plus home
between Success and Foley Village. At the care client Richard ‘Norm’ Eaton who
conclusion of the bowling, attendees enjoyed recently celebrated his 100th birthday.
a delicious afternoon tea provided by Foley To mark the occasion, Norm enjoyed a
residents. Transport for Success Village residents big celebration with friends and family,
to Foley Village was provided by the SCC bus. including his nine children, 25 grandchildren
and 30 great grand children.
Roses in full bloom
at Faulkner Park One of 12 children, Norm was born and
raised on a farm in Goomaling. With the
The beautiful roses Great Depression hitting his family hard,
they were forced to sell their farm and
in the gardens move to Perth, where at age 14 Norm
began working on a milk cart. In 1939 at
at Faulkner Park the beginning of World War 2, he joined the
AIF, serving overseas in the Middle East and
Village have been Europe. Unfortunately, Norm was injured
and taken prisoner, spending four years in a
given a helping German prisoner of war camp in Poland.

hand thanks to the After the war, Norm married Marjorie in
1946 and they went on to raise their family,
generous donation initially living on a farm in Goomaling, and
then moving to a farm in Boyup Brook. In
by Gardening 1972 he and Majorie retired to Bunbury,
however he now lives with one of his sons.
supplier Yates.
Norm has been a member of the Knights
Having been Bev Kukura and Brandon Rogers of the Southern Cross for 70 years mostly Community
shown a photo in the BoyupBrook/Bridgetown/Manjimup
of the beautiful Branch until he moved to Bunbury. He is
also a Life Member of the RSL and active in
roses by Faulkner Park the Torch Bearers for Legacy and Probus.

Village Manager Bev Kukura, Yates offered Norm said the secret to his long and happy
life was simple. “I had a good wife and a
to provide a care package to help with the loving family. I am very close to all of my
children, grand children and great grand
upkeep of the roses. Brandon Rogers a children. Life is good when so many people
love you,” he said.
representative from Yates recently visited the
19
Village and presented the package to resident

and avid gardener Judy Johnson. Judy tends

to the roses lovingly at Faulkner Park, always

ensuring there are fresh roses in the reception

area whenever they are blooming.

CSeocmtimonunhietyading SCC Village Some of the highlights this year have been:
Bus update
• In May, Ascot Close and Wahroonga Village
SCC Village residents have residents enjoyed a stunning country drive
been making the most of the to the towns of Boddington and Dwellingup.
convenient SCC bus service, Morning tea was enjoyed in Boddington,
enjoying getting out and followed by a drive to the historic St Albans
about. Church in nearby Marradong and then
through the rolling hills and beautiful country
20 landscape to Dwellingup.

• In August and September, Foley Village
residents enjoyed a trip that started with
a scenic drive to Mundijong, morning tea
stop at in Serpentine, then onto Serpentine
Falls, Jarrahdale via Serpentine Dam then
a scenic drive to Byford for lunch. After
lunch they toured around Byford and took
a drive past the Byford Trotting Training
Complex. From there it was over to the
Champion Lakes Regatta Centre and then
homeward bound to Foley Village. A special
thankyou to Foley Village resident Norm,
who did a wonderful job in planning the trip,
also acting as bus co-pilot and navigator,
and providing attendees with interesting
information and history along the way.

• Residents from Thomas Perrott Village beautiful views of the ocean from Kwinana Community
and Margaret Hubery Village enjoyed a Beach through to Rockingham. Residents
combined outing in September to the spent a couple of hours there with a range
Kings Park Flower Festival and morning of restaurants and cafes to choose from
tea. Residents enjoyed walking around the and time for a relaxing stroll along the
breathtaking native Australian wildflower upgraded, tourist friendly foreshore and
gardens, a stunning sea of bright colours beach frontage.
from every angle, with the backdrop of our
beautiful Perth City and Swan River. This • In readiness for the Christmas season,
was followed by a delicious and relaxing in November Success Village residents
lunch in Innaloo. enjoyed an outing to Mrs Claus Christmas
Kingdom in Joondalup to stock up on
• In September, BF Prindiville Village residents Christmas decorations and to see the
enjoyed a trip to the Swan Valley. The outing stunning festive displays. Residents then
included a visit to the Maalinup Aboriginal took a coastal drive from Iluka Beach
Art Gallery, which had many lovely unique through to Sorrento Quay, Hillarys Boat
gifts that could be purchased in their gallery Harbour for lunch. A special mention
shop. From here they travelled a short to Success village resident Veronica
distance down the road to the Cottage who organises a range of interesting
Tea Rooms in Henley Brook where they and varied bus outings and activities
all enjoyed afternoon tea in the beautiful throughout the year for the residents.
outdoor cottage garden.
Over the coming months, the SCC buses will
• In October, Faulkner Park residents were be kept busy with the many excursions and
blessed with perfect weather for their outings happening across our villages - for
trip to the Rockingham foreshore, which more details, please speak to your village
included a scenic coastal drive with manager.

21

SCC Clients talent on display at
Mental Health Week Artshow

Community This year SCC was proud to once again This year, a number of the artwork by our
support Mental Health Week, which was held very talented SCC clients was on display at
on the 6th – 12th October. Mental Health Week the exhibition. With the artwork also available
is a national week celebrated each year to for sale, we were extremely proud to have
coincide with World Mental Health Day on the Western Australian Association for Mental
October 10th. This year, the theme of Mental Health (WAAMH) purchase SCC’s Community
Health Week was ‘community – mental health Options group artwork titled ‘Hear Us Roar’.
starts where we live, learn, work and play’. Additionally, several SCC clients also sold their
individual artwork.
One of the highlights of Mental Health Week
was the ‘Hello to Here’ Mental Health Art Tania Payne, SCC’s Manager for Mental Health
Exhibition, which was a collaboration between and Disability said SCC was delighted that so
The Arts & Mental Health Network and Western many of our clients were able to participate
Australian Association for Mental Health in the exhibition and have the opportunity to
(WAAMH) and showcases a collection by artists share their artwork with the wider community.
with lived experience of mental health.
“We are extremely proud of the artwork
that has been created by our clients. Art is a
very popular activity for many of them, as it
provides a safe, creative outlet to express and
communicate how they are feeling as they
continue on their journey of recovery from
mental illness,” Tania said.

22

Easy Christmas pudding

Ingredients Method Community
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup sultanas 1. For the pudding, empty the first six
• 1 cup self-raising flour cups and the nuts, if using, into a mixing
• 1 cup finely grated butter (about 115g) bowl with the spices, then stir in the milk
• 1 cup fresh brown breadcrumbs (from and egg. Once well combined, tip into a
buttered 1.5 litre pudding bowl.
around 4 thick slices of bread)
• 1 cup brown sugar 2. Cover with a double layer of buttered foil,
• 1 cup mixed nuts, chopped plus extra to making a pleat in the centre to allow the
pudding to rise. Tie the foil securely with
decorate string, then place in a steamer or large
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon pan containing enough gently simmering
• 1 tsp ground mixed spice water to come halfway up the sides of the
• 1 cup milk bowl. Steam, covered with a lid, for 2 and
• 1 large egg 1⁄2 hours. Check the water level during
• butter, for greasing cooking, topping up if necessary. If you are
preparing this pudding ahead, remove the
For the butterscotch sauce foil, let it cool slightly, then wrap in cling
• 85g butter film and then fresh foil. If you are serving
• 100g brown sugar it immediately, unwrap and invert onto a
• 200ml double cream deep plate.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
3. For the sauce, put everything in a pan and
bring slowly to the boil, stirring. Allow to
bubble away for 2-3 minutes, still stirring,
until the sugar has dissolved and the
sauce is pale caramel in colour and slightly
thickened. Remove from the heat. Pour the
sauce over the pudding and decorate with
the whole mixed nuts.

23

Retirement living at its best

Retirement is a new beginning to be enjoyed – One where you choose the way to live your life -

Retirement living at its bestand at Southern Cross Care we recognise this. In selecting one of our villages, you will be part of

a community that embraces independent living. You will be able to live an active healthy life that
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Vanisiatswpirwawtio.sncarlolifsesswtyale.o, sragf.eatuy,/sreectuirreitmy aenndt-pveilalacegeofsmind - right at your door step.

Success VViillllaaggee 22 11 Margareett HHuubbeerryy VViilllaaggee 32 21

2277 PPeeaarrssoonnDDrivreiv, eS,uSccuecscsess 3366FFififththAAvev,eR, oRsosmssomynoeyne

Success Village is situated in the bustling central Nestled in the beautiful, tranquil, riverside suburb
location of Success, and contains 136 units, with 5 of Rossmoyne, Margaret Hubery Village enjoys the
different designs of two and three-bedroom homes, beauty of surrounding Regional Parks. It is idyllic
beautifully designed and set amongst landscaped and the ideal location for retirees who enjoy being
gardens. The village is conveniently located to a outdoors and close to nature. The village offers 37
broad range of local amenities. units, with a range of both 2 and 3 bedroom layouts.
Four villas also have the added feature of built in lofts.
Villlaa51823fofrosraslea: l$e2: 9$92,09050,000

VViilllaa75fofor rsaslae:le$:5$4601,000,0000

Donovan Village 21 Faulkner Park 21
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21 22

D13o8nLoevwanisVRilolaagde, Fisonrreesstltefideladmongst natural bushland 8F4auClkonlleicrkPaSrtk, HEislttoante offers one or two bedroom units and
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medical facilities and shopping, Donovan Village is an hairdresser. There is also a Catholic Church adjacent

Vidiellaal r6etfiorermseanlet :o$p3ti4on5.,000 tVoiltlhae5c7omfoprlesxa. le: $319,000

Villa 53 for sale: $375,000 Villa 48 for sale: $530,000

Central Office T: 1300 669 189

Call Adam 0431 795 686 for more inform15aRtoiwone .AVveisniutew, Rwivwer.vsaclreoWssAw6a10.o3rg.au/rFe: t(i0r8e)m9e28n2t-9v9il9la9ges/

PO Box 76, Burswood WA 6100 [email protected]

15 Rowe Ave, Rivervale WA 6103 1300 669 189 www.scrosswa.org.au
PO Box 76, Burswood WA 6100 [email protected]
www.scrosswa.org.au