Southern Star Winter Edition, 2020

Southern Star

Helping seniors nd a better way to age

2020 Winter Edition

Our response to
COVID-19

Read more page 4

Looking after your
mental health and
wellbeing during
the COVID-19

Read more page 7

Protecting yourself
against the u

Read more page 12

Contents 4-6 A note from the CEO

HEALTH 7 Welcome to the rst edition
Our response to COVID-19 of Southern Star for 2020.
8-10
COVID-19: Looking after your 11 As we continue to respond to the COVID-19
mental health and wellbeing pandemic, I would like to take this opportunity
to update you on SCC’s ongoing commitment
Staying active in the comfort of to ensure the health and wellbeing of our
your own home residents, clients and staff.
Firstly, I would like to pay tribute to our
Southern Cross Housing update hardworking staff for their tireless efforts to
ensure that SCC can continue to support our
WELLNESS residents, clients and their families during this
Protecting yourself against the u 12 difficult time. I am extremely proud of the way
our entire organisation has responded and
VIP program delivers bene ts 13 adapted to this unprecedented event. The
for you dedication they have shown to protect the
community we serve is outstanding and I am
Recovery Plus – Supporting you 14 confident that we will continue to do so in the
after surgery weeks ahead.
We have established a dedicated COVID-19
Respite services supporting 15 response team who have implemented a
carers in their role broad range of measures across the entire
organisation. These include our home care
Dementia Services Team implements team calling each client before they visit,
innovative dementia care approach 16-17 residential care facilities implementing visitor
and admission restrictions, and our retirement
Medication management tips 18-19
for seniors

When fear rises up 20-21

Clear space, clear mind: 22
Health bene ts of decluttering

Eating healthy over winter 23

Cyber security – staying safe 24-25
when online

NEWS 26-27

SCC sign up to Australian 28
Retirement Village Accreditation 29
Scheme Standards

SCC launches new transport
service for village residents

Volunteer pro les

COMMUNITY 30-35
Around our community

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 speci ed otherwise.

Your safety is our primary focus

villages encouraging residents to stay at home, We will continue to monitor the data released CEO Message
along with visitor restrictions. each day to inform our actions.

I acknowledge how difficult these restrictions For further information about our response
will be for our residents and their loved ones, to COVID-19, please visit our website at
and thank them for working with us to protect www.scrosswa.org.au/coronavirusinfo or for
the health of the entire SCC community. During information about the Government's response
these times of uncertainty, we understand and tips and advice to protect yourself from
it is important that our residents remain COVID-19, visit the Department of Health
connected with family and friends. To help that website at www.health.gov.au
connection, SCC has introduced assisted video
calling via Skype across all of our residential I wish to thank every member of the SCC
care sites. community for your continued support and
hope that all of our residents and clients, along
To ensure our workforce is prepared, we with their families and loved ones, remain safe
provide all staff with daily COVID-19 updates and well during this difficult time.
and useful resources, based on information
received directly from the Department of Errol Turner,
Health. SCC has also invested in additional Chief Executive Officer
infection control and hand hygiene training
for all staff, and has introduced temperature Did you know that
checking of staff before they commence a Southern Star is
shift in our residential aged care sites. available electronically?

We have also engaged a medical provider If you would like to receive Southern
to ensure all of our staff in home care and Star via email please contact
residential care are vaccinated against influenza. [email protected]

3

Our response
to COVID-19

Health With the global emergence of COVID-19 • A speci c procedure for managing an
creating unprecedented challenges for outbreak of COVID-19 has been implemented
the aged care sector, SCC is committed and a training program has been created
to minimising the risk of exposure and to educate sta on the policy and COVID
to ensure the wellbeing of our residents, Outbreak Management strategies.
clients and sta .
• Infection control / hand hygiene / COVID-19
Led by our dedicated COVID-19 response team, training has been rolled out and made
we have implemented the following initiatives mandatory for all care sta (to reinforce
to ensure that the SCC group is well prepared existing training).
to continue providing quality care and services
to our clients and residents: • Gatherings (such as church, BBQs) have
ceased at all sites.
Organisation-wide
• Non-essential contractors, non-essential
• Regular communications are being volunteer services and non-essential visits by
sent to sta , based on information and SCC sta and service providers have ceased
updates being provided by the Australian at all SCC sites.
Government and WA Department of Health.
Residential care
• All sta , contractors and volunteers
who have recently travelled overseas or • Existing infection control policy, procedures
interstate must inform SCC and will be and measures at all residential care facilities
required to self-isolate for 14 days from the con rmed and strengthened. Additional PPE
date of return. (Personal Protective Equipment) ordered
including masks, hand gel, gowns, gloves, etc.
• Sta who are unwell with fever or
respiratory symptoms are required to stay • Regular communications sent to residents,
at home and seek medical advice. The SCC families and next of kin advising them of
Nurse Practitioner is available for sta to SCC’s response to COVID-19 in our residential
contact if needed. care facilities.

• SCC has engaged a cleaning contractor to
conduct High Touch Point (HTP) cleaning
across our residential facilities (in addition to
existing cleaning routines).

4

General visitor restrictions – • They have not been vaccinated against Health
Perth metropolitan sites in uenza.
To help protect the health and wellbeing of our
residents and sta , as of 6 May, the following • All other visitors must meet the following
visiting restrictions will be in place at all Perth requirements:
metropolitan SCC residential care sites:
• Have no fever or elevated body temperature
• Visiting times will be by appointment (a body temperature of less than 37.5 degrees
between the hours of 10am – 4pm, Monday, Celsius is required to enter the facility).
Wednesday and Sunday. Please contact
facilities directly to organise. • Have not returned from any travel (both
interstate and overseas) in the past 14 days.
• All visitors must comply with the following
requirements: • Have not knowingly been in contact with
a person who is suspected or con rmed
° Consent to their body temperature positive for COVID-19 or in uenza.
being taken by a non-contact infrared
thermometer. • Have not been caring for someone with a
respiratory illness.
° Following strict hand hygiene practices.
• Are aged 16 years or older (exceptions on
° Remain in the area designated by the compassionate grounds will be considered).
facility for visitations.
• Agree to con rm in writing they meet the
° Limit visiting to a maximum of two visitors requirements outlined above, and will comply
at one time per day. with the requirements of visiting which are
documented below.
° Limit visits to a maximum of 2 hours
length at any given time. General visitor restrictions –
Broome and Kalgoorlie
° Follow social distancing requirements. SCC has a no visitor policy at our residential
care sites in Broome and Kalgoorlie until
° Follow any instructions from sta during further notice. Exceptions will be on a case-
the visit. by-case basis at the discretion of the Site
Manager, primarily on compassionate grounds.
Visitors will not be permitted to enter a SCC If a visit is agreed, the visitor will be required to
facility if: sign in and also declare that they will comply
with all of the requirements listed above.
• They are unwell in any way, including having
symptoms of fever or respiratory infection
(cough, cold, sore throat, or shortness of
breath).

5

Flu vaccinations Residential care admissions

Under the direction of the Federal Government, Urgent admissions at our residential care sites
all sta and visitors to aged residential care will continue, however, restrictions are in place.
facilities from the 1 May 2020 must have SCC has special requirements around new
received the in uenza vaccination. Further admissions from hospitals, and new admissions
information will be provided to residents, from other locations will be required to isolate
and their loved ones regarding how this for 14 days when they rst arrive at the facility.
requirement will be implemented. These restrictions have been put in place to
protect all current residents and minimise the
Video calling with residents risk of COVID-19 being introduced to any of our
residential facilities.
As we continue with visitor restrictions in all of
our residential care sites, we understand it is Southern Plus Home Care Services
important that our residents remain connected
with family and friends. To help that connection, • Letters sent to all home care clients advising
SCC has implemented a video calling initiative them of precautions and asking them to
whereby family and friends can schedule inform Southern Plus if they are at a higher
assisted video calling, via Skype with residents. risk of having the virus (been overseas or
have had contact with a COVID-19 carrier).
Health
• Home Care sta to contact clients prior to
a visit (where appropriate and determined
on a case by case basis) to ask about any
possible client exposure to COVID-19.

• Phone calls made to all home care clients
to discuss their current situation and to
determine if they need additional home care
or support services.

• Sta are following infection control and
hand hygiene training as required.

If families and clients require extra services
and help during this time, please speak to your
Wellness Partner.

Retirement Villages

• Letters have been sent to all SCC retirement
village residents advising them of SCC’s
response to COVID-19.

• All village events that were to be held
in village community centres have been
cancelled.

• The strict social distancing requirements
put in place by the WA and Federal
Governments are being implemented
across all SCC ILU sites.

More information

For more information please visit www.
scrosswa.org.au/coronavirusinfo/

6

COVID-19: Looking
after your mental
health and wellbeing

COVID-19 is changing the way we live, work Managing your mental health while in HNeawlsth
and play. During this time it is even more self-isolation and quarantine
important to look after our wellbeing,
the wellbeing of our family and the wider There are a number of ways to support your
community. The following mental health and mental health during periods of self-isolation
wellbeing tips and strategies from Lifeline or quarantine:
and Beyond Blue, can help you through this
uncertain time. • Try to maintain physical activity.

Follow a ‘calm yet cautious’ approach • Avoid news and social media if you find it
Do your best to remain calm and be mindful distressing.
not to contribute to the widespread panic, as
this can hinder efforts to positively manage the • Stay connected with friends and family
outbreak. Ensure you are following directives via email, social media, video calling or
issued by the government, medical advice and telephone.
continue to observe good hygiene habits.
• Establish routines as best as possible and try
Stay connected to your values. Don’t let fear or to view this period as a new experience that
anxiety drive your interactions with others. We can bring health benefits.
are all in this together!
• Keep regular sleep routines and eat healthy
Find a healthy balance in relation to foods.
media coverage
Being exposed to large volumes of negative • Remind yourself that this is a temporary
information can heighten feelings of anxiety. period of isolation to slow the spread of the
While it’s important to stay informed, you may virus.
find it useful to limit your media intake if it is
upsetting to you or your family. • Remember that your effort is helping others
in the community avoid contracting the virus.
Access good quality information
It’s important to get accurate information from • Engage in healthy activities that you enjoy
credible sources such as those listed below: and find relaxing.
• Australian Government coronavirus
If there is someone you think may struggle
(COVID-19) health alert. through social isolation, it is important to reach
• Health Direct – Coronavirus (COVID-19). out to them and let them know you care:
• World Health Organization – Coronavirus
• Call them to check on their welfare.
disease (COVID-19) outbreak.
• Send an email.

• Leave a note under their door.

• Don’t underestimate the power you have to
offer hope to another person.

Where to go to for support?

It is extremely important to seek out help if you feel you need it. The following organisations
are available to provide mental health support and services:

Lifeline – www.lifeline.org.au or ph: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue – www.beyondblue.org.au or ph: 1300 22 4636

7

Health Staying active in the comfort of
your own home

By Matt Osman, Exercise Physiologist and Allied
Health Practice Manager at Southern Plus.

Maintaining physical activity, especially while we are
being asked to isolate in our homes, is incredibly
important for the health of our body and mind.

During this time of uncertainty, sustaining your typical
routine presents restrictions. The stroll you take through
the grocery store aisles is now being substituted for a
delivery to your doorstep and the exercise class you
attend twice a week has been cancelled inde nitely.
Fortunately, there are still plenty of ways to keep active
while remaining safe inside your home. Whatever your
health and wellness goal is there are four key types of
exercise to incorporate in your regimen: aerobic, strength,

exibility and balance-based exercises.

Aerobic exercise involves any physical activity that is
continuous in nature and increases our breathing and
heart rate. Going for a brisk walk is an e ective way
of incorporating aerobic activity into the day, whether
that is up and down the hallway, around the house or
the block. Alternatives to walking can include lifting your
knees and marching on the spot, stair climbing, or the
use of specialised exercise equipment for the home like
stationary bikes.

8

Strength exercises aim to improve the Flexibility exercise is important in keeping
capacity of our muscles to produce and the body supple. It is often one of the rst
control movement. You can exercise these recommendations I give to my clients when
muscles without requiring access to a gym their goals are to be more mobile, reduce
or heavy-duty equipment. Exercises as back pain and improve posture. The best
simple as a sit to stand or using control way to start is by moving a joint through
to lower yourself up and down a wall in a its full range of movement to identify your
squatting position will improve the strength trouble areas, this movement could involve
of leg muscles. To improve your upper body bending, twisting, lifting or pulling depending
strength, a pair of small hand weights or on the joint. Then focus the majority of your
tinned food items from the cupboard can be stretching time holding positions where you
used to complete various exercises. A simple
movement to try at home involves bending nd your muscles are feeling rigid or tight,
your elbows to lift the ‘weights’ to shoulder you will nd yourself gradually relaxing as you
height, then extending your arms to an hold the stretch.
overhead position and repeating.

HNeawlsth

9

Health Regular physical activity
helps improve mental
and physical health,
both of which will help
you maintain your
independence as you age.

Balance exercises are also important in an
exercise routine and not just for those who
are challenged by activities like walking. We
often nd that other daily activities can put our
balance to the test, gardening and cleaning
are common examples of this, due to being at
ground level which we then must stand up from.
Importantly, balance exercises don’t necessarily
require you to stand on one leg with your eyes
closed and attempt not to fall over.
Many aerobic and strength exercises involve
components of balance due to the dynamic
movement patterns. Some manageable static
balance exercises you could start with involve
standing with your feet at shoulder width apart
and introducing di erent movements of the
arms, eyes, head or torso. If you are feeling
con dent, you can progress to bringing the feet
together and attempting the same movements
or positioning the feet directly in front of one
another to really test your balance.
The Southern Plus Health and Wellness team
are here to support you achieve your wellbeing
goals and can provide an exercise starter pack
for use at home. The team deliver services in
our state-of-the-art facility in East Fremantle,
via video call/telephone (telehealth) and in
your home with our mobile services.

10

Southern Cross
Housing Update

By Sally Wright, Senior Property Manager, Community Housing

The safety of our Southern Cross Housing Heaters Health
clients is one of our highest priorities. As the
weather starts to get cooler and we look for No matter what type of heater you have,
ways to stay snug and warm at home, it’s check it every winter to make sure it is safe
important to be aware of any safety risks to to use. Check the electrical cables and make
ensure you and your home are protected. sure there are no exposed wires or loose
connections. Only use one appliance per power
Importantly, if you experience any issues with point and switch each off when not in use.
your electricity, such as an electric shock or a
‘tingle’, please contact your electricity provider Safety Tips
immediately or contact your SCH Property • Heaters should be placed on a flat, level
Manager.
surface.
Electric blankets
• Always supervise children and pets when
If you remove your electric blanket once the heaters are in use.
colder months are over always store it rolled up.
Inspect it before use and look for frayed fabric, • Remember to dust and clean your heater
exposed elements, damaged cords or scorch before turning it on as dust can ignite.
marks before using it again. If you notice any
damage to your electric blanket, throw it away. • Keep heaters at least 1 metre clear of
Damaged or faulty electric blankets can cause items that might burn i.e. clothes, bedding,
an electric shock or fire hazard. furniture and curtains.

Safety Tips • Always turn off your heater before you go
• Check before use each year – cords should to bed.

not be frayed and the blanket covering the Our response to COVID-19
wires should not be worn out.
• Don’t sleep with your electric blanket on - In response to the COVID-19, Southern Cross
warm the bed and then turn it off. Housing has implemented the following
• Never place heavy items on your bed when initiatives:
the electric blanket is turned on.
• To keep our clients and staff safe, until
Tips for tenants further notice we are not undertaking
any property inspections, but we are still
Don’t forget to let us know if you have any attending to maintenance issues. Please
water leaks - it’s important to get these note, if we have scheduled a maintenance
fixed to avoid a big water bill. visit to your property, we will contact you
before a SCH staff member or an external
tradesperson attends your property.

• We will not be increasing any rents for the
next 6 months.

We’re here to help

We’re here to help, so please contact us if you need assistance. To speak to your Property
Manager please call 1300 669 189 during normal business hours, and for all urgent and after
hours maintenance issues please call 1800 759 528.

11

Protecting
yourself against
the flu

Health In uenza, commonly known as u, is a Can I get the in uenza vaccine for free?
highly contagious disease caused by the
in uenza virus. According to the Western Yes. People aged 65 years and older are
Australia Department of Health, people eligible to receive free government-funded
aged 65 years and over are at higher risk in uenza vaccinations. Please note, while
of serious complications from in uenza the vaccine is free, you may be charged a
than other healthy adults and are strongly consultation fee. Check costs when making
recommended to get immunised against an appointment.
the in uenza every year.
SCC Flu Vaccination Program
When should I get the in uenza vaccine?
The Federal Government has mandated
For best protection against in uenza, people that from 1 May 2020, all aged care
aged 65 years and over are strongly advised workers and visitors in residential
to get the in uenza vaccine every year. aged care facilities are required to be
vaccinated for the u.
This year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic it is
advised to get the in uenza vaccine as soon In response, SCC has implemented a Flu
as it is available. Note, after vaccination it can Vaccination Program ensuring all residents
take up to two weeks to develop protection. and sta at all SCC residential care
facilities, as well as all Southern Plus home
Which in uenza vaccine is recommended care sta , have received a u vaccination.
for people aged 65 years and over? Central o ce sta were also encouraged
to have a u vaccination.
A vaccine is available that has been designed
for people aged 65 years and over. The All SCC ILU residents were also invited
vaccine increases the immune system’s to have a free u vaccination, with
response among older adults, who are known vaccination sessions with our Nurse
to have a weaker response to immunisation. Practitioner held conveniently onsite at the
The vaccine includes in uenza A (H3N2) which various ILU sites.
has the greatest impact on people aged over
65 years.

Where can people aged 65 years and
over get vaccinated? Is it available from
pharmacies?

The in uenza vaccine is available in
metropolitan and country WA from
immunisation providers including GP clinics,
community health clinics and Aboriginal
Medical Services.

A trial program currently allows pharmacies
to provide the free in uenza vaccine to
people aged 65 years and over. For further
information, contact your GP or immunisation
provider.

12

VIP Program delivers benefits for you

Our commitment to helping you enjoy the • Tri-annual Southern Star Magazine - Health
delivered by post or email based on client
best possible quality of life is at the heart preference.

of the Southern Cross Care and Southern • Complimentary Annual Flu Shot by a
Southern Plus Nurse Practitioner - services
Plus VIP Program. will be bulk billed through Medicare.

Focusing on delivering a broad range of • Access to health and wellbeing talks and
services to benefit your health and wellbeing, education events in SCC Villages.
the VIP Program offers the following:
• VIP Card – Handy wallet card with Village
• Concierge support from your Village Concierge Advice Line.
Manager - your Village Manager is the first
point of contact for all information and • Priority support to help clients access
assistance required to access care and residential care and respite care.
services. You may contact your Village
Manager on their mobile phone or office line The VIP program is available to current SCC ILU
during normal business hours. residents (owned and managed sites); Knights
of the Southern Cross (and their families); IAC
• Aged Care Advice Line - our team of experts and other religious affiliated organizations;
are available from 8am to 6pm weekdays to Current Southern Cross Housing clients.
answer your questions about aged care and For more information about the VIP
help you access home care services. Clients Program, please contact your Village
can access our Aged Care Advice Line on Manager or call 1300 100 161.
1300 000 161 for assistance.
13
• Recovery Plus Program - Reduce the risk of
returning to hospital by investing in some in-
home settling services. Your Village Manager
will assist you to receive complimentary
transport from hospital with Shofer. We
can also help discuss your needs with your
discharge nurse to ensure your outpatient
and medication supports are in place to
reduce the chance of re-admission.

Recovery Plus – Supporting you
after surgery

SWeecltlnioenssheading For clients who require health and When you sign up to the Recovery Plus
wellness services or a smooth recovery Package you will have peace of mind knowing
process after surgery, Southern Plus’ that there are no sign-up or assessment fees
convenient Recovery Plus package can and any unused hours can be saved.
help you while you get back on your feet.
Southern Plus’ Head of Home Care, Lindy
The six week program costs $285 per week and Caporn said the Recovery Plus package is a
includes a total 23 hours of services including: great solution for those who needed extra
support while they recover after a stay in
Once-o service including: hospital.
• Transport to and from hospital.
• Collection of prescriptions from the pharmacy. “The rst few weeks after a stay in hospital
• Free assessment and one supervised exercise can greatly impact how you recover after
surgery and your long-term quality of life. With
class at Southern Plus East Fremantle. additional support services for your health,
• Linen change. wellness and around your home, you can focus
• Recovery Plus Luxury overnight bag with on your recovery and get back to normal as
quickly as possible,” Lindy said.
toiletries.
For more information about the Recovery Plus
Ongoing services include: package please call 1300 000 161 or visit
• Meal preparation in the evening www.southernplus.org.au
• Home safety check
• Housekeeping/tidy up
• Domestic assistance & companionship
• Personal care
• GP Visit

14

Respite services supporting
carers in their role

Southern Plus respite centres provide “Our respite centres provide an essential service Wellness
valuable support for carers in addition to carers in the local community by providing
to the numerous bene ts for those being day or overnight respite on either a one-o or
cared for. regular basis,” Rachel said.

Southern Plus o ers a range of exible, day or Providing an enjoyable and relaxing
short respite options to suit carers and their atmosphere for clients, Rachel said the
loved one’s needs, either in-home, at one of our Southern Plus respite centres o er a broad
respite centres or short term respite in one of program of activities tailored to clients with
our residential care homes. dementia and special needs.

Rachel Fisher, Southern Plus Respite Manager “Our trained sta take the time to understand
said respite care provides a temporary break the needs and interests of the clients they
for carers, giving them the chance to attend care for and have developed a broad range
to everyday activities, work or go on a of activities that are designed to promote
planned break. cognitive stimulation and social connections.
Additionally, having our own bus ensures our
“We understand how tough it can be being clients can also enjoy regular social group
a full-time carer, and how important it is for outings in the local community,” Rachel said.
carers to have a much-needed break or time
away from their usual care responsibilities, to For more information about Southern Plus’
focus on their own health and wellbeing. respite services please call 1300 000 161 or
visit www.southernplus.org.au

15

Dementia Services Team implements
innovative dementia care approach

Wellness Living with dementia presents the “Despite being in different roles, both
challenge of continuously adjusting, parties feel similar emotions as they journey
whether it be to rapid behavioural changes, through the shared experience. The defining
emotional frustrations or skill loss. characteristic of dementia is that it is ever-
changing; and adaption of a fluid approach
The demands of the journey may sometimes is a necessity for the coping of both parties,”
be easy to overcome, yet at other times feel Rejane said.
insurmountable. While each person’s journey
is unique, SCC’s Dementia Services Manager, Rejane and SCC’s dedicated Dementia Services
Rejane Le Grange, said sharing your struggles Team ensure that SCC are at the cutting
with your support network can help to find edge of dementia care and are proud to be
solutions tailored to your situation. implementing the Positive Approach to Care
(PAC) across the organisation. An educational
“As dementia progresses, it is important to philosophy conceived by Occupational
identify the change in roles and responsibilities Therapist Teepa Snow, PAC is recognised
for the family members and the person with globally as a leading dementia care approach.
dementia, which can be overwhelming and It offers guidance to professional carers on
often accompanied by feelings of frustration, implementing an adaptable care approach
anger, isolation and loss. It can lead family that focuses on the skills that remain in the
members and the person living with dementia person with dementia, rather than what is lost.
to think ‘I don’t like how I am spending my Rejane is currently the only Australian that
time’, ‘I don’t like feeling short-tempered with is certified in three of the PAC domains - a
you’ and ‘I don’t like how I am behaving but I Trainer, Consultant and Coach.
can’t help it’.

16

For the person trying SCC dementia services and support SWeecltlnioenssheading
to support the person
with dementia through SCC's unique Dementia Services Team consists
the condition, a of multi-disciplinary members including a
VXSSRUW ĴJXUH FDQ EH mental health nurse practitioner, a registered
invaluable in listening nurse with many years of experience in
to your concerns, ... management and dementia care, and an
DQG SUDFWLVLQJ HijHFWLYH occupational therapist. The team aspires to
responses to reduce levels consider and appreciate clients’ personality
of distress. traits, learning preferences, availability, life
experiences, and understanding of dementia.
SCC’s Dementia Services Team work closely They are committed to improving awareness,
with the families to acknowledge that it is knowledge, skill and support for clients and
common to be confronted by moments carers to make a positive difference.
shrouded by a difficulty to cope and accept
the new relationship. The key to survival for SCC also offers a range of respite services
both parties is to have a support network to offer a break for carers. Additionally, the
that can promote an understanding Southern Plus Home Care team offers a
and appreciation through empathy and variety of services including respite, cooking,
perspective. For the person with dementia, a cleaning, nursing care and personal care to
support person can see things from their view, support both clients and carers.
help express emotions through words and
actions, as well as identifying new skills and Rejane urged carers and clients living with
responsibilities that can be accomplished. dementia to contact SCC and take advantage
of the many support services available to
For carers, a support figure can be invaluable those who need them.
in listening to your concerns, offering coping
strategies for the loss you are experiencing “Our highly trained and compassionate staff
and practising effective responses to reduce will do everything they can to implement
levels of distress. For some, support groups a tailored approach of care, however we
play a vital and very pivotal role to help understand that the hardest part is taking the
change what is not working well into success. first step" Rejand said.
SCC is looking forward to hosting a Forget-Me-
Not Café in East Fremantle, to provide a safe “Seeking support will change not only your
space for those living with dementia and their outlook on adapting to life with dementia
family to enjoy morning tea and meet others. changing the person you love, while allowing
There are also Alzheimer’s WA carer support you and your loved one to survive and thrive,”
groups, which might be the answer for you. she added.

17

Medication management tips for seniors

Wellness As you age, the risk of side e ects, • Have di culty removing medicines from
medicine interactions and other medicine your body.
problems increases. Thankfully, as shown
in the tips below from HealthDirect • Become more prone to side e ects and
Australia, you can take action to reduce medicine interactions.
these risks.
Your brain and nerves also change with age,
Why your risk increases as you age so problems like memory loss or poor eyesight
might start to a ect the practical aspects of
Your risk of problems with medicines increases taking medicines. For example, it is easier to
as you age for two main reasons – changes in accidentally take your medicine twice, or forget
your body and taking multiple medicines. to take it at all.

Changes in your body Multiple medicines

Your body changes in many ways as you age. You might have been prescribed a large
For example, how much water, fat and muscle number of medicines. If you take ve or more
you have changes. Some health conditions also medicines daily, you are twice as likely to have
create further changes in your body. Because side e ects than others. You are also far more
of such changes, you might: likely to be taking medicines that could interact
• Become more sensitive to the e ects of with each other. Taking multiple medicines
can also mean a greater chance of making
medicines. mistakes, because you have more medicines
• Not be able to process medicines properly. to manage which often need to be taken at
di erent times of the day or even week.

18

How to improve your medicine safety Ask for a medicines review

Ask questions If you take several medicines, ask your
doctor or pharmacist for a regular medicines
Your doctor might have already considered review. Medicines are ideally reviewed every
your age and increased risk of side e ects or six to twelve months. But you can ask for a
mistakes. But it’s worth asking some important medication review at any time, especially when
questions, such as: changes are made, including starting new or
• Why do I need to take this medicine? stopping medicines. Having an up-to-date
• Are there side e ects? medicines list also helps to make sure all of
• What should I do if I notice any side e ects or your medicines get reviewed.

symptoms? You may be able to have a Home Medicines
• Are there any precautions I need to take, such Review (HMR), where a pharmacist visits
you in your home. The review gives you the
as not driving? opportunity to ask the pharmacist about your
• Does this medication interact with my other medicines and how to manage them well. Your
doctor will use the results of your review to
medicines, both prescription and non- develop a medication management plan with
prescription? you. You will need a referral from a GP to have
• Do I need to have regular tests (e.g. blood, the review.
kidney and liver) to check how the medicine is
a ecting me? Talk to your pharmacist or medical professional
• Is there a way to reduce the number of
medicines I’m taking? If you’re taking a lot of medicines, talk to your
pharmacist. They might be able to make you a
Keep a medicines list pharmacy pack (also called a blister pack or a
Webster pack) that will help you take the right
You can use a medicines list to keep track of: medicines at the right time.
• What each medicine (prescription and
If you have any concerns, talk to your doctor,
non-prescription) is for. nurse practitioner or pharmacist. After
• What the dose of each medicine is. discussions, you might have the dose changed
• When and how to use each medicine. or even the medicine changed. It is important
You can keep a medicine list in two ways: that you don’t suddenly stop taking your
• Using the MedicineWise smart phone app, medicines.

so your medicine list is always with you in Southern Plus Nurse Practitioner Nicole
your phone. Harwood said it is important to manage your
• Writing a medicines list on a piece of paper medications as you get older, to avoid any
and keeping it with you in your wallet or unnecessary side e ects and health issues.
handbag.
“I encourage all of my patients to review their
medications on a regular basis. It’s important WNeewllns ess
that people know the reasons they are taking
a medication and some of the side e ects
to watch out for. With a good medication
management plan in place, you are more likely
to enjoy a better quality of life,” Nicole said.

19

Wellness When fear Our biggest fear
rises up
It got me thinking about fear these days. Our
By Ian Simms, Head biggest fear at the moment is the impact of
of Pastoral Care and the coronavirus. What will it do to me and
Volunteer Services what will it mean for my family and for our
society? Every time you turn on the TV, there
I found a list of phobias the other are more reports of increasing shutdowns
day. Phobias are things we fear aimed at stemming the rising infections. It is
and the list was rather long. I easy to lose perspective and allow anxiety to
did not realise that there could overwhelm us.
be so much to worry about. I
almost felt cheated that I had so Fear robs us
little to bother me. Nomophobia, We all have fears of one sort or another.
the list said, is the fear of being Healthy fear keeps us from taking a corner
without your mobile phone! too fast in the car, in case we have an
Really? Who would have thought accident. That’s all good, but we don’t want to
there could be people who would live and work in fear. Make no mistake, fear
not want to throw their device can deprive us of so much. Fear robs us of
in the Swan River just to have a focus and commitment, for how can we get
break? Optophobia is the fear of on with a task if we are constantly distracted
opening your eyes, which you had by thoughts of threat? Fear cheats us out of
better not develop while driving positive social contact, because we fear what
your car, otherwise playing with people might bring with them that we cannot
your mobile phone near the Swan handle. It strips us of creativity in preference
River might be the least of your for the safe, tired option. And fear, over many
tra c violation worries. years, can impact our health and wellbeing
negatively, as our bodies remain on high
20 alert for too long to face a threat that never
comes. Clearly fear does not always help us.

Making fear work for us
But what if we made fear work for us, instead
of against us? Fears tell us things, if we
are prepared to listen. Fear points to our
vulnerability and says I should be in control.1

1 Welch, Edward. 2008. Running scared: Fear, worry and
the God of rest. Greensboro: New Growth, p.161.

The reality, of course, is that we are dependent things are just around the corner. Think back WNeewllns ess
on others in our families, in the workplace and over your life. How many of the things we
in society. For those who relate to God, there is feared have ever come true? Very few.
the further realization that we are dependent
on God, so fear becomes an opportunity to Also, fear can be the very impetus to action.
trust God. If we want comfort, we will fear When fear is so pervasive, as it is at the
pain. If we want approval, we will fear criticism. moment, this is precisely the time to reach
If we want money, we will fear need. Worry out to others to reassure them that they are
reveals our allegiances. Fear and worry are not not alone. In fact, we are in this together. I
mere emotions; they are expressions of what was so impressed with a young mother in
we hold dear, says Edward Welch. Once we our church who stood up during one of our
identify what we fear, we have the chance to gatherings and invited anyone, especially
understand why we fear it. the elderly, to call her if they needed anyone
to go and do some shopping for them. Love
But fear is also an invitation to partnership,
rather than isolation. It increases our longing nds a way to overcome fear and reach out
for togetherness. The psalmist understood this de antly to say, “This thing will not beat us!”
issue very well when he wrote (sang, actually)
the well-known Psalm 23: “Even though I walk Finally, fear is often an indication that
through the valley of the shadow of death, I something important is available. A speaker
will fear no evil, for you [God] are with me.” once used this magni cent illustration: “A
Fear is eased when we can share the concerns wise bird knows that a scarecrow is simply
we have with another person. an advertisement. It announces that some
very juicy and delicious fruit is to be had
Fear has this irritating habit of sounding for the picking. There are scarecrows in all
so convincing, doesn’t it? There will not be the best gardens...If I am wise, I too shall
enough food in the supermarket when the treat the scarecrow as though it were an
lockdown happens, we think. But how do we invitation. Every giant in the way which
know? Food is still growing, people are still makes me feel like a grasshopper is only a
working , trucks are still driving, and the shops scarecrow beckoning me to God’s richest
are still open. Yes, there are the crazies who blessings.” He concluded, “Faith is a bird
insist on panic-buying, but when their house which loves to perch on scarecrows.”2
is bursting with toilet paper, there will still be
more coming. I guess I’m trying to say that it So there is fear aplenty. Okay, but there
is good to have a healthy dose of scepticism is also faith and love and hope, and these
when fear tries to convince us that terrible three tend to be amazingly empowering
whenever fear rises up.

2 Our Daily Bread, 6 April 1995.

21

Clear space, clear mind:
+HDOWK EHQHĴWV RI GHFOXWWHULQJ

SWeecltlnioenssheading Having a clean and tidy home, free of any Creates con dence and sense of
clutter not only looks good, but according to achievement
research, can have a positive impact on your While having a clean home certainly makes
health and mood too. you feel more comfortable inviting guests over,
it can also give you a sense of achievement.
Below are some of the health bene ts of Because you’re using decision-making skills, by
decluttering your home: choosing what to get rid of and what to keep,
you’re reminding yourself of your ability to get
Reduce anxiety things done and complete tasks.
When things feel out of order, it can make us
feel scattered and anxious. Cluttered space is Energising
chaos for the mind. Getting rid of unnecessary With less stu weighing you down, you’ll have
clutter can instantly calm down the nervous a renewed sense of energy. Once you get
system and reduce anxiety. The key is to take started, you’ll nd that you’re more motivated
things slowly, to avoid becoming overwhelmed to tackle jobs you’ve been putting o or start
and causing anxiety levels to rise. ticking other things o your to-do list. It’s the
domino e ect!
Improves sleep
There is research to suggest that clutter in Need help with cleaning or decluttering
our homes can prevent our body’s cortisol your home? Southern Plus can help!
levels from naturally declining throughout Our specialist team can help you keep
the day, disrupting our sleep cycle. Our brain on top of all your jobs around the home,
interprets visual stimuli as tasks that need everything from cleaning and tidying
to be completed, so when we see clutter – through to in-home repairs. For more
whether consciously or unconsciously – it information please call 1300 000 161 or visit
causes cortisol levels to rise. Removing the www.southernplus.org.au
clutter changes the brains response and helps
you get an unbroken sleep. Source: www.startsat60.com

Boost productivity and creativity
There’s an old saying that a clear space means
a clear mind. When we declutter, we open up
space to get more done, to feel more focused,
and creative.

22

Eating healthy over winter

As the weather starts to get cooler, it is tempting to turn to comfort food that may
not be good for you. This winter, embrace these healthy eating tips from The Heart
Foundation, which when combined with regular exercise will support your health and
wellbeing during the cooler months.

1. Enjoy winter seasonal vegetables and fruit 3. Stews, casseroles and leftovers
Grapefruit, kiwifruit, mandarins and oranges A great winter warmer! Make your casseroles
are all delicious and in season over winter. Try and stews with lots of vegetables to boost your
involving fruit in your breakfast if you’re not meals with heart healthy foods. When cooking
already, and add an extra serve of vegetables to stews and casseroles remember to trim fat o
each main meal. Broccoli, carrots and cauli ower meat before cooking and add kidney beans,
are great winter vegetables, particularly for chickpeas, soybeans or lentils for bre, and use
soups. While fresh is best, don’t be afraid to reduced salt stock. Making extra means lunch is
stock the freezer up with cheap and easy sorted too. For winter desserts, stew some fruit
additions to any meal. and save some for breakfast for the next day.

2. Take time for tea 4. Perfect your portions
Drinking tea dates back to ancient China, and in Winter is a great time to re-think the size
recent years the spotlight has been on its health of your meal, especially with foods such as
bene ts. Black and green teas are rich in plant rice, pasta and potatoes, which are delicious
chemicals, some of which are called avonoids, but can be easy to over-serve. Choosing a
which have antioxidant e ects. In studies of healthy amount for you can help to manage
people who drink tea regularly, their blood your weight, and free up space on your plate
vessels were healthier and their risk of heart for more vegetables! Try using smaller plates
disease lower. Of course, many people who drink when dishing up and waiting 20 minutes before
tea do other healthy things too, like eating more heading back for seconds.
vegetables and doing more exercise so it can be
hard to pinpoint the e ect to tea-drinking alone. Wellness
But why not take on all of these healthy things
this winter: more vegetables, taking time to enjoy
tea, and going for a walk every day.

Source: www.domain.com.au

23

Cyber security
– staying safe
when online

SWeecltlnioenssheading For most of us, the internet opens up Create strong passphrases to be secure
new opportunities. We can shop, bank,
research, work and connect when In the same way as you apply sunscreen to
and where we want to. Unfortunately protect your skin, you need to protect yourself
the online world also gives criminals when online. You should use passphrases
opportunities to steal money, information for this purpose. Put simply, passphrases are
or identities. a series of words that are longer, easier to
remember and harder to guess than traditional
So how do we reduce our risk of falling victim passwords. Many businesses and organisations
to online crimes? The tips below from The are making available two-factor or multi-factor
Australian Government’s ‘Stay Smart Online’ authentication to help people become more
initiative provides information and services to secure. Instead of using just a username and
help you stay safe online. password to log in to an account (a username
and password are typically regarded as one
Be wary of what you share factor), you have to provide two factors such
Digital and online technologies are as something you know (like a password) and
transforming our lives, enabling us to connect something you have (like a one-time code sent
and complete tasks more easily, when and to your mobile phone) - to gain access.
where we want to. However, many of the
things we do online - banking, shopping, Treat any unexpected message with caution
chatting with family and friends - involve us
giving out personal and nancial information. Accessing government services and
For example, if you use social media, read organisations online has enabled people to
and understand any terms and conditions, save time and e ort. However, criminals are
particularly those relating to your personal seeking to exploit these relationships to steal
information, and be aware of what you share. money and personal information. A common
Remember photos or information can be method of doing so is to use phishing scams.
hard to remove once posted. Be careful about These scams attempt to trick you into giving
sharing information that could compromise out information such as your bank account
your security such as date of birth or your numbers, passwords/ phrases and credit card
address. The less information you make numbers. Phishing messages may include logos,
accessible publicly online, the lower the risk of disclaimers and other features from the business
identity theft. the message claims to be from. When you
receive an email, consider who is emailing you
24 and what they are asking you to do. If you are
unsure, call the business a suspicious message
claims to be from using contact details obtained
from a website or other legitimate source.

Be careful about sharing
information that could
compromise your security such
as date of birth or your address.

Keep to trusted websites Stay secure while on the move Wellness
People today can use mobile devices to
Exploring the internet is a hugely enjoyable connect, shop, research and complete other
activity for many people. However, this tasks any time from any location. However,
enjoyment may be spoiled if you visit a mobile devices like smartphones and tablets
compromised web page which can install are small portable computers. Just like your
unwanted downloads on your computer or computer at home they can be hacked,
mobile device. Minimise visits to unknown infected with a virus and, if unsecured, provide
websites and avoid being enticed by the access to your personal information. To avoid
promise of sensational content through this, turn on the security features of the device,
‘clickbait’. Look for the padlock symbol and and ensure a password/phrase or PIN must be
‘https’ in the browser address bar when entered to unlock the device.
visiting sites.
Keep everyone safe by reporting scams
Keep nancial details from prying eyes There are several government departments
and agencies working to keep you safe online:
Banking online is an easy and convenient
activity. To ensure your nancial details are • If you have been a victim of a cybercrime
safe, access your bank’s website by typing such as fraud, report it to the Australian Cyber
the address directly into your browser. Keep Security Centre’s ReportCyber.
your computer up-to-date with anti-virus, www.cyber.gov.au/report
anti-spyware and rewall software. Use
the security measures (such as two-factor • The Australian Competition and Consumer
authentication) recommended by your bank Commission operates Scamwatch, a service
and always log out of the internet banking that enables you to report scams.
menu and close your browser when you www.scamwatch.gov.au/report-a-scam
have completed a session. When shopping
online be wary of websites that you have • If you believe you have experienced identity
not visited before or that look suspicious or theft, iDcare - Australia and New Zealand’s
unprofessional. Only deal with trusted and national identity support service - o ers
reliable online retailers. personalised support to individuals who are
concerned about their personal information.
iDcare can be contacted on ph:1300 432 273.

25

News SCC sign up The standards are a new single, unified scheme
to Australian for the industry, which were developed by the
Retirement Property Council of Australia and Leading
Village Age Services Australia (LASA) in consultation
Accreditation with resident groups, operators and the
Scheme general public. Importantly, the new standards
Standards reflect the different elements of a resident’s
experience within a retirement village, and the
As part of our commitment evolving service offering within communities.
to providing the best possible
experience for all ILU residents, The ARVAS Standards comprise seven quality
over the coming months SCC will areas:
be undertaking accreditation
as part of the new Australian • Community Management
Retirement Village Accreditation
Scheme Standards (ARVAS). • Human Resource Management

26 • Resident Entry and Exit

• Resident Engagement and Feedback

• Environment, Services and Facilities

• Safety and Security

• Resident Care

As part of the accreditation, SCC will also
adopt the ‘Retirement Living Code of Conduct’.
The Code, an initiative of the Retirement
Living Council (RLC) and LASA, seeks to create
an accepted standard to help operators
provide a trustworthy and high-quality
service to those living in, and considering

moving to, a retirement community. In 2020 Village Resident News
particular the Code is focused on the Satisfaction Survey -
wellbeing of residents, through fairness in Your opinion matters
marketing and sales practices; maintaining
good relationships with residents and All ILU residents have been invited to
stakeholders; specific processes when take part in our 2020 Village Resident
residents move out; and improving the Satisfaction Survey.
handling of complaints and reaching How are we doing? How can we
resolution in disputes. continue to improve our services
to you? This important survey will
Ken Pantany, SCC’s Head of Retirement be used to recognise our strengths,
Villages said the accreditation and Code of highlight recommendations, and
Conduct would provide peace of mind for ful l our registration requirements
residents that SCC sites will meet industry for The Australian Code of Conduct
best practice standards. and the Australian Retirement Village
Accreditation Standards.
“Ensuring that we are fully accredited Your responses will be 100% anonymous
under ARVAS is just one more way that and the data and recommendations will
we are demonstrating our commitment to be prepared by an independent market
delivering first class facilities and service to and social research agency.
our residents,” Ken said. Your opinion matters to us, and we look
forward to you taking part in the survey.
Very soon your Village Manager will be
running information sessions about ARVAS 27
and the Retirement Living Code of Conduct.
In the meantime, please speak to your
Village Manager if you have any queries
about the program.

SCC launches new
transport service for
village residents

News SCC have recently introduced a preferred • Call the Shofer contact centre on 08 6110 8288.

partner arrangement with leading Perth • Book online via the Shofer website.

transport provider ‘Shofer’, ensuring ILU • Via email - [email protected]

residents can now take advantage of a How much does the service cost?

convenient and affordable transport service. Shofer offers fixed pricing, so you’ll know the
cost of your trip before you get into the car.
In Western Australia, once you reach the age Costs of the transport is payable to Shofer
of 85, you may need to undergo an annual directly where you use a smart phone or tablet.
Practical Driving Assessment (PDA) before you Alternatively you can ask your Village Manager
can renew your driver’s licence. There may to book your trip and we can bill the service with
be a significant impact for people who are your monthly account.
no longer able to drive. You may be happy
to catch the bus, however if public transport Ken Pantany, Head of Retirement Villages said
is not a viable option near your home and the preferred transport provider arrangement
village, then Shofer may be a service you wish is a safe, secure and affordable option for
to consider. personalised transport services.

SCC chose Schofer as a preferred transport “We understand that while many residents no
provider because of the broad range of features longer chose to drive, they still need secure,
their service provides senior clients, including: reliable and affordable transport options to get
them to where they need to go.
• Highly experienced drivers with training in
transporting seniors and those with mobility “Whether you need to attend an appointment,
issues. want to go shopping or visit a friend, our
convenient new transport service through
• They can help you in and out of the car, Shofer can make sure you get there safely and
bring in your shopping and escort you to economically,” Ken said.
appointments.
For more information or if you would like to
• In car security cameras to ensure the safety book transport with Shofer, please speak to
of passengers at all times. your Village Manager.

• The choice of male or female drivers.

• Where possible, the same drivers will be
allocated to clients who have a regular
booking.

How can residents access Shofer?

Accessing the service is easy and can be done
through one of the following ways:

• Speak to your Village Manager who will book
the trip for you.

• Download the Shofer booking app to your
smartphone or tablet.

28

Meet our volunteers

SCC is very fortunate to have nearly 200 volunteers who provide support and
companionship to our residents and clients. We hope you enjoy getting to know some
of our volunteers that we will pro le in Southern Star.

Meet Sara Meet Alice

“My mum was “When I stopped full-time work, I wanted
a resident to stay connected but wasn't sure what
at Jeramiah I wanted to do, as my mum had passed
Donovan away and I had the task of managing her
House (JDH) estate. I was looking at part-time jobs when
- D House I stumbled across the volunteer website and
from August noticed ads for pet therapy volunteers, and
2016 until I knew my dog would be perfect.
she passed,
peacefully We ended up with the wonderful sta at
with the Joseph Donovan House and Sahbee and
utmost love I have been visiting every fortnight since
and care from JDH nurses and carers, in May 2014. The sta are extremely supportive and
2018. While I was a regular visitor and active in most of the residents love Sahbee and look
mum’s care, my overriding impression was of the forward to her visits. Sahbee loves people
love and commitment of the JDH community in and is very intuitive to their needs. Over the
supporting mum through the nal stage of her past six years, she has made a lot of very
life, even despite the obvious time and sta ng special friends and brought many smiles to
pressures. This inspired me to give back in a the resident’s faces.
very small way - also a means by which to stay
connected with a community I now consider to I remember one lady who when she saw
be my family. Sahbee coming would yell out excitedly to
everyone "Here comes the dog!”
My availability to volunteer has waxed and
waned, but when I have been available I have Visiting JDH is very rewarding and really
enjoyed assisting residents on bus outings warms my heart to see peoples faces light
(how important to connect with the ‘outside’ up when Sahbee walks in the room. It is
world, even If only from a bus window); enabling great to see so many people interacting
attendance at group activities and concerts; with her, smiling, patting and chatting away.”
connecting with nature in the courtyard or
via a short stroll around the village; or simply News
sitting with someone and talking, or sharing
a companiable silence. In these challenging
times, the value of companionship is ever more
evident.

Special love to the very precious residents of
D House, and everyone missing the physical
contact of their loved ones - whether resident,
partner, family or friend. I miss you too - virtual
hugs, Sara xx”

If you would like to nd out more about volunteering opportunities with
Southern Cross Care please contact [email protected]

29

Around our community

Residents get behind new recycling initiative

Community In response to feedback from residents An additional benefit of the strong
commitment to recycling in the villages has
and as part of SCC’s commitment to been the collection of plastic bottle lids in
support of the ‘Lids for Kids’ initiative, which
reduce our environmental footprint, the recycles the plastic lids to make prosthetic
limbs for disabled children using 3D technology.
SCC Asset and Infrastructure (A&I) team
Ken Pantany, Head of Retirement Villages is
have introduced recycling stations at delighted that residents have supported this
important initiative.
villages to assist with the collection of
“We recognise that many of our residents are
recyclables that would otherwise have passionate about the environment, so this
initiative is just one more way that we as a
gone to land ll. community can demonstrate our commitment
to reducing our environmental footprint.
As part of the introduction of the new stations,
the A&I team held education sessions at the “I would like to thank the SCC Asset and
villages. Following these sessions, The A&I team Infrastructure team and Village Committees
were pleased to report that there had been for making this initiative possible,” Ken said.
a noticeable improvement in recycling efforts
among residents, with batteries, e-waste and
polystyrene being the most popular items that
are being recycled.

30

Victoria Park stay
connected to the
local community

While SCC’s Victoria Park Nursing Home Park activities team put a call out to the local
and Hostel in Kalgoorlie may be restricting community for pen pal’s for their residents.
visitors to their site during the Coronovirus They received a fantastic response with more
pandemic, sta are ensuring residents are than 150 people volunteering to write letters to
staying connected to the local community. residents.

As part of the wider community initiative called Cheryl Hahn, Victoria Park Manager said the
‘follow the rainbow to health and care’ SCC pen pal initiative had been a great success.
have put the colours of the rainbow up on
the fence and some residents have coloured “The residents love receiving the letters and
in rainbows that staff have also placed on our staff help them write a letter back to their
the fence. It is hoped that the bright colourful pen pal, which is really nice. We hope to keep
rainbows will give hope to the local community this going for as long as possible,” Cheryl said.
during this difficult time.

To keep residents spirits up and to keep them
connected to the local community, Victoria

Community

31

Around our community

Alastair’s 80th
birthday celebration

Success Village celebrated the 80th Birthday Alastair is an avid reader with a strong interest
of Alastair Adam on 21 March, with 50 of his in worldwide history. If you are looking for a
nearest and dearest. Alastair and his wife, book recommendation, Alastair says ‘The Last
Pat, have been residents at Success Village Kingdom’ by Bernard Cornwell is a must-read
for 7 years and are sociable members of the for all those with an interest in history. Happy
community. 80th Birthday Alastair!

Alastair was incredibly pleased with his party,
“it was great to see so many of my friends
and family there”. Alastair’s daughter, Tracy,
gave a wonderful speech about Alastair’s
childhood, and the adventures of growing up
in a household being 1 of 5 children during the
Second World War. She spoke about his time in
the British Army for 5 years, over the period of
1957-1962, a turbulent time.

Community Roses in full bloom at
Faulkner Park

The beautiful roses in the gardens at Faulkner Park
Village have been given a helping hand thanks to the
generous donation by gardening supplier Yates.

Having been shown a photo of the beautiful roses
by Faulkner Park Village Manager Bev Kukura,
Yates offered to provide a care package to help
with the upkeep of the roses. Brandon Rogers, a
representative from Yates, recently visited the Village
and presented the package to resident and avid
gardener Judy Johnson (pictured left). Judy tends to
the roses lovingly at Faulkner Park, always ensuring
there are fresh roses in the reception area whenever
they are blooming.

32

Foley Faulkner Community
Village Park residents dig
enjoys visit GHHS IRU EXVKĴUH DSSHDO
from local
preschoolers On Wednesday 22 January 2020, the Faulkner Park Residents’
Association held a special morning tea to raise funds for
As part of a joint initiative the Bushfire Appeal, raising a mammoth sum of $2,500. The
between Foley Village committee members were baking up a storm, making some
and a local preschool, wonderful cakes for the morning tea. All the residents who
residents enjoyed a fun attended were very proud and delighted with their efforts.
afternoon of arts and
crafts with children from Intervillage bowls tournament
the preschool.
Success and Foley Village residents’ bowling skills and
The idea behind the competitive spirit has been on display at the recent intervillage
initiative is to give the bowling tournaments held at Foley Village. At the conclusion
children the opportunity of the bowling, attendees enjoyed a delicious afternoon tea
to meet some seniors provided by Foley residents. Transport for Success Village
in their local community residents to Foley Village was provided by the SCC bus.
and to encourage
residents to socialise. 33

Leah Gray, Foley Village
Business Manager said
the initiative has been
very well received by
residents.

“We held two classes
in January with great
feedback from both
groups. The kids walk
over to the Village
(which is exciting enough
in itself!) and join the
residents in the craft
room for an hour of
fun activities including
making pasta jewellery
and Australian flora
and fauna craft, which
everyone thoroughly
enjoyed,” Leah said.

Around our community

Thomas Perrot Village for the WA Technical Education Division on
remembers a talented and maritime studies for 20 years.
valued resident
In his spare time, Ernest enjoyed golf, reading
Recently, in the West Australian newspaper, and music. Regarded by many as a “jolly good
Vivian Forbes paid tribute to her father-in- fellow”, Ernest brought a smile to everyone
law Ernest Proudfoot, a resident of Thomas that knew him and will be fondly remembered
Perrot Village until his passing on 22 November by his family, friends and the Thomas Perrot
2019. Affectionately nicknamed ‘Puggie’ by his Village community.
friends, Ernest was well known for his genuine
heart, hilarious jokes and stories about his life
as a cartographer, hydrographer and mariner.

Born in Pune, India in 1924, Ernest joined
the Royal Indian Navy while a teenager and
became recognised for his skill in hydrography
and mapping, leading to further training before
ascending to command roles. Following his
retirement from the Indian Navy in 1965, Ernest
migrated to Australia with his hydrography
expertise to work for the State Government of
WA. Leaving that role in 1989, Ernest lectured

Community Care Packages at Faulkner
Park Estate

As Coronavirus becomes present in the wider
community, our residents have been encouraged
to stay at home to reduce the risk of infection.
Despite it being a particularly turbulent time
for many small businesses, there are some
very generous companies that still extend the
hand of kindness, such as Party Boat Charters
which delivered care packages to residents at
Faulkner Park Retirement Village. Each package
contained a toilet roll, hand sanitiser, chocolates,
wipes and a card that read; “Looking after each
other, be strong now because it will get better.
It may be stormy but the rain can't last forever."
The residents were so incredibly touched by this
lovely gesture, thank you Party Boat Charters,
your kindness is very much appreciated.

34

Faulkner Park gardens get Mental Health Community
makeover thanks to Bunnings art project

The gardens at Faulkner Park are looking particularly Following the success of
lovely thanks to a visit from Madison and Sandy from the art exhibition that was
Bunnings Belmont and Malaga who upgraded some held during Mental Health
garden areas in the village, as part of the Bunnings Week, a SCC staff member
Community Project Scheme. commissioned an art piece
from the talented residents
In addition to Madison and Sandy’s hard work at Community Options. The
planting, mulching and installing garden edging, residents were very excited
Bunnings also generously donated all of the plants, to undertake the project, and
mulch, compost and edging. completed a beautiful piece
of art for the staff member.
The Mental Health team are
consulting with the resident
artists about how they would
like to spend the money that
was paid for the painting.

35

Retirement living at its best

Retirement is a new beginning to be enjoyed – One where you choose the way to live your life.
At Southern Cross Care we recognise this. We don’t build retirement villages - we create communities,
bringing like-minded people together to continue to live an independent life full of choice and freedom.
In selecting one of our villages, you will be part of a community that enhances choice. You will be able
to live an active and healthy life that o ers an aspirational lifestyle, safety, security and peace of mind -
right at your doorstep.

Success Village 2 11 Margaret Hubery 2 11

Villa 65/27 Pearson Drive, Success 15/36 Fifth Avenue, Rossmoyne

This beautifully presented home has had a facelift and Located close to the beautifully maintained
is ready for you to bring your furniture and join the Rossmoyne Bowls club, IGA, restaurant, a short hop
community. Located just down the road from Gate- to the River, and easy access to the Freeway so you
ways shopping centre, restaurants, café’s, access to can zip into Perth or head to Mandurah for a day
the freeway, the list goes on to what is available within out there is just so much to love about this home
easy striking distance. and the location.

Villa for sale: $295,000 Villa for sale: $495,000

Thomas Perrot Village 2 11 Foley Village 3 1.5 1

Villa 50/10 Houtmans St, Shelley 88/84 Collick St, Hilton

Thomas Perrott Village is a picturesque village This freshly repainted and recarpeted home is
with well-maintained gardens, featuring a total of located on a single level but has a beautiful upper
55 units with either one or two bedrooms. This village level balcony to enjoy any time of day. Residents can
is conveniently located near the local shopping cen- access locally or onsite a range of services including
tre, bowling club and tennis courts in Central Road GP’s, allied health professionals, shopping centre and
and Canning River. A bus stop is approximately 200 hairdresser. There is also a Catholic Church adjacent
metres away from the village. to the complex.

Villa for sale: $300,000 Villa for sale: $499,000

Call Adam 0431 795 686 for more information. Visit www.scrosswa.org.au/homes-sale/

Central O ce T: 1300 669 189
F: (08) 9282 9999
15 Rowe Avenue, Rivervale WA 6103
PO Box 76, Burswood WA 6100 [email protected]
www.scrosswa.org.au