On 18 October, participants of Resthaven’s ‘Staying at Home in Regional South Australia’ program enjoyed an afternoon art therapy session during their retreat. Based at a beautiful residence in Stirling, against the backdrop of the Adelaide Hills, it was the perfect environment to get creativity flowing with a painting session. Program facilitator and Dementia Educator, … Continued
The start of a new year is an opportunity to set some goals or resolutions for the year ahead. For the aged care sector, 2024 represents another year of ongoing change. In July this year, a new rights-based Aged Care Act commences, together with revised Aged Care Quality Standards. And, for the first time, residential … Continued
When Resthaven Western Community Services client, Mrs Lois Daviess (94), rediscovered her personal collection of poems from the 1980s, she couldn’t wait to share them with her social activities group. The group, located at the site at 96 Woodville Road, Woodville SA 5011, meets on Wednesdays and is well-known for celebrating talents and building special … Continued
After many years working as an occupational therapist across community and hospital settings, Charmaine Pfitzner was ready for more stability in her career, prompting her move to Resthaven. She explains, ‘Since graduating in 2000, I’ve worked in a multitude of fields, including aged care (private and government sector), neurological and orthopaedic rehabilitation (community and hospital … Continued
‘It’s not what happens to you, it’s how you handle it.’ These are the wise words of Resthaven Onkaparinga Community Services client, Mrs Phyllis ‘Jean’ Croxton, who celebrated her 102nd birthday on 29 December 2023. Mrs Croxton, who was born in 1921, grew up with five brothers and two sisters in Norwood. She spent seven years … Continued
Recently, Resthaven Mitcham resident, Mr Ian Gambling, enjoyed a special 60-year reunion with a former colleague. It’s all thanks to Quaid—the home’s favourite four-legged volunteer! Quaid is a regular visitor to Resthaven Mitcham, where he is accompanied by fellow volunteer, and doting owner, Diana Walters. ‘One aspect that makes Quaid a perfect volunteer, is that … Continued
Happy 100th birthday to Mrs Aileen Hart, who celebrates her milestone on 4 January 2024, in her home at Resthaven Malvern. Mrs Hart’s daughter, Julie, says, ‘Mum was an only child, born and raised in Woodville, and went to the local school there.’ ‘Her father—my grandfather—worked for the Hindmarsh Building Society, and she was very … Continued
Happy 100th birthday to Resthaven Onkaparinga Community Services client, Mr Mervyn Roberts, who has lived a life of bravery, fame, and everything in between. Born on 30 December 1923, Mr Roberts (pictured left) grew up in Adelaide with his mother, father, and younger sister. His schooling years saw him excelling in sport—a precursor to the … Continued
On 15 November, Resthaven Marion residents enjoyed a day out to the Marion Cultural Centre, where they watched award-winning writer and performer, Bill ‘Swampy’ Marsh, discuss his new book More Great Australian Outback Towns & Pubs Stories. Lifestyle Coordinator, Tamara Jacquier, explains, ‘Recently, the Marion Cultural Centre received a grant from the Office for Ageing … Continued
Christmas celebrations are in full swing across Resthaven, with all residential homes holding their annual Christmas Luncheons throughout December. At each site, residents enjoy a traditional, three-course Christmas meal with all the trimmings, including pudding with brandy custard. There are many laughs to be heard as residents pull their bonbons and don their paper crowns, … Continued
The Limestone Coast Craft Social Group is crafting up a storm again this Christmas, this time making festive Christmas cards to share with their family and friends. The group, which is run by Resthaven Limestone Coast Community Services, meets regularly at the Resthaven office at 11 George Street, Millicent. Relieving Assistant Manager, Kate Farana, says, … Continued
I would love a dollar for every time someone mentions how quickly the past year has gone. It usually doesn’t take long for the conversation to turn to how time seems to go faster as we get older. We then reflect on a happier time when life took a more leisurely pace. Times have changed, … Continued
This Christmas, Resthaven Mitcham volunteer, Bob Wharton, shares a special musical memory. Bob says, ‘I was working part-time back when I started volunteering with Resthaven, about fourteen years ago, and I wanted to contribute to the community in some way.’ ‘I have always enjoyed playing my guitar and singing with people, and I had a … Continued
Resthaven Paradise and Eastern Community Services staff have rallied together this festive season, creating special care bags for women living in crisis this Christmas. Manager, Eli Ulbrich, says, ‘This initiative was brought to us by a staff member, who wanted to be involved in Share the Dignity’s “It’s in the Bag” Christmas appeal.’ ‘The idea … Continued
Miss Norma Dunn has been a client of Resthaven Western Community Services for the past three years, and particularly enjoys the connections she has made through its respite cottage at 111 Regency Road, Croydon Park. Home Support Worker, Rosemary Gorodecky says, ‘Norma is a happy, cheeky member of our Regency Cottage family, and attends several … Continued
On Thursday 16 November, a celebration was held at On Statenborough retirement living to recognise the regeneration of the Michael Perry Botanic Reserve in Stonyfell. Mr Michael Perry AM, for whom the reserve is named, was the special guest of honour. A former City of Burnside Councillor, Mayor, and Alderman, Mr Perry now resides at … Continued
Happy 100th birthday to Mr Albert Raven, who happily resides at Resthaven Marion, his home for the past 12 months. Born in Adelaide on 29 November 1923, Mr Raven reflects fondly on his first home in Oxford Street, Hyde Park. ‘I had seven brothers and sisters, and my father had a bike shop close to home … Continued
Personal Care Assistant, Shweta, thrives in her role at Resthaven Leabrook, allowing her to connect with people every day. Shweta says, ‘I am an outgoing, empathetic person by nature, and I love keeping busy, which is perfect for my role!’ Shweta’s workday involves providing direct care services to residents throughout the home, allowing her flexibility … Continued
With the winners of the 2024 Reader’s Digest Quality Service Awards announced on 16 November, Resthaven Chief Executive Officer, Darren Birbeck, says, ‘I am delighted that Resthaven has been awarded “silver” for Home Care Services — South Australia and Northern Territory.’ ‘This award recognises Resthaven as a leading not-for-profit aged care organisation providing home care … Continued
Four newly built premium single rooms will be available soon at Resthaven Mount Gambier, following a renovation at the home at 24 Elizabeth Street. Manager, Belle Kerr, says, ‘The four new rooms are the result of a conversion of two former retirement living apartments, which were part of the original design of the architecturally designed … Continued