faircare trust december newsletter

www.faircare.co.za | Issue 5 ~ 2012 | 01 16 | Issue 5 ~ 2012 | www.faircare.co.za

FaircareIssue 5 - 2012

A division of the Faircape Group

Retire with Confidence

Bridgewater Manor • Clé Du Cap • Heritage Manor • Noordhoek Manor • Onrus Manor Somerset West Kirstenhof Somerset West Noordhoek Hermanus

Contact Information Answers to Target - 5Faircare Trust Head OfficeJuliet Bingham 021 815 5766082 460 [email protected]

Noordhoek ManorJenny Thompson 021 787 0100082 409 [email protected]

Clé du CapLesley van Huyssteen021 701 5007082 550 [email protected]

Faircare Trust Ground Floor, Wembley 2 PO Box 13214,2 Solan Street Mowbray Gardens 77058001Office number 021 815 5700Facsimile 086 511 0120Email [email protected]

If you have any queries feel free to contact us on [email protected]. If you would like to report or follow up on any maintenance issues please feel free to contact us on our dedicated Services & Maintenance email address: [email protected].

In order to improve our customer service and response time to our clients please feel free to email us on our dedicated complaints email address: [email protected].

Bridgewater ManorRosemary Gluckman 021 850 2100082 929 [email protected]

Heritage ManorLyn Brandon-Podd 021 851 4305072 247 [email protected]

Onrus ManorDomma van der Merwe 028 316 5000082 901 [email protected]

Prices are correct at the time of going to print, but are subject to change without prior notice.For more information contact Juliet Bingham on 021 815 5766 or 082 460 8609

[email protected] | www.faircare.co.za

Health Care Info Line082 521 4995

VILLAGE DESCRIPTION PRICE

Clé du Cap Unit 16, 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom, Upstairs Apartment ,Guest Toilet R 1 795 000

Kirstenhof Unit 54, 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathroom, Upstairs Apartment & Single Garage R 1 900 000

Bridgewater Manor 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom, Single Garage, Cottage R 590 000

Somerset West 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom, Single Garage, Cottage R 650 000

2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom, Single Garage, Upstairs Apartment R 750 000

Heritage Manor Unit 118, 2 Bedrooms, 1,5 Bathroom, Single Garage, Shiraz - (115 sqm) R 1 350 000

Somerset West

Noordhoek Manor Unit 102, 2 Bedroom, Full Bathroom, Guest Toilet & Sunroom Single Garage (121 sqm) R 1 850 000

Noordhoek Unit 201, 2 Bedrooms, Sunroom, Full Bathroom, Single Garage, Guest Toilet (122 sqm) R 1 795 000

Unit 231, 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom, Single Garage & Sunroom (98sqm) R 1 375 000

Unit 232, 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom, Single Garage (111 sqm) R 1 400 000

Unit 235, 2 Bedrooms, 1.5 Bathrooms, Single Garage & Sunroom (128sqm) R 1 900 000

Unit 241, 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Double Garage (160 sqm) R 2 800 000

Unit 242, 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom, Single Garage (98 sqm) R 1 250 000

Unit 316, 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Study & Double Garage (173sqm) R 2 995 000

Unit 433, 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom, Single Garage (97sqm) R 1 250 000

Onrus Manor 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Single Garage & Sunroom R 1 500 000

Onrusriver, Hermanus 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathrooms, Single Garage R 1 250 000

The Faircare Trust Village Lifestyle NewsletterThe Faircare Trust Village Lifestyle NewsletterPR

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"...Our ethos of continuous assessment is the key to any good "training" or learning program, remains steadfast."

Fran Taylor - Senior execuTive

9 letter words1. retreated

7 letter words1. retread2. treader3. treated

6 letter words1. darter2. dearer3. ratted4. reader5. reared6. reread7. retard8. retrad9. tarred10. tarted11. teared12. tetrad13. trader

5 letter words1. darer2. dater

3. deter4. drear5. eared6. erred7. rared8. rated9. tared10. teaed11. trade12. tread13. treed

4 letter words1. daer2. dare3. dart4. date5. dear6. deer7. drat8. dree9. read10. rede11. reed12. taed13. teed14. trad The 5th of November marked

a momentous occasion in the history of Faircare Health. 40 carers across all five Faircare Health’s Care Centres were reassigned from their regular shifts “on the floor” and went back to the classroom. The second group of 40 carers will start their course later this month with the final group of 30 starting in the new year.

The feeling from the first group of learners was that of excitement and in trepidation. Our highly experienced and accredited educators Sr Pedro and Sr Brenda soon put the Learners to work and the feedback from both is very positive.

Our educators commented on the learners professional conduct, and the learners were soon bubbling over with discussions regarding anatomy. Talk in the passages and training venues was buzzing with discussions

between the students on the 12 systems of the body and how to assist with bathing and manual transfers.

A significant part of the training includes community work and carers will be shadowing carers in the Home Base Care Program. This will give carers exposure to another aspect of our services and as ambassadors of the company they will find themselves in a different environment from what they areused to in the Care Centres.

Our ethos of "continuous assessment is the key to any good training or learning program" remains steadfast. Faircare Health has taken the lead with their Skills Framework; the Level 3 Carers Learnership Program is accredited with the Health & Welfare SETA. Carers will qualify with a national qualification.

A group of carers also attended a five day Hospice Palliative Care Course which

covered aspects such as functional decline, quality of life at the end of life, and pain management. Carers who attended this course feel empowered and better equipped after their recent training to help those in need.

FAIRCARE HEALTH – Rolls out their World Class Training Program.

Dear Domma

I had "lang tande" about moving to Onrus Manor as I felt it was a bit premature. I had no idea I was entering paradise!

The people, the mountain; the flowers and Cape Sugar Birds, the gardens, Herman's outings and the well-run Manor have been a wonderful surprise! For 7 years prior to coming here I have been depressed and unable to do anything creative. No sooner than I had arrived here my fingers started to itch and these bright coloured table cloths are a reflection, oh the joy I feel inside!

Onrus Manor is awesome!Onrus Manor Resident

Unscramble the 9 letters in the box, the centre letter is the compulsory letter. Each word must be 4 letters or more and must contain the compulsory letter.

TARGET - DECEMBER

9 letter words - 17 letter words - 36 letter words - 135 letter words - 134 letter words - 14

Solution to Target on page 16 www.faircare.co.za | Issue 5 ~ 2012 | 15 02 | Issue 5 ~ 2012 | www.faircare.co.za

Sometimes a program is needed; sometimes facilitated learning "in-service training” is needed; sometimes individual coaching is needed. The important thing is to have the resources available to do what is needed when it is needed and Faircare Health’s

Skills Framework and Learnership Program provides for this.

Staff need to feel supported in all that they have to learn. The minimum support is that they need to say what they think they need to learn and an official forum in which

to have a voice. This became evident in a recent meeting of the Employment Equity Steering Committee. The members of the Committee are representation from all categories of workers in the health care. The Committee has plans for active participation in 2013 where issues are discussed and debated and resolution found amongst the representatives.

Our carers look forward to a period of nine months of practical once they are back “on the floor” where their academic knowledge is put into practice. Faircare sisters and the educators partner to assess the carers in the Learnership Program ensuring the techniques they have learnt are in fact used.

I am sure you will join me in wishing them all the very best and congratulating the first group who are now doing their practical, for their commitment to the program.

RegardsFran TaylorSenior Executive Faircare Health

Continued from page 1

Onrus Manor THEY'D RATHER BE WALKING - DISCOVERY BIG WALK

NEW ASSISTED BATHS IN OUR VILLAGES

It was the perfect day for a walk! Partly cloudy with sunshine and a gentle breeze. 20 intrepid Faircape & Faircare staff braved the masses and congestion to make our way to the start line. We were in the 1st group of 3, setting off on a 5km walk, children and prams amassed! With a burst of energy, we eventually took to the Main Road and started the art of dodging prams, other walkers, toddlers

and oncoming traffic. Just as the sun started shining hotter and brighter, with the Energade drinks and jellies sponsored by Faircape coming to an end, we arrived at the finish line at St George's Grammar School, to be met with medals.

The road was long, with many a winding turn ... with some enthusiastic 5km walkers starting their walk in Plumstead; and others ending theirs in Pinelands!

Our villages have recently been furnished with these state of the art assisted baths. They are a height-adjustable tubs with removable, integrated lift system as alternative to tubs with a door. The seat dives into the water, while the tub is moving upwards. Made for care at home, for ambulant care and care in nursing homes and Healthcare's such as our own. The tub and instrument panel are designed as

a seamless compact unit made of deep-drawn acrylic glass and cladding made of plastic.

By actuating the current-less air remote control the tub is lifted. The integrated seat always stays on the same level and direction. When the Samarit tub is in the highest position, the bather is sitting in the water and the tub is on nursing height.

contains virtually no salt due to the many rivers flowing into the Gulf. Estonians joke that wherever the Russians had been, shortages always occur! Skype was invented in Estonia and components for space satellites are manufactured here.

In St Petersburg, where the Neva River winds through the city to the sea, imperial palaces glitter in gold leaf and supermarkets are situated only in shopping malls. No little corner shops, as building facades must look elegant! No modern high rise buildings are allowed as some buildings are slowly sinking due to the marshy soil.We were startled when woken up during the night by gunshot sounds!

The Russian guide explained that it was customary to have firework displays at Russian wedding feasts, which were held at night. Couples marry in the mornings only, at registrars’ offices, in full bridal finery and then wander around parks until evening. We saw many of them! The Russian Orthodox Church forbids divorce, so church ceremonies are avoided.

A sleek bullet shaped train transported us to Moscow. In every carriage there were surveillance cameras and security officers. Dense forests opened up to reveal weather-beaten houses and little else. Mushroom gathering is a national pastime and the silver birch, the national tree of Russia.

During a visit to the Kremlin we were shown the guest house where visiting dignitaries, including Queen Elizabeth II stayed. Moscovites are extremely fashion conscious. Many wore brand names like Levi, Diesel and Gucci. In rural areas old ladies still wear scarves, black skirts and sturdy boots.

In the Baltic States and Russia, people, especially the young, are attracted to the Western lifestyle. McDonald's restaurants are everywhere. Paul McCartney, Michael Jackson and Lady Gaga all performed here. What a fascinating tour on a road less travelled!

Continued on from page 14

Faircare & Faircape Staff

LETTERS FROM OUR RESIDENTS

Dear Timothy, On behalf of all of us who took the opportunity to breath in some beautiful fresh country air, we would like to say a very BIG THANK YOU to FAIRCARE for arranging and paying for the very comfortable coach. What a perfect day it was weatherwise and all of us who went thoroughly enjoyed the outing. Just such a pity that so few of us residents went on this lovely outing. Harold Porter Nature garden is looking as lovely and beautiful as ever, and it is perfectly kept. Quite a few of us managed to walk up to the waterfall, myself included.

Then we went on to visit the penguin colony, and there were thousands there, not forgetting the lovely drive there and back, along the coast with the world renowned views. What was absolutely amazing to me, that so many of the disabled residents went. Sally Brownie was in her wheelchair, others with three or four wheelers, and myself and others with walking sticks. Where were the able bodied residents? Thank you again for the BIG SCREEN television in the VOORBURG LOUNGE, we are really enjoying watching the RUGBY. Leading up to the festive season, I am very busy at the church, helping there, but once over, and into the NEW YEAR, I shall certainly be watching more and arranging DVD afternoons. Please thank all concerned. Kindest regards,David Boucher

Bridgewater Manor

FROM ALL AT: FAIRCARE TRUST

www.faircare.co.za | Issue 5 ~ 2012 | 03

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Heritage Manor

Clé du Cap

We'd like to wish all our readers, clients, friends and colleagues the happiest of holidays! May the

timeless message of Christmas fill your heart & home with joy this season & throughout the coming year.

On Monday the 15th of October a swarm of bees were discovered under a metal water mains cover. This was the third visit to this spot by bees over the years. Bees visit Heritage in the Summer and have been found in garages and enjoy Weber braais. Maintenance staff are often called in to assist Residents to overcome the Visitors.

This year was different...

Andrew from AJ's Garden Service called Pierre Botes (bee keeper) to assist us – they called me to observe. Pierre dressed in normal pants and a T-shirt opened the cover and turned it over. He then found the Queen – took her and removed her wings so she would not be able to fly. The bees did not touch Pierre or Andrew. Pierre placed the queen in a hive box he had brought along – the bees massed on Pierre’s arms and started to follow the queen into the box. Being very careful of bees I was eventually coached into standing next to Andrew and Pierre. The bees flew around us but did not harm us. It was truly an amazing experience with nature and I found myself at peace with these tiny creatures. The bees were left until the evening when Pierre returned to take them to a new home. Pierre apparently uses little or no smoke when dealing with bees and there appears a mutual respect between man and bee. Both Pierre and the bees from now on will be Welcome at Heritage.

WHERE BEES MAKE HONEY...Two of Clé du Cap residents, Mrs Val Latimer and Paul Götze were recently overcome by the call of the wild and they joined Landscape Tours on a trip to the Victoria Falls and Chobe. This turned out to be a memorable occasion, seeing the falls by walking in the rainforest and from a helicopter, visiting the Chobe reserve by vehicle and boat cruises on the Chobe River. Victoria Falls as seen from the Zambian side showing the Eastern Cateract and the spray from the falls. The crossing from Zambia to Botswana across the Zambezi River took place at Kazangula, where the four countries Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and

My tour of the Baltic States (Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia) started at Warsaw, travelling through the primeval forest of Augustow, the biggest indigenous forest in Europe. Along the roadside were signs urging travellers to watch out for reindeer crossing the road. Wild crabapple trees laden with little yellow apples flashed past, as did silver birches, firs and spruce.

Crossing into Lithuania, throught Augustow, we saw storks peering from their nests on telegraph poles. These storks are most efficient at delivering

babies. Lithuania has a very high birth rate! In Vilnius, capital of Lithuania we visited the grim KGB museum. Half of Vilnius was destroyed during WWII. Near Riga, capital of Latvia, the Hill of Crosses stood starkly against the sky. Wooden crosses, in thousands, were planted there by the population as a symbol of the resistance against the Soviet occupation. It was very moving to see the inscriptions on crosses, dedicated to dear ones from the Baltics, Poland, England and America. In Riga there are stunning Art Nouveau buildings, circa 1900. These survived,

as Riga was not bombed during the war. Tallin, capital of Estonia, is situated on the Gulf of Finland. Seawater there

Namibia meet. This crossing was in launches, whilst all vehicles cross by Ferry, in the absence of a bridge. Accommodation was provided at Kasane at the Safari Lodge. From here early morning drives into the Chobe Reserve and cruises on the Chobe River by boat during the afternoons took place.

This led to sightings of all forms of wild life from birds to breeding herds of elephants. An unforgettable sight was the crossing of the Chobe River by a herd with young to a central island; and the abundance of birds and their calls, and in the evenings the sunsets.

THE SPREAD CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Lion on the prowl; Sunset on the Chobe River after a memorable outing; Leopard crossing the road; “What a big mouth you’ve got!”; Spectacular views; Elephant herd crossing the Chobe River; Below a shot from the helicopter of the falls, bridge and gorge.

TWO CLÉ DU CAP RESIDENTS' TRAVEL TO VICTORIA FALLS

A visit to the Baltic States & Russia

RESIDENT ~ TRAVELS

By Eumarie Ross, Heritage Manor

Continued on page 15

Faircare Trust ~ Christmas Edition

Merry Christmas IN THIS ISSUE: • Faircare Health's - Training Program ~ Page 1 • Resident Letters ~ Page 2 • Christmas Greetings~ • Congratulations ~ Page 3 • Where Bees make honey ~ Page 3 • Faircare Health ~ Page 7 • Village Happenings: Clé du Cap News ~ Page 4 Heritage Manor News ~ Page 5 - 6 Onrus Manor News ~ Page 11 Noorhoek Manor News ~ Page 12 Bridgewater Manor News ~ Page 13 • Occupational Therapy - Andrea Zanetti ~ Page 8-9 • Village Manager Article ~ Page 10 • Resident Travels ~ Page 14 - 15 • New Assisted Baths ~ Page 15 • Big Walk ~ Page 15 • Target ~ Page 15

CongratulationsCongratulations to Alan and Miriam Butcher from Clé du Cap Retirement

Village who tied the knot on Saturday the 10th of November.


BEAUTIFUL ROSE GARDENS AT CLÉ DU CAP

BIRDWATCHING - ZEEKOEVLEI & BEYOND

Clé du Cap

We couldn't have chosen a worse day weather wise as there was a howling gale blowing and the birds were hunkered down out of the wind. Our main objective were the Flamingos and they did us proud. Many hundreds of them, feeding and strutting and organising themselves into several royal pink unforgettable fly pasts. Our sewerage works is without doubt, a very special place.

Tom maThews

Sweet Valley Primary School learners and teachers came to entertain the residents at CDC HCC as part of their community outreach program.

There were 6 teachers and 22 learners who came out for a concert during their lunch break. The residents were entertained with various flute tunes and piano music. 33 Residents and 7 family members applauded the group for the memorable tunes.

The residents enjoyed the concert so much that they didn't want the learners to leave.

Thank you Sweet Valley Primary learners for your wonderful music.

CLÉ DU CAP HEALTH CARE CENTRE

Clé du Cap

Mrs Sutter Webber's rose garden.Mrs Brenner's rose garden.

Clé du Cap ~ NEWS

A special ceremony called the Blessing of Pets was included in the Anglican service with Father Jacques from the Parish of All Saints on the 11th of October at 10 am in the Manor House. This custom is in remembrance of St Francis of Assisi’s love for all creatures. St Francis, whose feast day is October 4th, loved the larks flying about his hilltop town. He and his early brothers, staying in a small hovel, allowed themselves to be displaced by a donkey that needed shelter. The bond between person and pet is like no other relationship, because the communication between fellow creatures is at its most basic. Residents attended this special occasion accompanied by their animal friends.

OVERWHELMED BY ORCHIDS On Thursday 13 September eleven enthusiastic residents of Bridgewater Manor boarded the Heritage Manor minibus for a visit to Duckitt’s Orchid Farm outside Darling for their annual show. On the way we passed Milnerton, Bloubergstrand and Koeberg. Near Darling several passengers requested that we stop to take photographs of a colourful display of wild flowers growing in the veld adjacent to the road. After driving through the picturesque town of Darling we arrived at the famous orchid farm.

On entering the exhibition hall we were overwhelmed by the elaborate and spectacular displays, most of us had never realised that there were so many different varieties and colours of orchids. A great deal of time was spent trying to capture these beautiful flowers on our cameras. When we moved into the section where orchids were on sale the range was so great that most of us had difficulty in deciding which ones we should buy for friends back at Bridgewater. Once Ronald Solomons our driver had carefully loaded all the precious purchases we went to a shaded area on the farm where the packed lunches provided by Geratec were enjoyed. After the picnic there was little enthusiasm to visit the West Coast National Park to see the wild flowers, there were comments that the weather was unfavourable. Admittedly it was chilly and drizzling at times, but the real reason was probably that people wanted to get home and show their treasures to their friends.

THE BRIDGEWATER MANOR EXPEDITION TO BETTY’S BAY

It was a really beautiful warm morning when a cheerful group of residents set out in large comfortable bus for the Harold Porter Botanical Garden at Betty’s bay. We all enjoyed the scenic drive from Gordon’s bay to Rooiels. Many of us remarked how wonderful it was to be able to sit back and enjoy the view without having to concentrate on driving along the winding road and avoid falling into False Bay!

On arrival at the garden Norma briefed us about what we could see in the garden and advised the various explorers of the routes that they could take without “overdoing it”. The paths in the lower part of the garden proved to be walker and wheelchair friendly and there were plenty of benches on which we could sit and admire the beautiful surroundings, lawns and collections of so many different kinds of plants.

The most adventurous among us set out to see the waterfall. It was a long walk through many different types of vegetation and spectacular views of the mountains. Those at the rear of the party encountered a large baboon who made threatening noises before disappearing into the undergrowth. After confirming that there was no danger, we regrouped and continued together towards the waterfall, that was a wonderful sight in the rather narrow gorge. Many of us were most interested to see how different kinds of plants adapted to different types of soil. There was a most interesting area dominated by a statue of a Khoisan hunter showing the indigenous plants used by his people and the purposes for which they used them.

St Francis of Assisi – Blessing of Pets

Bridgewater Manor ~ NEWS

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POTJIE-KOS COMPETITIONBucky Diemont and son-in-law Sam Robertson, are the Noordhoek Potjiekos Champions for 2012. They beat seven other competitors, including teams from Café Roux and The Food Barn, in a potjiekos competition at the Noordhoek Farm Village on Heritage Day (National Braai Day). The judges were Bern le Roux, gourmet cook and cookery author, and one of Cape Town's leading chefs, Franck Dangeroux.

The potjie that brought the bacon back to Noordhoek Manor was guineafowl, watched over by a guineafowl weathervane

that may one day stand discreet ly outside No 19 Horseshoe Crescent. The winning recipe which simmered gently for four hours, comprised four guineafowl from the Bredasdorp district, two chickens to complement the wild flavour, bacon, carrots, celery, onions, mushrooms, guineafowl stock, cream and two bottles of port. The contents of all the potjies were sold in containers with rice to village visitors with proceeds going to a crèche in Masiphumelele.

Bucky (Marius).

HEALTHCARE FISH HOEK BEACH OUTINGSIn early November we took 2 groups from healthcare for a memorable outing to Fish Hoek beach. The first group were lucky to have beautiful calm, warm weather.

We all sat outside watching the ocean as we ate delicious chocolate and vanilla ice-creams. On the day of the second outing the wind came up, but we didn’t let this stop us.

The braver residents went for a short walk along the beach side walkway and on their return; everyone enjoyed ice-creams in the mini-bus while watching the view before taking a lovely scenic drive out towards Simon's Town. The outings were greatly enjoyed by all who attended (some who have not been out in years) and a truly memorable experience was had.

THE SPREAD FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Mr & Mrs Bettison at the beach; Mrs Philips at the beach; Mrs Richards at the beach.

Noordhoek Manor ~ NEWS

Noordhoek Manor

It was a very excited group of people who boarded the mini-bus at 08:00 on the 11th of October at Bridgewater Manor. We travelled over the mountain, enjoying the lovely views.

We arrived in Hermanus and parked at Kwaai Water, hoping to see the whales. We enjoyed the stupendous crashing waves, but the whales were elsewhere!

Then we travelled to Stanford, a beautifully quaint little village, and then on to Wortelgat Farm. There, Bill Duminy made us welcome in his delightful “Fish Eagle” stone cottage.

We had a delectable lunch, thanks to Geratec. Bill then told us about the history and aims of this nature reserve complex alongside the Kleinrivier lagoon. It comprises 20 houses, 3 camp sites and chalets as well as staff accommodation. Schools groups come here to be trained in team building, nature conservation, group dynamics and Christian living. There are

various walking trails and abundant birdlife and of course the unique fynbos and milkwood forests.

Next was a sightseeing tour and very soon we were bogged down in a sandy road. Those of us who could, tried to push Bill’s car free of the sand, but with no luck. Then, the mini-bus was stuck too! Fortunately, a tractor was available and pulled us out and onto firm ground.

We returned home via Betty’s Bay and the coast road, arriving safely home at Bridgewater Manor at 6:00 pm, thanks to our competent driver, Ronald Solomons.

We were welcomed by Rosemary and Tyrone and enjoyed lovely coffee. What an unforgettably lovely day!

Yulaine de Villiers, cottage 96

ONE MANOR'S BIG HEART

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Article by Lyn Brandon PoddVillage Manager - Heritage Manor

HERITAGE MANOR ~ NEWS

Week after week, there are articles written in newspapers about the plight of the less fortunate

people in our community. We read the articles, we feel despondent about their plight and we move on to the next article in the newspaper, not casting our minds back to people who will forever remain nameless and unknown to us.

But, sometimes, we encounter the plight of the less fortunate in other ways and become intensely involved in trying to make the lives of the less fortunate a little more bearable. This is the story of a group of people who sacrificed time, devoted energy and delivered hope to a young mother and her family. This story is about Valerie Stellenberg.

Valerie has been a part of the Heritage Manor staff for 5 years and is well-known amongst the residents. Earlier in the year, Valerie announced that she was expecting a baby, an exciting event which saw the residents of Heritage Manor and her colleagues eager to provide her gifts for the new baby. Valerie happily started her maternity leave, very excited about the new baby she was to bring into her family. Her baby son, Cheswell, was born in the early part of September 2012 and all seemed well. However, tragedy struck

the family in the early hours of a cold and rainy September morning, when Valerie and her family awoke to their home on fire. There was no time to save anything except themselves. All their meagre possessions were lost and damaged in the fire and a new born baby and a little girl of 5 lost their home that their parents provided for them.

The news reached Heritage Manor and quickly, the residents took control of fund-raising, gathering household goods, appliances, furniture, crockery, cookware, clothes and of course the special needs of a precious new baby that had to be kept warm, dry, fed and protected. This outpouring of love has resulted in sufficient money for a new bungalow to be built, with safe electrical connections to prevent future disaster. It has also resulted in all the needs being met to provide for Valerie and her family.

The new foundation is to be laid which will support the wooden bungalow in a safe and new home and by the time Valerie returns to work, she will have been able to care for her new-born in a safe and loving home, lovingly provided for and supported by all the people of Heritage Manor who care.


FRED, THE ROCK & THE RUNAWAY CAR

FUN & PRIZES DRAW CONTESTANTS

PET THERAPY

GEMMA lights UP THEIR LIVES

When Fred Botha's car ended up on a rock outside his neighbour’s house, his heart sank. Of all people, the rock belonged to none other than that scourge of speeding drivers, Security Trustee, Chris De Villiers. “Gotcha” said Chris, reaching for his rule book to see how many infringements he could nail on Fred. “Not so fast” said Fred “I was’t speeding – I did not fail to stop at the stop streets – I wasn’t even driving the car”

That was undeniably true, Fred was not driving the car at the time; in fact... no-one was. When Fred parked outside his house, he forgot to put the handbrake on and the car meandered slowly down the road on its own before coming to rest on a rock. “So sue the car” said Fred triumphantly. Chris sensed a challenge – he had a village to protect and was not going to be talked down. He licked his pencil, “How old is the car?”... “Six years” replied Fred. “Then you are responsible for a minor, and guilty of child neglect, you could go to prison” The image of possible future companions made Fred hesitate,

before switching to the standard South African defence of offering Chris a bottle of scotch to make the case go away. “You are attempting to bribe a legally appointed official... that will be another five years” said Chris. The verbal battle swayed back and forth until their wives turned up. “Put your book away and take the scotch” said Chris' wife Pat. “Say sorry and plead insanity”, said Fred’s wife Pam. “What about my rock?” said Chris. Pat’s reply was fortunately lost in a sudden gust of wind.

A record nine teams of four took part in the quiz evening on Friday September 14. The double act of Letitia Snyman and Christine Cleal, are getting the hang of putting on fun evenings, with Letitia‟s measured presentation, jollied along by Christine cheerfully offering clues in stage whispers. The chance to win prizes may also have helped draw more contestants. The questions seem to have hit the right degree of examination – testing – but within reach.

Winners Pam Smith, Molly Goddard, Ernst Bekker and Hugh Tait, scored 34 out of a possible 40 and each received a bottle of wine, courtesy of boss barman, Pierre Husselmann. Pat de Villiers helped the evening along by totting up the scores. This frees up the questioners to keep the evening moving at a steady pace – adding to its success.

ONRUS MANOR ~ NEWS

Thursday afternoon is the highlight of the week for residents of Onrus Manor's Assisted Living and Frail Care. That is when a small dog named Gemma, arrives to spend an hour or so bringing them a special kind of companionship. Gemma and her owner, Martha Swart, unit 290, are delivering "Pets As Therapy" (PAT), an interactive programme that uses dogs to increase awareness among those who suffer withdrawal and isolation.

Gemma may be small, but she puts a big smile on everyone’s face when they stroke her head and fondle her ears. As she goes from one to another, eyes light

up and eager hands reach out to touch her. The unconditional affection offered by dogs encourages the most withdrawn to open up. They restore a connection with home comforts which helps break down barriers. This is not just a casual visit by a friendly neighbour.

The beneficial effect of using pets in care programmes for the elderly has long been recognised; but it is necessary to tread carefully when working with disoriented people. Not all dogs – or their owners – have the temperament and social skills to fill the role of companions. The apparent success of Martha and Gemma's work

at Onrus Manor, brought an invitation to introduce the programme to Kidbrooke residents. This means more work for a small dog, but her vigorously wagging tail suggests Gemma rather enjoys her role. The Health Centre is a heart-warming place to be on Thursday afternoon.

MORE HERITAGE MANOR NEWS

The WP Catering Team outdid themselves today, being CASUAL DAY - 07 September 2012. A theme was set for lunch today - ALL THINGS NAUTICAL. This started out with people being invited to dress in a nautical theme and compete for the "best dressed" prizes. The foyer leading up to the entrance of the dining room was scattered with little tiny sailing boats. There were international flags draped on the walls and doors. Lunch was served in nautical style starting with a

lovely prawn cocktail salad, accompanied with an island style drink - little umbrella included! And then, to follow on the theme of casual, traditional fish and chips served in paper wrapping - quite different. The residents played their part and dressed up for the occasion.

Well done to Edna and her very talented team. Nautical fun was had by all who left the lovely event with their sea legs heading for dry and sunny land!

CELEBRATING casual day IN NAUTICAL STYLE

On a cool but beautifully clear day in early Spring, six "Oldies " plus our very energetic manageress from Heritage Manor, set out to experience the beauty of the flowering watsonias, in the foothills of the Helderberg Mountain.

The walk was along a two kilometer jeep trail and had a steady, but reasonable upgradient, that levels out in a small valley, where watsonias grow in profusion. The walk was accomplished without too much “puff”. This could be attributed to the fact that it was early morning, which also contributed to clear views of False Bay right out to Cape Point. Simply breathtaking!

The watsonias were only blooming here and there, but new stems were promising a wonderful showing in a few weeks time. We all presumed that because of the cooler and definitely wetter winter this year, the watsonias would bloom a little later than normal. We all agreed that the walk was a wonderful experience and what better excuse to repeat the walk a few weeks later to see the watsonias blooming in profusion and covering the small valley in a sea of pink.

Lovely active residents up and about in the early morning sunshine! No time for hiding behind tea cups...

Heritage Manor HOT HEELERS IN THE HELDERBERG

Heritage Manor


FAIRCARE HEALTHWHATS HAPPENING @

For those of you who are reading about Faircare Health for the first time, allow me to introduce our five Care Centres, Bridgewater, Cle du Cap, Noordhoek and Onrus & Heritage Health Care Centres; 220 beds in total.

We have been leaders in the provision of care to the elderly for 24 years. We see constant changes in trends and the needs of the elderly and the gap between old age homes and our Care Centres as we see them today is enormous. Care Centres cater for residents with different needs. We talk about ageing in place where we provide care to the frail who need assistance with daily activities through to Palliative and End of Live Care. Dementia Secure provides a safe and secure environment and a place where Residents who are cognitively challenged can carry on the tasks of daily living with dignity. Assisted Living provides comfortable living for the more independent. In 2003 Faircare Health branched into Sub Acute care. Sub Acute or “step-down” is a level of care offered to patients who have been in acute (hospital) care and who require continued skilled nursing care before returning home. By virtue of our location in the Faircare Trust Retirement Villages our typical patient is a “senior citizen”. However with Sub Acute we offer care to adults both within the Care Centres and from the community.

Identifying future needs and trends is an important aspect in the care industry. Just this last month, we received our Sub Acute & Physical Rehabilitation Licence at Clé du Cap. This represents a significant benefit, to both the residents of the village who can now receive step down care in the luxury of their Care Centre and, to Faircare Health. It is the first of our Care Centres to receive the Physical Rehabilitation Licence. Faircare owns and operates 4 of the available 15 registered Sub Acute facilities in the Cape Town, Helderberg and Overberg area.

Physical Rehabilitation, or wellness centres will be equipped with electric plinths and equipment used by physiotherapists and occupational therapists to restore motor function. This is typically after a stroke or an event which has left the patient debilitated in some form.

Whilst we consider our facilities mature and well established they have benefited tremendously from recent extensive upgrades and refurbishments. Staff are immensely proud of their working environments and the excellent

facilities offered to Residents. Residents and their relatives have been very generous with their bouquets and accolades as the improvements have without a doubt added to their quality of life.

Living areas have been refurnished with new bespoke furniture. Specific care has been taken in the design and suitability of all the furniture. Modern blinds have replaced curtains, new artwork has added much needed colour to the walls, lighting has been upgraded and floor coverings have been replaced. Lounges now boast home theatre systems with DVD and quality sound systems. New electric beds have been well received by both Residents and staff as these beds have improved comfort levels and ease for transferring Residents in an out of bed.

Detail in the design of the assisted showers and bathrooms has been well received by medical practitioners, staff, residents and relatives who see these upgraded facilities as setting the standard in facilities in Care Centres. Baths have been upgraded from conventional baths to electric baths imported from Germany and will make it possible for residents both with full motor function and with limited mobility to have a good bathing experience. Other assistive devices such as patient lifters, patient scales and new wheelchairs have enhanced quality care for our Residents.

Our facilities are monitored by CCTV which provides a safe and secure environment for both Residents and staff.

Faircare Health has developed a good relationship with Hermanus MediClinic. MediClinic have selected Onrus Manor as their chosen monthly venue to hold CPD meetings for their medical profession. On a monthly basis we host between 30 & 40 medical professionals who attend a dinner and talk at Onrus Manor.

Care Centres are staffed with registered nurses, nursing assistants and care workers. Faircare Health has developed a program of career opportunities for care workers. The program is the first of its kind in the caring industry. Faircare Health has mapped a Skills Framework whereby our care workers will have the opportunity to achieve a meaningful qualification. Staff will be recognised for their achievement with more remuneration and stripes awarded on completion of each level of training will distinguish those who have participated.

that we were returning the right way, but I was carefully watching every step in my surroundings and was assured that my survival mode was leading me in the right direction.

Two off-road vehicles arrived with the Reserve Manager and staff. He came to tell us that we would be evacuated by an airforce helicopter and we should prepare to leave at anytime. All the roads had become unsurpassable and they had already lost a vehicle earlier. He was unable to tell us how long this would be. It was decided that another group who arrived at 1pm should have priority on the Oryx Helicopter. The ranger took them to the jeep track higher along the road, away from the huts. We didn't know where the helicopter would land and couldn't see that it would be possible to land.

We heard a helicopter in the distance, It headed toward us over the ocean, emerging from behind the mountain. We were ecstatic! I ran trying to find the best vantage spot to see it land – I knew that helicopter pilots have to be miracle workers in situations like these. It circled three times and found a spot just to the left of the huts, landing perfectly amidst the scrub, trees and rocks and expertly dodging the solar panels on pylons!The first seven clambered aboard and the pilot headed out, taking them to safety.

We were next. We didn’t have long to wait. The Oryx returned at 4:20pm and we climbed aboard, the next seven headed off to safety. The experience was almost surreal. "Is this really happening?" I ask myself…I peered out of the window, observing the rest of the trail we should've be walking over the next two days. Somewhat torn between missing out on the last two days of the journey on the trail, the wonderful communing with nature that it brings and the excitement and thrill of being in a helicopter, being rescued.

Needless to say, we were safe, grateful for the efficient disaster management skills of the reserve management and staff and the skill of a magnificent helicopter pilot. Now for next time…oh yes, there will be a next time, for sure!!

LYN BRANDON-PODD Whale Trail Survivor October 2012Village Manager - Heritage Manor

to show patches of blue. Along the walk we could now see the magnificent valleys, the masses of proteas and fynbos covering the mountains and beautiful sunbirds enjoying relief from the rain. We could see the coast on our right hand side and the endless farmlands to the left as we started to reach the peak. We began to ponder on how many whales we would spot. We descended into the valley below the mountain and this is where staying dry ended! As a result of the torrential rain in the preceding days, the rivulets had become rivers, broken their banks and created lakes andt swamps. By now and as a result of all the rain, the rocks were very loose and very slippery. .

During the night we awoke to the sound of rain. It rained continuously. By the time dawn had broken, it was evident that we were in for another overcast day with more rain. Serious debates ensued about the safest route to take to the next hut. By now everyone realised that we were risking our safety. We decided to walk the jeep track. This we did for about 4 km. The jeep track was completely flooded by 500m of water and by the now we realised why they had not been to collect our food boxes – they could not get through as the 4x4 track had become a river! Again we waded and waded and waded through water until we reached a fork. Again, more debating about which fork to take until someone suggested we should try and reach the reserve office via cellphone. Impossible, I thought, there is no reception in the valley at all. And then the miracle – we were able to contact the reserve office and this is when we learnt that they were evacuating everyone from the reserve. We were instructed to walk back to the hut we came from as we could be found there more easily. Again, we waded back through the water, some doubting

Excitement follows some wherever they go, and the manager of Heritage Manor is one of those people. What should have been an

enjoyable hike for Lyn with her husband and 10 friends turned into an adventure. This is just an extract of Lyn's account of her "hike" along the whale trail. Ask her the full story ...

On Sunday 14 October 2012 a group of 12 of us arrive at around 4pm at the Potberg Hut, the first overnight hut before embarking on the trek through the mountains starting the next day. I am part of this group, along with 4 good friends and other travellers from Natal. Great planning and organising was in place, the only obstacle was the weather and we knew that this was going to be against us on day one of the hike. Most of us had been on the Whale trail before, so we knew what to expect and we were all greatly anticipating a marvellous encounter with nature, despite the weather.

On the first day we rose early, somewhat challenged by cold showers and lack of lighting – the solar energy required to give light was not powered enough – another indicator that the weather had been overcast and rainy for a few days in the region. Within the first hour, everything we were wearing and carrying was soaked by the constant driving rain. The trail was not visible through the driving rain for about 400m ahead, so it was a case of head down and feet forward, watching for ever present wet, loose rocks, slippery mud and dodgy ledges when the wind shifted up a notch or two. The rain continued non-stop during the night and we retired wondering what the next day would bring.

On day two we awoke at dawn and found that the rain had become a drizzle and the sky had started

Whale Trail Survivor

Heritage Manor

Village Manager Article

Heritage Manor


OCCUPATIONALTHERAPYIn our FIVE villages

Activities within our villages:

BRIDGEWATER MANOR HEALTHCARE CENTRE

HERITAGE MANOR HEALTHCARE CENTRE

ONRUS MANOR HEALTHCARE CENTRE

CLE DU CAP HEALTH CARE CENTRE

NOORDHOEK MANOR HEALTHCARE CENTRE

By Andrea Zanetti – Faircare Health Group Occupational Therapist

Each Health Care Centre within the Faircare Group has an occupational therapist or occupational therapy technician on staff to complement the multi-disciplinary and person-centred approach to care of residents. The aim of the occupational therapy service is to provide a comprehensive and holistic allied health and rehabilitation (where necessary) service to the residents within the village and the health care centres.

The occupational therapy service is provided on an individual and group basis. Types of interventions differ depending on needs, which are determined individually, on a case-by-case basis in order to ensure person-centred care.

Healthcare Centre residents having fun together decorating cupcakes during Senior Citizen’s Week. Mingling and socialising and enjoying the cupcakes and tea together afterwards

Getting into the Christmas spirit with Christmas Craft activity sessions making Christmas decorations for the Heritage Manor Christmas tree.

Some completed decorationsEveryone getting together and participating

• Daily activities including sports games, exercise, creative activities, board games, quizzes, pampering, movies, sensory stimulation through flower arranging and more

• Celebrations together with others at the Hat Tea party• Enjoying music together

STILL TO COME:

• Carol singing by the Helderberg

International School•Visit from The Bay

Family ChurchChildren from Wippie Snippie pre-school singing and dancing for the

residents at Onrus Manor HCC

Children giving gifts to the residents at Onrus Manor HCC

Flower Arranging

Residents singing together

Bus trip to Kirstenbosch Gardens

Bingo!Singing

and dancing by the Golden

Companions at a special

event in healthcare.

Green fingers and creativity with flower arrangements for the dining tables in healthcare made by the healthcare residents.

STILL TO COME:• OUTINGS TO THE

BEACH • MUSIC

CONCERTS

faircare trust december newsletter

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