the Family Home

SUMMER 2021

Hello Family and Friends

Happy New Year – we are hoping for an uneventful year this year.

Despite COVID19 restrictions we managed to enjoy the festive season. Thank you to everyone who attended the party, it made a special day even more special!

Many many photos were taken at the party, we have ordered them in collage poster form. When they arrive they will be hung on the wall. If you would like copies of any photos please email office@irwell and we will email you the photos.

During 2020 we said goodbye to some of our Irwell Family (both Resident's and Staff) due to many reasons, we welcomed many new ones as well.

Cecelia has taken over the Activity programme introducing many new and exciting things for the resident's to enjoy.

Some Housekeeping reminders.

Please can you keep us updated when your contact details change? It is better to send an email to office@irwell.co.nz with all updates.

If you are going away on Holiday it would be helpful for us to know as well as being given a contact number to use in the event of an emergency.

Please, please remember to get a Staff Member to lock you out if visiting after 5pm, this is an on-going issue that we need your cooperation in- this is for your relatives safety as well as staff.

If a Resident asks you to take them somewhere please do not do this.

Once again all the best for 2021 – be like all of us please cross everything (fingers, toes, arms etc.) that we do not see anymore lockdowns.

Take care till next time

Residents, Staff and Management

It seems years ago since I posted a newsletter on our site! All of you jwould have been receiving our sometimes daily emails regarding visiting, what resident's have been up to etc. etc.

Hopefully we will not have to go into a lockdown again. They are an extremely stressful situation to be in when in a rest home. It is like we are living on tenterhooks.

Remember to contact us with any queries.

Take care all of you.

To Family of Resident's

As you will be aware there has been much media coverage around the recent outbreak of the current novel coronavirus (COVID-19), with confirmed cases now in New Zealand. For current status and information about this outbreak please refer to the MOH website:

https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

Our aim is to ensure the safety of our Resident's and Staff. For this to happen it is essential all visitors follow MOH guidelines

If you have been overseas visiting Countries now on high alert we ask you do not visit the rest home till you have self quantined for 14 days and only if you are 100% well after this time you are able to visit.

If you have any illness, cough, cold, sore throat, diareah etc. we ask you do not visit till you and all those you live with are completely symptom free for 5 days.

If you are unsure please phone the rest home for advice. (04) 383 8485

Upon entering Irwell please use the sanitiser in pump bottle and again when you leave

Fill in the Visitor's Book when entering and leaving

Thank you

Regards

Resident's, Staff and Management

the Family Home

SUMMER 2020

Hello Family and Friends

Happy New Decade!

We had an enjoyable festive season at Irwell starting with Island Brownies who came and sung to the Resident's. Island Bay Presbyterian church came and sung Christmas Carols to all of us on Christmas Eve which was a very moving experience for some!

Our Christmas Party was the best yet – so much fun, laughter and great food!

We had an enjoyable Christmas lunch and had a noisy fun-filled celebration lunch on New Years day.

There are 250 new photos on the walls – if you would like copies please email office@irwell with the photos you would like and we will email the copies to you.

During 2019 we said goodbye to some old friends which was a sad time for us all, on a brighter note six of our staff gave birth to 6 healthy babies 4 girls and 2 boys. So many baby showers, games and lots of teddy-bears. We have new staff to cover for maternity leave, come and say hello to the new staff.

Julia has discussed with the Resident's what they would like to be added to the activity programme, Resident's suggestions are going to be incorporated into the new programme.

One of the Resident's favourite are the visits from SPCA and thearapy dogs, the animals being such joy into their lives.

The Resident's who enjoy knitting spend some time knitting blankets for the animals living at the SPCA.

The Resident's Meetings have begun for the year. There is a schedule of meetings on the Activity Officers office door, you are welcome and we encourage you to attend.

Some Housekeeping reminders.

Please can you keep us updated when your contact details change? It is better to send an email to office@irwell.co.nz with all updates.

If you are going away on Holiday it would be helpful for us to know as well as being given a contact number to use in the event of an emergency.

Please, please remember to get a Staff Member to lock you out if visiting after 5pm, this is an on-going issue that we need your cooperation in- this is for your relatives safety as well as staff.

If a Resident asks you to take them somewhere please discuss this with a Registered Staff member BEFORE taking them.

Once again all the best for 2020 Take care till next time

Residents, Staff and Management

the Family Home

SPRING 2019

Hello to all Family and Friends of Irwell.

Isn't it great to feel the warmth of the sun again. Sometimes you feel like winter is endless and 'when will it end'?

The high rainfall in Wellington during winter made us feel we would develop webbed feet! And.... we won't mention all the Southerly storms. Truth be told though it is a pleasant feeling being inside in the warmth knowing how cold and miserable it is outside.

The wet weather did not stop us from enjoying the activities, daily quizz and newspaper reading, entertainers including singers, dancers etc. Baking and decorating cupcakes is one of the favourites!

We also, surprisingly still managed to go on many drives around the familiar sights in Wellington.

We thoroughly enjoyed the children from Owhiro Bay School visiting us, their singing was outstanding, the resident's and staff enjoyed this visit immensely.

Resident's are enjoying their monthly meetings, this a good time for them to give feedback and have input into various routines. We encourage you to come and participate in the meetings as well.

One 'house-keeping' item we would like to mention is to please remember to get a Staff Member to lock you out if visiting after 5pm, this is an on-going issue that we need your cooperation in – thanks.

Take care till next time

Residents, Staff and Management

the Family Home

Hello Family and Friends

Autumn is a lovely colourful time of year.

The nights are growing longer and cooler, but what a pleasant summer we've had!

We will soon be administering Flu Vaccinations. Each year the majority of our residents' and a high

number of staff have the Flu Vaccine as an effective means of protecting ourselves and each other

from Influenza. To check if you are eligible for a free immunisation and for more information

about keeping yourself and family free from the flu – visit the Ministry of Health website:

http://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/influenza.

Another way

about keeping yourself and family free from the flu – visit the Ministry of Health website:

http://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/influenza.

Another way of protecting the residents of our home from the spread of flu and other winter-time

respiratory illness is by asking that you do not visit if you or someone in your home is unwell. It

can be hard not to visit when your loved one is expecting you – you are welcome to telephone, or

send an email to office@irwell.co.nz, and the staff will happily pass it along for you.

We encourage open communication between residents and their families, staff and management.

Your contribution to care planning is valuable, if there is an area of care that you would like to

discuss or have more involvement in please feel free to discuss this with our Nursing staff – either

by phone, in person, or by email.(office@irwell.co.nz)

Please also be aware that our “Tell us what you think about our service” forms are available on our

reception desk. This is a great way for you to provide feedback, and offer suggestions about our

service.

With our kindest regards,

Residents, Staff

Hello Family and Friends

Happy New Year to you All!

We all hope you had an enjoyable festive season with good food, company and relaxation?

Our festivities started with the Irwell Christmas Party – WOW what a huge turnout – it was great seeing you all enjoying yoursleves.

Our Christmas Lunch was delicious thanks to Brendan and Vanessa for working so hard to provide such gastronomic delights - Ham off Bone, Roast Chicken with Roast Vegetables, Baby Carrots, Christmas Pudding with Custard, Pavalova, Ambrosia with Fresh berries, Wine, Chocolates, party poppers and crackers – such fun!!

This was repeated for New Year's day lunch including a toast to the New Year and singing of Auld Lang Syne.

Over 300 photos have been taken, these have been made into posters. If you would like copy/s of any of the photos please email office@irwell.

Julia has been busy putting a new activity programme together, Julia has discussed with the Resident's what they would like to be added, their suggestions are going to be incorporated into the new programme.

One of the Resident's favourite are the visits from SPCA and thearapy dogs, the animals being such joy into their lives.

The Resident's who enjoy knitting spend some time knitting blankets for the animals living at the SPCA.

The Resident's Meetings have begun for the year. There is a schedule of meetings on the Activity Officers office door, you are welcome to attend.

Some Housekeeping reminders.

Please can you keep us updated when your contact details change? It is better to send an email to office@irwell.co.nz with all updates.

If you are going away on Holiday it would be helpful for us to know as well as being given a contact number to use in the event of an emergency.

Please, please remember to get a Staff Member to lock you out if visiting after 5pm, this is an on-going issue that we need your cooperation in- this is for your relatives safety as well as staff.

If a Resident asks you to take them somewhere please discuss this with a Registered Staff member BEFORE taking them.

Once again all the best for 2019 - Take care till next time

Residents, Staff and Management

Hello Family and Friends

Hope you haven't got sunburnt from all the sunshine we have enjoyed this Summer? Talk about a 'good' summer – it certainly made up for the so called Summer in 2017.

The Resident's managed to keep cool with extra cool drinks, ice-blocks etc. Plenty of shade from the trees was enjoyed when sitting outside.

There are new photos on the photo wall, black and white ones taken at the end of the year, ones of the Christmas party, Christmas lunch and New Year party. If you would like a copy/copies just write down which one and a copy will be arranged.

There are also photos of Valentines day party – a day of pink and red roses along with waltz by those who enjoy dancing.

Not sure if your relative has told you about Jack who visits riding his skate board? If you haven't been told, Jack is a Border Collie who can ride a skate board, absolutely amasing to see and a great hit.

Our Cooks have been busy planning our Winter menu with our Dietitian, lovely home cooked meals and homecooked baking, the aromas coming from the kitchen are amasing.

We have three staff who are undertaking their New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing

at Weltec. Our Caregivers are encouraged to undertake this training, we are very proud to have a significant percentage who have already qualified.

Remember we welcome your participation in the Resident's meetings, times and dates are displayed on the activity wall.

Thank you to all of those who get a staff member to lock the door when they leave the rest home out of hours, this ensures the safety of both Residents and Staff.

Influenza vaccinations are going to be administered to residents who have indicated they wish to receive it – this is a good time to remember not to visit if you are unwell.

If you need to discuss any matters please do so either face to face or via email – we will endeavour to answer questions you have.

Take care till next time

Residents, Staff and Management

Merry Christmas to you ALL!

We are having our Christmas Party / Variety Concert on Thursday 21st December 2017 (see invitation attached), which you and your Family and Friends are invited to. It would be really good if you could spare an hour or two out of your busy schedules to attend and participate in the concert. If you or a member of your family would like to read a poem, sing or dance we would really enjoy that.

For catering purposes could you please RSVP by the 18th December 2017 either by phone, email, or 'word of mouth'. Can you please pass this information on to all your Family (including Siblings) to ensure everyone can enjoy the celebration.

Along with the invitation to the Christmas Party there is a form for you to fill in if your Relative is going out for Christmas and or New Years day meals. We really, really appreciate this form being filled in, it just helps on the day (one of the busiest days in the year to ensure Residents are ready in time for their relative to collect them).

Hope to see you and yours on the 21st December

Kindest Regards from the Irwell Family

Hopefully you have endured the wet winter without too much difficulty? We all keep saying “Summer is nearly here” but also have fingers crossed it is better than last Summer!

We have been keeping the Resident's busy with a variety of activities celebrating events, inviting guest speakers, musicians, the SPCA, as well as local schools and the brownies who put on performances, dancing and singing etc. The resident's really enjoy the members of the local community coming especially the school children, brownies and SPCA.

Put in your diaries the 21st December, this is the day of our Christmas party, we will send invitations out sooner to the time.

We need to continue to provide a good level of care to your relative, to ensure this happens we need feedback from families, relatives and friends.

We have attached to this newsletter is a Satisfaction Survey hoping you can take the time to fill this in and either return via post, fax or hand it to a staff member.

It is very good for us to receive feedback on our service.

Take care.

Regards

Irwell Team

Its hard to believe Christmas was just on two months ago, it takes many weeks to plan for the day and it is over in a blink of an eye. The Christmas party was a great success as was Christmas and New Year's day parties. If you haven't yet looked at the photos remember to do so when you next visit. If you would like copies just leave your name with the Receptionist.

We began the New Year with a new and exciting activity programme, Julia has been hard at work to update the programme. If you would like input into any part of the programme don't hesitate to mention this. You are all welcome to attend the Resident's monthly meetings, dates for the meetings are on the message boards.

We enjoyed Valentines day party with lots of games and music entertainer singing some well known songs where everyone could join in. The Valentines party was a time to celebrate on of our Resident's birthdays, very significant one at that (well over 100 years young).

Once again if you would like any photos of the valentines party just ask.

Residents are enjoying the new menus developed in conjunction with our Dietitian. We cater for so many likes and dlislikes the Resident's have as well as special dietary requirements for medical and ethnic/religious reasons. Over the years we have noticed a change in the eating habits of the elderly person, it is an exciting challenge to fulfill their expectations.

Early January we had the Ministry of Health unannounced surveillance audit, all went extremely well, the Auditors were very impressed with the comments and feedback they received from Residents, Relatives and visiting professionals.

We have had a few staff changes this year, some staff have decided to attend tertiary education which we wish them well. Please make yourself known to the new staff when you see them.

One 'house-keeping' item we would like to mention is to please remember to get a Staff Member to lock you out if visiting after 5pm, this is an on-going issue that we need your cooperation in – thanks.

Take care till next time

Residents, Staff and Management

Dear Families/ Whanau

The nights are growing longer and cooler, but what a wonderful summer we've had! The new year

already seems to be flying by, with only 284 sleeps until Christmas!

We will soon be administering Flu Vaccinations. Each year the majority of our residents' and a high

number of staff have the Flu Vaccine as an effective means of protecting ourselves and each other

from Influenza. To check if you are eligible for a free immunisation and for more information

about keeping yourself and family free from the flu – visit the Ministry of Health website:

http://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/influenza.

Another way of protecting the residents of our home from the spread of flu and other winter-time

respiratory illness is by asking that you do not visit if you or someone in your home is unwell. It

can be hard not to visit when your loved one is expecting you – you are welcome to telephone, or

send an email to office@irwell.co.nz, and the staff will happily pass it along for you.

Just a friendly reminder: When visiting your loved one please remember to correctly enter the date

and time of your visit in the visitor's book at reception when you arrive, and enter the time when

you are leaving. It's important for us to maintain an accurate record of who is in the house in case

of emergency.

Our Activity Programme continues to be popular among Residents. The weekday programme has

something for everyone, kicking off with the daily exercise class - a great way to get the circulation

flowing. Our weekly drives continue with multiple destinations. Often providing a chance for

those participating to reminisce about their experiences in Wellington and keep an eye on

development around the city. Our 'Happy Hours' and visiting entertainers are always well received.

Next week staff and residents alike will be “going green” as we celebrate St Patricks Day in style.

The kitchen staff continue to deliver, with delicious home cooked meals. Meeting the diverse needs

and wants of our residents. John and Heather continue to personally select our fresh produce

weekly from the Farmer's Market. Menus and food are always a popular topic at the monthly

resident's meetings and the requests and comments are always passed on to the Kitchen Staff. We

encourage resident's to let the kitchen staff know if they would prefer an alternative to the menu –

the cooks are happy to accommodate.

We encourage open communication between residents and their families, staff and management.

Your contribution to care planning is valuable, if there is an area of care that you would like to

discuss or have more involvement in please feel free to discuss this with our Nursing staff – either

by phone, in person, or by email.(office@irwell.co.nz)

Please also be aware that our “Tell us what you think about our service” forms are available on our

reception desk. This is a great way for you to provide feedback, and offer suggestions about our

service.

With our kindest regards,

Residents, Staff and Management of Irwell.

Dear Families/ Whanau

Spring, has sprung! In theory, at least. The cool start to Spring didn't stop us from celebrating the new season in style with our annual Spring Party. Filled with fun, games, music and all the colours of the season. The best dressed prizes, appropriate for the cooler start to the season, were lovely polar fleece blankets.

In follow up to our family survey, the feedback was overall, extremely positive – thank you for this. It was wonderful to hear the positive stories of how your loved ones have settled, and the great feedback about staff. For those of you who would like more information about the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights – please help yourself to a pamphlet from our reception desk, alternatively please ask a staff member. A poster outlining the Rights is, as always, displayed in our foyer.

Our Activity Programme continues to be popular among Residents – The weekday programme is kicked off each morning with exercises in the Seaview lounge – a great way to get the circulation flowing. We have recently enjoyed a visit from the local Brownies, its always great to see the connection between older people and the young from our community. We also enjoyed a visit from some young pups from the SPCA, during which our knitting circle were able to donate their winters work to the deserving cause. Our weekly drives continue, with multiple destinations, often providing a chance for those participating to reminisce about their experiences in Wellington and keep an eye on development around the city. Activities are being provided on weekend afternoons, by our care staff.

As expected, the Resident feed back from our Menu Survey was very positive. The Kitchen staff take great pride in their commitment to meeting the needs, likes and dislikes of our residents and this was reflected in the survey. Our annual dietician audit of the menu's was also very positive.

We encourage open communication between residents and their families, staff and management. Your contribution to care planning is valuable, if there is an area of care that you would like to discuss or have more involvement in please feel free to discuss this with our Nursing staff – either by phone, in person, or by email.(office@irwell.co.nz)

Please also be aware that our “Tell us what you think about our service” forms are available on our reception desk. This is a great way for you to provide feedback, and offer suggestions about our service. You can also find Complaint/ Concerns/ Compliment forms at the reception desk – if you would like any additional information about our complaints process please to contact us.

Till next time.

Kindest Regards

Residents, Staff and Management

Dear Families/ Whanau

With snow fall in the region it must well be time for our Winter News letter.

Thank you to those of you who completed and returned our Family Survey – Your input is very valuable to us. The returned surveys have now been collated and a summary of your feed back will be discussed at our upcoming, monthly, Quality Improvement meeting. If you were unable to return your survey and would like to offer us some feed back there are forms on our reception desk that can be completed – “Tell us what you think about us”.

After much anticipation our new phone system is up and running! The new system will ensure that calls are answered in a timely fashion. Being digital, our new phone system allows for the use of portable phones to be used in all corners of our home – which had previously not been possible due to our location. The system also allows for callers to transfer themselves through to their desired extension – please ask staff about how to do this.

Our Activity Programme continues to be popular among Residents – some choosing their preferred activities to attend, and many making a day of it! Twice weekly Happy Hours tend to get a full house and our Friday afternoon musical entertainment and Sing A Longs are wonderful to listen to, those timeless classic songs seem to be retained for life and are recalled in an instant!

We recently celebrated Mid Winter Christmas with a delicious Christmas meal and Christmas themed activities. The day was enjoyed by residents and staff alike.

The Resident initiated and run discussion group continues on Saturday mornings with fluctuating attendance numbers – this is a marvelous initiative providing a forum for Residents to come together and discuss matters, movies, books, current affairs … among peers. Please speak to staff if you think this is something your loved one might be interested in attending – so they can assist them to attend the group.

Our winter menu is now in use and is, as always,being well received. We are due to undertake our Resident Feedback survey for our menus this month. From the outcome of our Residents' Meetings it is clear how important our menus and meal service are to our Residents, so their feed back provides a valuable tool for our planning.

Being the season of colds 'n' flu we appreciate your understanding and cooperation in not visiting if you or someone in your home is unwell. Feel free to ring and speak to your loved one or have a message passed on to them if you are unable to visit.

Till next time.

Keep Warm!

Kindest Regards

Residents, Staff and Management

Dear Families

Once again we have had some 'rocking and rolling' (Earthquakes) fortunately they were not

too severe. They are a timely reminder to us to ensure out emergency supplies are available and all up to date.

In March the Staff and Resident's had their 6 monthly Fire Evacuation and Emergency Preparedness education sessions. The fire safety officer from NZ Fire Safety came and gave the residents a talk about fire safety and what role they would play if an emergency were to occur at the rest home. Once the fire safety officer left there was quite lively discussions on this topic. The Residents received instructions on what to do in the event of the fire alarm, in the event of an earthquake, what to do if they found one of their fellow residents on the floor etc. Most found it very informative. As said above these discussions occur 6 monthly, if you are interested in attending the next one ask the Activity Officer for details.

The Residents who enjoy knitting are getting their needles out once again, they will begin knitting more blankets for the SPCA. If you have any wool it would be really great if you could drop off any bits and bobs you have, it will be put to good use.

Flu vaccinations have been administered. We want to ensure the residents are not exposed to unnecessary risk of influenza, common colds and other nasty winter-time bugs so please do not visit if you are unwell OR if you have been around people who are unwell.

It is really important to stop the spread of infection by isolating those who are unwell.

New menus have been put into circulation and are being met with huge applause, the delicious aromas coming out from the kitchen are a big tease to those of us who won't be consuming.

Remember you are welcome to attend the resident's meetings held once a month, the meeting schedule is on the wall of the Activity Officer's office.

Till next time.

Kindest Regards

Residents, Staff and Management

Dear Families

In the Activity Programme's general discussion this week a Resident asked if it was possible for a swimming pool could be put in the backyard, when asked if they usually swam the Resident replied they hadn't swum for over 50 years!! They just thought it would be nice for everyone else.

Summer certainly has been one out of the box, it is hard to remember when Wellington experienced such perfect weather for a such a long period.

Along with the warm weather comes the requirement to drink more, encouraging the residents to increase their fluid intake is quite difficult, it would be a great help if you could help us in encouraging them to drink more.

Thanks to all of you who attended the Christmas Party, it seemed everyone had a really great time. All the yummy chocolates and other delectable received were much appreciated.

Thanks to everyone who donated their bits and pieces of wool. The SPCA visited during our spring party, the blankets the residents had knitted were presented to them. The SPCA staff were absolutely delighted to receive them. When you're next in have a look at the photos on the wall of the Spring Party, they are really great.

To advise you the Resident's Meetings have begun for the year. There is a schedule of meetings on the Activity Officers office door, you are welcome to attend.

A gentle reminder to those of you who visit out of hours please ensure you get staff to lock the door behind you.

Many thanks till next time.

Kindest Regards

Residents, Staff and Management

Merry Christmas to you ALL!

Christmas is getting close although it feels as though we have just packed the Christmas Decorations away from last year! Christmas and New Year's day are on Wednesday this year.

We are having a Christmas Party / Variety Concert on Tuesday 23rd December 2014 (see invitation attached). It would be really good if you could spare an hour or two out of your busy schedules to attend. For catering purposes could you please RSVP by the 18th December 2014 either by phone, email, or 'word of mouth'. Can you please pass this information on to all your Family (including Siblings) to ensure everyone can enjoy the celebration.

Along with the invitation to the Christmas Party there is a form for you to fill in if your Relative is going out for Christmas and or New Years day meals. We really, really appreciate this form being filled in, it just helps on the day (one of the busiest days in the year to ensure Residents are ready in time for their relative to collect them).

Hope to see you and yours on the 23rd

Kindest Regards: Resident's, Staff, Management

Hope you have had a 'flu-free' Winter like we have? We felt it was a short, sharp, cold Winter and quite glad it is now over.

We don't need to use our alarm clocks anymore, the Tui's are waking us up with their 'morning song', the only thing not enjoyable about it is the time.....5.30am! The Tui's enjoy the flax flowers that are just on the point of 'blooming'.

Have you seen the unusual plant in our front garden? We all thought it was a flax plant just larger and a different flower, after a long investigation it was found to be a Doryanthes (Giant Spear Lily) usually found in the East Coast of Australia. In theory it should not survive in New Zealand let alone the South Coast of the North Island in a windy location! We have no idea how it ended up in our garden but it is certainly spectacular to look at.

Continuing on the 'growing/plants' theme, Julia and the Resident's planted spring bulbs and cottage garden mix in the beginning of September, the plants are coming along really well, we found a nice warm corner for them, they are thriving.

Other activities we have had recently are, Spring Festival and a Farewell party for Alice who has been a member of Irwell's Staff for the past 15 years. There was a lot of reminiscing during this party, a book “This is your Irwell life” was presented to Alice, photos of her dating back to the 2000's ,Alice was really pleased to receive this.

Our new Menus are being appreciated by the Residents, the difference in the food styles now as compared to ten years ago is amasing, Butter Chicken, Stir-fry Prawns with vegetables and rice, Frittatas etc. the Cooks love cooking the items, the Residents love eating them!

Our Residents attend a meeting each month, this is where they can 'air their views' on any subject they wish to. Relatives of the Residents are welcome to attend the meetings (meeting timetables are on the wall near Julia's office).

Please remember not to visit if you or someone in your household is or has been unwell in the past seven days. We need to keep the Residents and Staff free from illness as much as possible, please remember to use the sanitiser when entering and leaving the facility.

Please, please remember to get a Staff Member to lock you out if visiting after 5pm, this is an on-going issue that we need your cooperation in – thanks.

Kindest Regards

Residents, Staff and Management

the Family Home

SUMMER/AUTUMN 2014 NEWSLETTER

Dear Families

Here we are just on two months passed Christmas! Where does the time go? Thanks to all of you who attended the Christmas Party, I'm sure you will all agree it was a great success.

Julia has been keeping the Residents busy during the day with a variety of activities from knitting, small board games, cards, painting, keep fit groups etc. Most Residents enjoy participating in the Activity Programme, some attend all day every day others are more selective with their participation (having a choice is essential!). The latest photos are from our Valentines Day party. If you would like copies please don't hesitate to tell a staff member which photos you would like OR drop off a memory stick so they can be put on to that.

Residents are enjoying the new menus developed in conjunction with our Dietician, difficult to ensure all needs are met and the menu is varied covering all food groups etc, it appears we have done it.

Residents Meetings are continuing to be held Monthly, please feel free to attend the meetings, Julia has dates and times on display around the Facility.

Early February we had the Ministry of Health unannounced surveillance audit, all went well, the Auditors were very impressed with the comments and feedback they received from Residents, Relatives and visiting professionals.

We are going to have the Influenza Vaccination in two weeks time, consent forms will be available for the Residents to sign OR for their EPOA to sign on their behalf.

Please remember not to visit if you or someone in your household is or has been unwell in the past seven days. We need to keep the Residents and Staff free from illness as much as possible, please remember to use the sanitiser when entering and leaving the facility.

Please, please remember to get a Staff Member to lock you out if visiting after 5pm, this is an on-going issue that we need your cooperation in – thanks.

Kindest Regards

Residents, Staff and Management

Dear Families

Hoping this Newsletter finds you all well?

Talk about an eventful Winter! Severe storms, Major Earthquake not one but two!

Fortunately the only damage suffered was a small tile broken during the June storm.

With regards to the earthquakes nothing fell off shelves or off the walls, which everyone was amased at due to the severeness of the earthquakes especially the July 21st one. Hopefully we have seen the last of them for a while.

We were very proud of the Residents and Staff for the way they have coped with these significant events. There was no panicking, the appropriate processes were followed resulting in no injuries.

We are very happy to once again report there have been no cases of influenza at the rest home this winter which we are very pleased about. Thankyou to all those who remembered not to visit if they were sick.

During Winter some of our Residents were very busy knitting blankets for the animals living at the SPCA. They will be presenting their blankets to the SPCA when they visit next week.

A huge amount of effort is put in to make all this possible, some residents haven't knitted for years, sometimes the arthritic joints are not impressed! Grateful thanks to families who have donated wool and other fabrics used for the blankets.

If you do have spare wool no longer needed it would be gratefully received.

Security: Once again Visitors are letting themselves out of the Rest Home when the doors are locked in the Evenings. Please wait for a Staff Member to let you out and lock the door behind you. There is a bell on the Reception Desk. Leaving without having the door locked after you is putting the Residents and Staff at risk.

Please remember to check out all the new photos on the walls, copies are available for anyone who wants them, just ask one of the Staff to make a note of what you want.

Take care, till next time from

Staff and Management

Dear Families

Hoping this Newsletter finds you all well?

Great Summer this year, hopefully you have been able to enjoy it.

Like you all we have been conserving as much water as possible, it has been very entertaining listening to ideas some of the Residents have with regards water conservation.

Easter Party

We had a great time at the recent Easter party/celebration (anything for an excuse for a party). Easter Egg hunt, Easter Bonnet parade, yummy food and drink, best dressed walker. We really had fun and hope you did as well?

(check out the photos).

The SPCA visited once again, this is something the Residents really enjoy (although we are tempted to keep some of the animals).

Infection Control: The Residents have received their Influenza Vaccination for the year. This is a timely reminder to you all to ensure you do not visit the Rest Home if you or you have been around anyone who has been unwell. It is not pleasant for both Residents and Staff when an 'outbreak' occurs so we need to ensure we reduce all the risks.

Security: Once again Visitors are letting themselves out of the Rest Home when the doors are locked in the Evenings. Please wait for a Staff Member to let you out and lock the door behind you. There is a bell on the Reception Desk. Leaving without having the door locked after you is putting the Residents and Staff at risk.

Please remember to check out all the new photos on the walls, copies are available for anyone who wants them, just ask one of the Staff to make a note of what you want.

Take care, till next time from

Staff and Management

Hi everyone, once again.

We have been really busy over Winter (aside from keeping warm).

Our knitting group made heaps of Peggy squares, our 'sewers' sewed them up, last Monday we presented them to the SPCA, it was a very special moment. The SPCA brought up several animals we could cuddle, Puppies, Bunnies, Kittens (we had to ensure they were all taken away, a lot of us fell in love with them).

The other things we have been up to:

Mid Winter Party where we all dressed up in our finery, ate, drank and were 'merry'

Irwell 'Olympic Games' starting with a March pass then at the end a Medal Ceremony followed by a feast.

Visits from other Rest Homes and Elderly Day Centres for Bowls competitions, Trivial Pursuit and concerts.

When you next visit please spend time looking at all the great photos of these special days.

Our Singing Group is getting very good, we have 'resident' musicians which help keep us in tune.

Some weeks we have not been able to go for our rides due to the weather, fortunately this did not happen too often.

We had a sad time in June, Spike our 'beloved and faithful' Dog passed away very peacefully he was 14 years old, which is not to bad for a large dog. Spike was with us since our first Christmas here 1998.

On a more positive note we are pleased to announce we had NO cases of influenza or any other outbreaks of infections over Winter, thanks to all of you who did not visit when unwell.

Remember to put your clocks forward at the end of the month! YAY! Summers almost here!!

The debate about Global Warming is still on-going although it does make you think 'what on earth is going on with the weather'!

We had a great festive season with our end of year party where many many family, friends, relatives, staff and their families attended and had a lot of fun. Each year it just seems to get bigger and better, so much talent is seen.

Our RN Anna had her beautiful new baby, a great big bouncing baby Boy (just on 9lbs), Anna is off on Maternity Leave until June. Anna's baby makes a total of 6 babies born in the last 12 months to Staff at Irwell!

We have just had our Influenza Vaccinations, it is a timely reminder to ask you not to visit if you or anyone you live with are or have been unwell in the previous 48 hour period. This is for the safety sake of not only Residents BUT Staff as well.

For our Easter celebrations there were a group of 'crafty' Residents who made Easter Bonnets which were worn for the Easter party celebrations, other ways we celebrated were with the pass the parcel game, Easter Egg hunt (several still are not accounted for)! Finishing off the day with a glass of wine and sing-song – GREAT!

The Residents are still enjoying their twice weekly journeys out and about the local and wider Wellington Region visiting many exciting places. (one of the favourite is the drive-through to get ice-creams).

Each Sunday after lunch we have begun a small singing group (Residents and Staff) who do a small performance, with everyone joining in. This is usually followed by a movie with popcorn and lollipops!

We have a great library of DVD's now!

We do have vacancy for long-term or short-term stays, it is important to have this service available especially over the Winter months.

Take care everyone!

The first half of this year has almost gone with what feels like the speed of light!

We had a fabulous Festive Season, lots of parties, visitors, good food and heaps of fun! Thanks to the many family, friends and visitors who helped make the time so much fun.

It was with disbelief seeing the devastation that occurred in Christchurch during the February 22nd Earthquake. One of the major issues for Irwell along with all other Aged Care Facilities in Wellington was assisting to look after the many Elderly Evacuees from Christchurch who required urgent admission to other facilities due to the damage suffered to their Christchurch facility. It was a situation never before experienced but one which we all coped with well (especially the Evacuees).

One month after the devastating Earthquake a 'mufti day' was held. Staff and Residents were encouraged to wear red and black clothing along with red and Black ribbons, some Staff went all out and had red and black face art-work painted on them Each Staff member and Residents who wished to gave a donation towards the Earthquake appeal.

A total of $1,000 was raised, after a lot of thought the money was donated to Addington Primary School. The Children decided to hold a Community Breakfast and invited the Emergency Services along who helped them on the day of the Earthquake. The Children sent us Photos and Cards of the day.

The Children wrote they will use money left over from the Breakfast to purchase games they can play on wet days. The Residents were really excited at getting the Photos and Cards, they were very pleased to see the money donated giving some joy to the Children.

While watching all the footage of the Earthquake it quickly became apparent the Civil Defense recommendation of having 3 days supplies in house-hold survival pack was not nearly enough it appeared 10 – 14 days was a more realistic requirement. With this in mind Irwell decided to increase their emergency disaster equipment/supplies/water to this level. We hope we never have to use the contents though but comforting to know it is there just in case we have to.

Trust you are all well?

We had a very busy Summer this year with planting a cottage garden which looked fabulous and colourful.

Our sight-seeing trips around the bays complete with ice-cream stops along the way were enjoyed by everyone (we were doing this several times a week making use of the fine days).

The warm and sunny weather lasting long into Autumn was a bonus BUT the onset of winter has been a bit abrupt to say the least (while the newsletter is being written the radio has just announced it is SNOWING in Karori!) brrrrrr

The menus have been updated slightly to take into account the change in temperature. Our home cooked meals with plenty of choices bring many positive comments from Residents and their Family members so we don't want to make any drastic changes. Our Cooks Susan and Rowan bake really yummy stuff for Afternoon Tea (you should see their Muffins and Scones WOW!).

Rebecca and Brendan are our Activity Officer's. They develop an interesting programme with the help of the Residents, this ensures what they plan is what the Residents want! Some of the favourite things are

Bingo

Exercises

Crosswords and Word-find Quizz

In-door Bowls

In-door Golf

Happy Hour is pretty popular as well

Five of our Staff recently graduated with their qualification National Certificate in Elderly Care. We celebrated this with a lavish afternoon tea followed by the presentation of Badges and Certificates.

In early July we are going to have another mid winter party with a United Nations theme Idol concert so planning is already underway with that.

Take care and KEEP WARM!

- Residents and Staff

Boy o Boy wasn't it a decent winter? Talk about Southerly Storms they just seemed to go on and on for ever.

Our view from the Seaview Lounge as you know looks out over Cook Strait, this view proved a great source of entertainment during the Southerly Storms watching the poor inter-island ferries attempting to cross the strait in 3mtr swells, we even saw one ferry having to turn back due to the large swell, we later found out the swells were over 7mtrs that day.

We have fortunately escaped any influenza this year (so far and I'm writing this with fingers crossed). The advertisements run by the Ministry of Health on Influenza advising the public the way it is spread has certainly assisted with stopping any influenza coming into the building as well our 'entertaining' posters at the entrance way.

Our Irwell Idol competition went well as did our Mid-winter Christmas, both Residents and Staff joined in with some wonderful skits, judging them was extremely difficult, a lot of effort had been put in, practicing, costumes etc. But there had to be a winner and that was Margaret who sung a 'rendition' of “How much is that Doggy in the Window” accompanied by the Dog called “Kev”.

We also had Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, Flo-jo the poet, 'Bountiful Beryl', The Irwell Bell ringers quartet, Momma-Mia Teresa, plus so many more who were “Absolutely Fabulous”!!!

There are some really great photos of the day which you really need to come and look at.

Our knitting group are going really well with lovely bits and bobs being knitted. If you have any wool you no longer need we are only too willing to take it off your hands although for the Neo-nates it needs to be 100% wool (no acrylic allowed).

Take care until next time

Regards

Residents, Staff and Management

As you are all aware of the H1N1 Influenza Virus is particularly contageous, as is the seasonal influenza, common cold, stomach bugs. Please remember not to visit if you are unwell, it is also important to remember not to visit if you have been in close contact with someone who has been unwell in the past 48 hours. It not only the Residents we need to protect but the Staff as well, if Staff become unwell then staffing levels become significantly stretched.

Thank you for remembering to sanitize your hands when entering the Rest Home, remember to do the same when leaving.

If you do become unwell particularly with influenza within 6 days of visiting please let us know.

To lift our Spirits we are holding an “Irwell Idol” concert with a Midwinter Christmas theme. This will be held on the 31st July with a 2pm start. We would love you to come and enjoy the fun. We of course expect you to participate as well (although we won't force you to do so).

The concert will involve both Residents and Staff and will be followed with an afternoon tea.

The Residents are beginning to knit some items for the neo nats at Wellington Maternity Hospital Special Care Unit. The items need to be in 100% pure wool, it you have any balls or even ½ balls you no longer need the Residents would be grateful for them.

We hope you will be able to come to our concert.

Regards from us all

Hello to you

Hope you enjoyed our reasonable Summer with plenty of sun-bathing, B.B.Q's and holiday memories to keep you going through winter, which I feel could be a long and cold one.

We have a new and very exciting Activity Programme up and running which the Residents are enjoying. Visits from the SPCA, local Music Artists, lots of Crafts, Celebrating different Nationalities of the World (Irwell has Residents from 11 different Countries and 8 Staff from different Countries) definitely making us a 'Mini United Nations'. Later in the Month we are going to have all staff dress in their National Costumes which I'm sure will be a colourful experience for us. (Keep an eye on the Activity Programme, remember you are always welcome to join in).We hope you are enjoying looking at the photos on the walls in the corridors, the Residents look really great, we will continue to display photos when special events are held. Copies of the photos can be arranged, just write down your name and photos wanted and give to one of the staff.

Our goal for this year is for Care Staff to complete their National Certificate in care of the Older Person (those staff who have not already done so). Staff are very keen to achieve this qualification and are putting a lot of time and effort into their studies but the benefit to us all will be worth it. Once they have finished their studies there will be a Graduation ceremony in the Wellington Town Hall where Certificates and Badges will be handed out by Wellington Mayor.

We have two issues of concern that needs to be brought to your attention:

Security:

The main doors are locked at 5.30pm and door 'alarmed' this is for the safety and security of Residents and Staff. Despite notices on the doors asking Visitors to get a Staff member to lock the door after them this is not happening or Visitors are letting the Residents lock the doors after they go! This is really not safe. When you are ready to leave ring the bell on the front counter and wait for a staff member to come – thanks

Infection Control:

Once again it is the 'flu' season with plenty of coughs, colds, tummy upsets 'doing the rounds' we ask you to stay away from the Rest Home if you are unwell or you have been near someone who has been unwell in the past 48 hours. In the entry foyer there is a stand with hand-gel on, you need to use this before entering the Home and when leaving, good hand hygiene reduces the spread of infection.

Surveys:

We need to continue to provide a good level of care to your relative and to ensure this happens we need feedback from families/friends. For this reason attached to this newsletter is a Satisfaction Survey. We hope you can take the time to fill this in and either return via post, fax or put into the basket on the reception counter.

It is very good for us to receive feedback on our service.

Thank you, take care, stay warm and safe –

kind regards from Staff and Management

Well we cannot say the Winter was mild can we?

We survived, keeping snug and warm smugly thinking to ourselves when visitors arrived “Glad its them and not Us out there”.

We have kept the Residents busy with their daily activities, exercises, games and ending the day with a happy hour to warm the "cockles of ones heart".

The Staff who were doing their National Certificate attended the graduation ceremony to receive their badges and certificates. It was a special moment for a lot of them, and their families were very proud of them.

We are excited with the growth of the new plants and native trees that we planted way back in January 2007, they have grown so much.

This time of year is a busy time getting the grounds prepared for summer.

The Residents have been busy with their raised gardens, they are looking really lovely and colourful.

We look forward to the regular visits from the young children and babies, The Residents in particular enjoy having the younger generation visit.

The intense rivalry between outside groups and Irwell is still happening, especially with regards to the Bowls games. Irwell does very well and wins a lot of the games (we have some extremely talented players). Still not sure whether the groups from outside come for the bowls or to sample our Cook's delicious cakes that they bake for afternoon tea.

Thanks to those of you for the feed back you give, we all really appreciate getting it.

Christmas is fast approaching again, we have already begun organising for the festivities, making sure decorations are is good working condition. Staff are practicing for their performances. You will be advised closer to the time of dates etc.

There is room for long term or respite care (but very limited) so please book early.

Take care, kind regards

Residents, Staff, Heather & John

Irwell Rest Home

Caring for the Elderly in a Family Environment

The only problem with Summer ending and Autumn being here is the gardens are beginning to grow once again.

The Residents gardens are looking just fabulous, thanks to Joyce, Ron and team the colours are just fantastic, its really lovely sitting in the Dining Room and TV lounge looking out on the gardens they have created – well done to them!

Mike's been busy with the craft group once again (with help of other Staff), producing lovely paintings, knitting, crochet, needle work. The residents who participate look forward to this activity.

Bowls is still one of the most favoured activities at the Rest Home, we have regular visitors coming and participating in a game or two. We hope to ensure this involvement with other Rest Homes and Day Centres continues.

Our Staff have finished their National Cert now and awaiting their graduation parade, being held at the Michael Fowler Centre in July. We have another group of 7 staff beginning their National Cert.

Just a note of 'Housekeeping':

When you are leaving the Rest Home after 6.00pm you need to get a Staff member to lock the door after you – this is extremely important for the safety and security of Residents and Staff, we thank you for your cooperation in this.

Also...

If you, your family or you have been around someone who is ill especially with a Gastro enteritis or Influenza infection please stay away from the Rest Home for a minimum of 3 days. Feel free to phone and check with staff any concerns with regards to this request. The whole aim is to reduce the risk of Residents and Staff getting unwell.

Take care now and remember to add that extra blanket to your bed !!

Kindest regards

Residents, Staff, Heather and John

Hello how are you

I'm sure you are feeling wind-blown like we all are with October being one of the windiest we have had for many years. One good thing about the wind it sure does blow the old winter cob-webs away!

We were fortunate to be kept busy with our daily Activities and keep Nice and Warm with the sun streaming in on sunny Days so we didn't notice the bad weather too much.

During September we begun having weekly art classes using water colours as the primary media. Work being produced at these classes is just fantastic! We have it displayed around the corridors so everyone can see the work being achieved by Residents who thought they could not paint at all.

Also in September we had a Spring Festival. The Seaview Lounge was decorated to resemble a spring garden, flowers, butterflies, bumblebees etc. There were a lot of games, music, quizzes and to end up with, a delicious Devonshire Tea plus other 'delightful delectables ' to eat.

We celebrated Melbourne Cup day with a Fashion Parade, horse games and related quizzes then watched the race while sipping on a wine and having some nibbles. It didn't really matter who won, the atmosphere was enough for us to enjoy.

As mentioned in the previous Newsletter several of our Staff were doing training for their National Certificate in Care of the Older person – well they have all completed their studies and passed with 'flying colours' and are eagerly awaiting the graduation ceremony in the Town Hall. There is another group who begun their certificate in August, they are being encouraged and given support by the first group who have just graduated.

We are getting prepared for Christmas, which is fast approaching, decorations being organised, Christmas lights being checked and bulbs replaced – GREAT FUN.

Just to remind you we do provide Respite Care, Convalescing Care and Long-term care. You will need to book soon if you need Respite Care over the Christmas and New Year season.

Take care, keep safe and happy.

Kindest regards

Residents, Staff, Heather and John

Irwell Rest Home

Caring for the Elderly in a Family Environment

Hello how are you all?

The summer that we waited so patiently for has been and gone, but it was one that was worth waiting for wasn't

During the lovely weather we were able to get the gardens re-planted with native plants – 530 of them to be precise!!!! It has certainly been worth the effort, they are now starting to grow and looking really good with all the different coloured foliage and different textures and leaf shapes.

I was not impressed with Spike though, he decided to help with the gardening by digging a 'few holes'. Unfortunately it was where I had already planted some desert grasses, it was very hard telling him off because he looked so pleased with himself!

We celebrated Easter with our Easter Bonnet parade, most of the residents and staff got involved, there were some really amazing creations. This was followed by Mothers Day celebrations, with many bouquets of flowers being delivered.

Mikes been busy with the craft group once again, producing lovely paintings, doing knitting, crochet, needle work. The residents who participate look forward to this activity. The gardening group has got the raised gardens well stocked with a multitude of flowers/plants, the courtyard is looking 'blooming' lovely.

There is becoming intense rivalry with indoor bowls between Irwell and visiting teams from the Chelsea and Marsden Day Care Groups. Mike and the 'supporters' from the other team really get into the competitive spirit while these games are on. The games finish, the winning team gets congratulated, everyone becomes friends again and finish the afternoon off with a splendid afternoon tea of the homemade cakes from Eva and Susan (our Cooks).

We have several of our care staff who began their National Certificate in Care of the Older Person late last year. They are getting on well with their studies, we hope to have another group started in the next month. This is a NZAQ course, recognised throughout New Zealand. The staff who are currently going through the course are finding the knowledge they are getting is very beneficial to them.

Its lovely seeing the residents family members and it good being able to spend time having a chat, we appreciate all the feedback you give, a special thanks to those of you who assisted the Certification Auditors recently.

Please remember to book your Respite Care as soon as you can to ensure a place for your relative.

Take care now and remember to add that extra blanket to your bed !!

Kindest regards

Residents, Staff, Heather and John

Caring for the Elderly in a Family Environment

Hello...... How are you?

We are 'mostly' well and did survive winter (it was a good one wasn't it)?

Christmas is looming, a time for fun and excitement, baking cakes, decorations, family gatherings and big feasts. We have had a lot of fun making and hanging decorations (hopefully you have seen them). We have been very fortunate this Christmas Season and enjoyed visits from the Island Bay Brownies club and Houghton Valley Primary School. The children sang songs, Christmas Carols, played instruments and gave small gifts to the residents, this was very much appreciated by the residents, some of who sang along to the music.

Getting ideas from everyone on what we should eat on Christmas day is interesting. One suggestion was “forget the main just move straight into dessert” this proved very popular with some residents (and staff).

We are all looking forward to our Christmas Party afternoon tea. Residents and Staff are practicing their entertainment items they are going to share with everyone – it should be a very enjoyable afternoon.

(families attending are expected to add to the entertainment as well).

Planting our new gardens has begun. We have consulted with a Nurseryman (Fred) who has a wealth of knowledge about planting in our area. Fred gave a list of the plants that would do well here, native hebes and trees, desert grasses, etc. we have chosen a lot of these plants ensuring there is plenty of varying colours. Residents who are keen gardeners have been helping so it has been a real team effort. Already the ones that have been planted are growing very well.

Remember if you feel like a holiday we can take bookings for the Holiday Season.

Take care now.

Kindest Regards

Residents, Staff, Heather and John

“Caring for the Elderly in a Family Environment”

Have you got your chimneys swept, heaters out and hotties ready? –

After the bad snow storm in the South Island seems like we could be in for a cold winter.

We have just about finished the new landscaping and are pleased with the results. We just need a few more shrubs to finish.

The residents still really enjoy getting out and about in the van even in Winter, we wrap ourselves up well, hats, scarves, gloves etc. and then we set off to see what there is to see.

The knitting group are keeping busy with many colourful pieces of knitting being produced, we are hoping to finish a blanket that was started a 'wee' while ago. The art group are still turning out some wonderful and I must say colourful work. When you come to have a look around you will see it displayed with pride.

At present we have some rooms available for either short or long-term care as well as convalescing care.

At times we get inquiries from people wanting somewhere to go for a couple of weeks for a bit of companionship to help eliminate the 'winter blues'. We encourage this and have rooms available for this type of care so please feel free to phone up and reserve a place, 383 8485 or send us an email: office@irwell.co.nz

Keep warm and happy.

Kindest regards

Heather, John and Everyone at Irwell Rest Home

"Caring for the Elderly in a Family Environment"

Did you enjoy our Christmas Decorations this year?

Mike (activities officer) and his band of 'Merry Residents” had a great time decorating the rest home. One family member said “it looks better than Kirks”! Great compliments.

Hope your festivities went well, we had a lovely time here with entertainers visiting from mid December right through till Christmas Eve. Father Christmas arrived on Christmas morning – he even stayed for lunch!! (a real bonus).

On New Years day we had another celebratory lunch including wine, party poppers and lots of fun and laughter.

New Year is a time to welcome new people – we have had some new staff begin working here – they are slowly getting to know their way around.

We are very fortunate with our staff, such a caring bunch. We have already begun our education program for the year, the staff excited with the topics.

On one of the weekly excursions a pod of Dolphins was seen playing in the water around the bays – the residents were enthralled sitting in the van watching them.

In the latter part of the year the residents had a lovely afternoon tea at the Pines (Houghton Bay). It was a sunny and clear day and the South Island was very clear.

In the first quarter of the year (weather permitting) the front garden is going to be re-modeled. It should turn out lovely.

Remember you are most welcome to phone us anytime (04) 383 8485

– till next time

Kindest regards to you all.

Irwell Rest Home

"Caring for the Elderly in a Family Environment"

Did you all have a lovely Christmas (apart from the weather) ?.

We had a great time here, lots of presents, visitors, Christmas Carolers and food WOW our Cook Susan certainly put on a fine spread, (fit for a king).

It was lovely that some family members were able to join us for Christmas lunch, it made it that little bit more special.

We had a lovely day at the Home on Valentines Day - some of our more "Crafty" residents made red hearts and wrote special messages of love on them then presented one each to all staff and residents to wear for the day. They looked lovely.

We have started the round robbin bowls tournament, getting ready for the rest home games. So far we have won 1 game and lost 2 BUT we will never give up. We still have our 105 year old lady playing!.

We have had a couple of new Staff join us, its lovely to have them.

With the height of summer now upon us (albeit a little late) we have changed to our summer menu much to the delight of the residents. They really enjoy the choice of salads available.

Feel free to email me on heather@irwell.co.nz for any queries.

Till next time

Heather

Hasn't winter been awful so far? Here's hoping Summer will be better this year.

We received the result of the Certification and are happy to let you all know that we achieved the highest level possible.

All of the Staff are happy with the compliments received to them through the Satisfaction Survey sent out in June. The Cooks are happy with the compliments they received about their cooking especially their homemade baking.

Our activity programme is flourishing. Mike (Activity Officer) took a group of residents to the 'Art-splash' concert held at the Michael Fowler Centre last week. They all enjoyed the concert.

A Craft group has been started, knitting, crochet and painting being the most popular options. Judging by the laughter everyone attending seems to be enjoying themselves. We have a lot of talented residents who are keen to pass on their particular skills.

We recently had a 'show and tell' afternoon. It was very interesting listening to the residents and staff discussing their particular item of interest.

The new mini-bus is proving popular (judging by the long queues waiting by the front door each Monday and Friday afternoon) all residents who want to go on an outing do not miss out.

We are hoping to take residents on picnics to the Botanical Gardens, Days Bay etc this summer (weather permitting).

We value your input and encourage you to contact us anytime.

Bye for now and regards

Heather

We are currently in the progress of building a website for our rest home. Please feel free to browse through our content.

If you require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us!

From the team at Irwell.