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Christophorus HouseRetirement Village

Winter 2020Newsletter

CONTENTSEditor’s Letter 2Maintenance Matters 2Acknowledgements 2From the desk of the CEO 3Poem 3News from HF House 4Feature: 5 Simple Steps to Maximise Your Brain Health 5-6Corona perspective of a priest 7Work Health & Safety Corner 7Calendar of Events 8Quote 8

Cover photo: Tree Dahlia and Lavender

Christophorus House Retirement VillageABN 32 001 781 013Registered Office: 396 Peats Ferry Road, Hornsby NSW 2077Postal Address: PO Box 3198,Asquith NSW 2077Village Email:chrv@christophorushouse.com.auHostel Telephone: (02) 9476 3161Hostel Fax: (02) 9987 0212Hostel Email:hostelmanager@christophorushouse.com.au

Office Telephone: (02) 9476 3161Office Fax: (02) 9477 5768Website: www.christophorushouse.com.au Office Hours: 9am to 5pm, Monday to FridayHostel Hours: Staff on duty at all times, 7 days per week (After Hours after 5pm:0403 575 079) Board Members: Chairman Sune Nielsen (Rev), Roslyn Jones MD, John D Shaw, Jane Ruehmkorff & Annet van Kesteren.CEO: Milan Telford Hostel Manager: Denise Zhao

Self Care Liaison Officer: Monika BebbMaintenance Supervisor: Hayden Ibbett.Christophorus House is a Not-for-Profit organisation and has operated since 1984.Newsletter Editor: Monika Bebb Design & Layout: Judichi Design Published and printed by SNAP Printing. If you have some information, an event or an item you wish published, please contact Monika on (02) 9476 3161 ext 4 or email mbebb@christophorushouse.com.au

Editor’s LetterWelcome to this Winter edition of our newsletter. We’ve had a challenging few months: fires, floods, and pandemic! It’s difficult to come to terms with such enormous events so to help with this, I’ve included in this newsletter a moving and insightful perspective on the corona virus, written by a priest. It is thought-provoking and heart-felt and brings a truly human perspective to these events that are difficult to understand. For those

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interested in health matters, I’ve included an article on maximising brain health. We’ve also had the pleasure of having Wolfgang come to the Cottage to give talks and concerts. Please join us on Wednesdays at 3pm. The required social distancing is in place for 10 people so if you wish to come please call first! Until next time, keep well, safe and warmMonika BebbSelf Care Liaison Officer

Maintenance MattersReport by Hayden Ibbett, Maintenance Supervisor

In my last article I mentioned about the tree squashing the bottom carport and the safety concerns for the remaining ones. The council agreed that the remaining trees did pose a significant risk as they were unstable. Approval for their removal was given and our preferred contractors, Hornsby Tree Service, brought them down safely & professionally. With the trees out of the way and the final design of the new carport accepted,

Hi-Craft Home Improvements were given the green light to start construction, finishing mid-July. Some neighbours have come to the party and agreed for their share to repair damaged sections of fences, which is underway. I also oversaw the renovation of Unit 9 and no sooner had it been finished, I am now undertaking the renovation of Unit 10. I am happy to announce that some bus trips will begin again for our Hostel residents after NSW COVID restrictions have eased. Stay safe, warm and well.

The month of July is, of-course, just past mid-point in the Calendar year and we sense how events of the past 6 months have made the year seem like it has passed very quickly indeed.

Firstly, a couple of updates. In the last report, I wrote about how Denise, our Facility Manager, had been able to secure for CHRV full occupancy in the Facility by way of respite residents and that as from March all beds were full. This continues to be the case with 23 beds now having permanent residents and one used for respite. Secondly, the D.A. for changing the Mildred property boundaries, has been completed.

The Aged Care Facility on site has been subject to a number of

‘Emergency Regulations’ under the NSW Public Health Act in the past 6 months. CHRV has followed all measures and requirements to the letter of the law. This has resulted in restrictive practices put in place, in the first instance, with some relaxation in these, occurring for residents, as time has moved on.

I want to give commendation for the most excellent work under-taken by the staff at CHRV during this current period of ‘health uncertainty’ in our wider community, where the staff have truly been at the front line, responding to change in processes and procedures, and with a potential risk to their own health in the process. We often see that the Aged Care sector is vilified in the mainstream media and this is tantamount to unbalanced reporting of Aged Care. The other side is never really considered, nor given mention, or acknowledged; the side that is to do with the care and wellbeing of residents and their families, the side that doesn’t make for good news headlines. However, in recognition of the work that Aged Care workers, those that do the face to face looking after of our elderly, the Commonwealth government has provided a specific grant called a ‘retention bonus’ and this will shortly

be received to be paid to frontline staff. For this, I wish to thank the Commonwealth government for their much-appreciated recognition and acknowledgement of aged care workers.

CHRV has commenced a D.A. process to build 10 townhouses on its Mildred site. The townhouses will be almost double the size of the existing Independent Living Units (ILUs) and will therefore be able to cater for couples better. The development is not on the same scale as the previously ‘planned’ development (which did not go ahead) and will require only 1/5th the external financing compared to the previously planned D.A., making the task much more manageable to achieve. The townhouses will be single level and will be set in beautiful landscaped gardens. The D.A. process will take approximately 8 to 12 months.

Finally, if you know of anyone wanting to enter into a CHRV ILU, we do have a one-bedroom ILU available. The Bush Telegraph is printing advertising, but now only once a month. All other local papers are currently not printing, making it difficult to advertise the vacancy.

Milan Telford

From the Desk of the Chief Executive

PoemI have seen man’s profoundest form.I understand the world to the very core.I know that love, love is its deepest purpose,And I am here, for evermore to love.I spread my arms out like He did,Like He, I would embrace the whole wide world.

Christian Morgenstern

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News from Helga Forster HouseVicki Ferris, RAOI am not going to beat around the bush. What happened to the idea of 2020 being the good year after 2019 dealt us some major blows? For us in the hostel (residents and staff) these have certainly been some challenging times…

In an environment where we work hard to try and prevent social isolation, COVID-19 has created some major challenges. No gatherings, residents encouraged to stay in their rooms, visitors not permitted, social distancing… These phrases have become part of our ‘’new normal” but do little to support our social and emotional needs as human beings.

The Diversional Therapy Team had to find new ways to connect with people and support them through these difficult days. We created in-room activity packs, afternoon movie sessions, reminisce/reading group and the afternoon tea trolley that visited each day just so we could check in on our residents and see how they were doing. We called in reinforcements! Our good friend Kathy Gasper came back to help with some room visits. How lucky we are to have her!

Some good things have come out of this quiet time. Forced to slow down and spend time together, we found out new things about each other. We now know more of our selfcare neighbours. I have taken great delight in watching Jim Steel complete his diabolical 1500-piece puzzle. This venture nearly drove him round the twist – but he did it! Good on you Jim. Mary, the never-ending knitter! She takes time to chat with

me and my residents as we walk the gardens each day. It is always interesting for us to find out what she is up to. Robyn visits and was able to chat with us in the front courtyard as we bask in the delightful winter sun. We have many friendly neighbours that wave and greet us as they pass by.

Now, with the easing of restrictions we are conducting some modified activities. On 7th July we welcomed Paul Leventhal who presented a classical guitar recital for our residents. He was our first entertainer in five months. We have also taken our first bus trip since March. Small steps. Our residents are a resilient group of people and we look forward...

June & Monica celebrate their birthdays on the same day!Happy Birthday Stephen

Jim’s puzzle …

now completed.

Mary’s new scooter

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Feature

5 Simple Steps to Maximise Your Brain Health is an important component of Alzheimer’s Australia’s dementia risk reduction program, Your Brain Matters, and emphasises how preventive health measures can benefit your brain health. It shows you how to look after your brain health and has been developed by Alzheimer’s Australia based on published research evidence. Being brain healthy is particularly important once you reach middle age as this is when changes start to occur in the brain. To lead a brain-healthy life you need to look after your brain, your body and your heart – the earlier the better. Scientific research suggests that leading a brain-healthy life may reduce a person’s risk of developing dementia later in life. There are no guarantees however, as dementia cannot yet be prevented or cured but evidence does show that people can reduce their risk for dementia and other chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and cancer by adopting healthy lifestyles.Think of your brain as being on a pedestal and that your role is to guard this most precious asset by making sure it is well nourished with good nutrition choices while enjoying the benefits of physical activity and mental challenges. It is never too late to switch to a healthier lifestyle. You don’t need to start doing expensive new brain-training programs either – although they may be helpful – much of what you need to do to enjoy good brain health are simple things that you can easily do in your everyday life to lower your risk of dementia.

Step 1 - Look After Your HeartMany people are unaware of the connection between heart health and brain health which is why we like to say, ‘what’s good for your heart is good for your brain’. The risk of developing dementia appears to increase as a result of conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels, particularly when these occur at mid-life. They include:• High blood pressure• High cholesterol• Type 2 diabetes• Obesity

Research indicates that having diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure, and not treating them effectively, can damage the blood vessels in the brain, affecting brain function and thinking skills. Obesity is associated with increased risk for dementia, and other conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and vascular disease. Untreated high blood pressure, specifically in mid-life has been associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Promisingly, treatment of mid-life high blood pressure has been found to reduce dementia risk. High blood pressure in old age is not seen to increase the risk of

Alzheimer’s disease but is undesirable at any age. Treatment of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and obesity is necessary for good heart health and is likely also to protect brain health. They are all conditions that are easily identified and treatable. It’s important to have regular health checks and follow the advice of your health professional. Smoking increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer and other diseases. Studies have shown that current smokers have a greater chance of developing dementia than people who don’t smoke. There is no safe level of smoking. If you do smoke, seek medical advice on ways to help you quit, especially as it appears the increased risk reduces once you do. The National Heart Foundation of Australia says there is clear evidence of a rapid decrease of cardiovascular risk following cessation of smoking and that quitting smoking can rapidly reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke (The National Heart Foundation, Policy Paper: Tobacco and cardiovascular disease, 2007).

Step 2 - Do Some Physical ActivityNow, more than ever, there is strong evidence that regular physical activity is associated with better brain function and reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Exercise gives our brains a healthy boost.Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, stimulates the growth of brain cells and the connections between them, and is associated with larger brain volume. It reduces the risk of high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol, which are associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. There is some evidence that suggests people who don’t do regular physical activity have an increased risk of developing dementia. It is still unclear just how much and how often we should exercise specifically to reduce our risk of dementia. Recommend is the following National Physical Activity Guidelines (www.health.gov.au/paguidelines). For adults aged 18-64, the guidelines recommend:

5 Simple Steps to Maximise Your Brain Health

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Feature

Maximise Your Brain Health - continued

• Doing any physical activity is better than doing none. If you currently do no physical activity, start by doing some, and gradually build up to the recommended amount.

• Be active on most, preferably all, days every week.• Accumulate 150 to 300 minutes (2 ½ to 5 hours)

of moderate intensity physical activity or 75 to 150 minutes (1 ¼ to 2 ½ hours) of vigorous intensity physical activity, or an equivalent combination of both moderate and vigorous activities, each week.

• Do muscle strengthening activities on at least 2 days each week.

You need to get into the habit of exercising and once you do, you’ll wonder why you waited so long. Exercise makes us feel good and is a great activity to enjoy with friends.

Step 3 - Mentally Challenge Your BrainKeeping your brain active is important to keep it functioning well. Scientists have found that challenging the brain with new activities helps to build new brain cells and strengthen connections between them. This helps to give the brain more ‘reserve’ or ‘back up’ so that it can cope better and keep working properly if any brain cells are damaged or die. Mental exercise may also protect against accumulation of damaging proteins in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease.As we grow older, we tend to prefer doing the things we’ve always done, tasks that we are familiar with – and that’s understandable – but the brain benefits by having to tackle something it doesn’t know. It could be learning a new language, taking up a new sport, doing a course in something you’re always wanted to do – anything really, as long as it’s learning something new. Challenge yourself often and keep learning new things throughout life. Higher levels of mental activity throughout life are consistently associated with better brain function and reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Importantly for older or retired people, increased complex mental activity in later life is associated with a lower dementia risk, which is good news for those who are able to work beyond retirement age.

Step 4 - Follow A Healthy DietYour brain needs a range of nutrients to function properly. Evidence suggests that a healthy, balanced diet may help in maintaining brain health and functionality, but more research is needed to understand if there are specific foods that may be able to reduce the risk of dementia.Several studies have found that a high intake of saturated fats, such as those found in meat, deep

fried foods and takeaway food and trans fats often found in pies, pastries, cakes, biscuits and buns are associated with an increased risk of dementia. So, what you eat could affect your brain. An eating plan that includes a higher intake of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats or ‘good fats’, such as those found in fish and olive oil, is associated with a reduced risk of dementia. Foods that are high in antioxidants such as tomatoes, pinto and kidney beans, pecan nuts, cranberries, blueberries and oranges also seem to be good for brain health. The omega 3 fatty acids, such as those contained in oily fish and walnuts, may reduce inflammation in the brain and promote the growth of new brain cells. Some studies have shown an association between higher fish consumption and lower dementia risk. Follow the National Dietary Guidelines (https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/guidelines/publications/n55) by eating a variety of foods including vegetables, fruit, fish, grains, nuts, legumes (beans, peas and lentils), and lean meat. Reduce foods high in saturated fats including full fat dairy products, fried food and desserts.

What about alcohol?Over time, drinking large quantities of alcohol may increase the risk of developing dementia. In fact, there is a type of dementia that may develop in anyone who regularly drinks excessive amounts of alcohol over a number of years. Light to moderate alcohol consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of dementia. The benefits of moderate consumption include reducing inflammation, increasing good cholesterol and increasing brain blood flow, all of which have positive effects on brain health.

Step 5 - Enjoy Social ActivityMost of us are social beings and usually prefer the company of others rather than existing in isolation. It’s always much more fun doing things with other people, to share experiences like going to the movies or a concert, take off on a trip somewhere or discover a new restaurant. Social engagement has been found to have benefits for other health factors related to cognitive functioning, such as vascular condition and depression. It is mentally stimulating and may contribute to building brain reserve which then contributes to a lower dementia risk. Research suggests that social activities that involve mental activity and physical activity such as dancing and team sports for example, provide even greater benefit for brain health and reducing the risk of dementia.

Sourced from Your Brain Matters.https://www.geelongmedicalgroup.com.au/2019/02/5-simple-steps-to-maximise-your-brain-health

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Corona - perspective of a priest

Work Health & Safety Corner

A corona is a circle of light around an object. The most magnificent corona in our universe is the corona around the sun. It is a fiery circular crown with occasional intense flare-ups. Its rays extend millions of miles into space. What a majestic body our sun is, the source of light and of life.

Looking at the heart, there is also a corona. The heart muscle has its own blood supply. It comes from a crown or corona of blood vessels that circle the heart. This corona can be defective and then one speaks of coronary heart disease.

And now we have a coronavirus that has unleashed panic around the globe. Borders have been closed. Air travel has been partially suspended. Millions of people are under lockdown. The corona viruses are

named for the crown-like spikes on the surface of the virus. They usually cause mild to moderate upper respiratory infections, like the common cold. But they can also cause more severe illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia which can, of course, lead to death.

For some time now people all over the world seem to have fallen under the spell of fear. Fear has entered our lives like a fast-spreading virus. It has become a corona of darkness around the globe. Like the crown-like spikes of the corona virus, the dark spikes of fear drive people apart. Fear drives people into isolation. Fear contracts and constricts the heart.

And is the heart of humanity not suffering from coronary heart disease, from constriction and therefore from a lack of love supply? Infectious love and life and laughter are giving way to deadly infections of the soul and the spirit. The world needs healing. We need healing.

As I child I used to sing: “The sun is in my heart… “ We need to rediscover this sun in our heart so that His corona can embrace our frightened humanity and drive away the cold and dark corona of fear and that we may find the courage to touch each other’s soul with the contagious healing power of love.Gisela Wielki

Within the CHRV Policy & Procedures document, there is a section on ‘Resident Aggression’. Resident aggression can be either physical aggression or verbal aggression. Examples of physical aggression include hitting, punching, pushing, shoving, throwing objects, spitting, and more. Verbal aggression include but are not limited to; hostile and threatening verbalisations, continued complaints, swearing, obscenities.

Under a ‘Residential Contract’ in the CHRV Aged Care Facility, there is under Annexure C statements about ‘Rights and Responsibilities – General Conditions of Occupation’. At items: • D5, the resident ‘…must comply with the Rules

of occupancy’ (see Annexure E)• D4, the resident:

1. ‘…have rights and responsibilities under law, including under the Charter.

2. ‘…have responsibilities under our Code of Conduct’ (Annexure F).

Both Annexure E and Annexure F outline a resident’s rights and responsibilities. These are a protection to residents and to staff. Staff should familiarise themselves (if not already) with the ‘Rules of Occupancy’ and also the ‘Code of Conduct’.

In the Work Health & Safety Policy Manual on pages 46- 47, staff can also find interventions for Physical and Verbal Aggression.Milan Telford

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Calendar of EventsRegular Events - enquiries Monika (02) 9476 3161 ext 4Hostel Lounge Room Talks with Wolfgang have been cancelled for the foreseeable future. However, he has been continuing talks with music in the Cottage as the restrictions have eased and more people can gather in one room (with adequate spacing). Once restrictions have eased sufficiently to allow events to take place in the Hostel, these will then be advertised on the website. Please see the website at www.christophorushouse.com.au. No events will be held for the foreseeable future.Board Meetings are held monthly on the third Wednesday.Weekly Footbath/Leg Massage Therapy with Ian. These have been discontinued for the foreseeable future.

Edith has settled in her new home in the hostel, enjoying the afternoon sun with visitor Robyn.

Robyn’s Pumpkins

QuoteQuote of the centuryDear god can you please uninstall 2020 and download it again??? It has a virus!!