Happy Easter from the

Carinya Board. I think

2018 will probably pass

before our eyes quicker

than the previous years,

hence I am wishing everyone a happy Easter.

The Board has been active after our Christmas

break and I’d like to inform you all of the

significant projects that are presently being

carried out.

Fire Sprinkled site – It is with great relief that we

can now advise that all our residential aged care

buildings are now fitted with fire sprinklers. We

have just finished the fitting of the fire sprinkler

system to Jim Chapman Lodge and Barron Court.

This is an additional safety system that supports

our Early Warning System (EWS).

Solar Panels – we are moving forward with our

plans of better environmentally sustainable Max Slade

2 Volunteers’ Report

Join our Happy Team!

Residents’ Meetings

Tribute to

Carmel Redding

3 The Residents’ Page

Changes in

Residency

4 Dr David Simonds Medicines in the Elderly

Aromatherapy

Internal use of

Essential oils

5 Leisure & Lifestyle

Jim Chapman, Enid

Collins & Kevin

Wadley Lodges

6 Service Excellence

7 From the

Director of Care

Education Report

A word from

CRANAplus

Inside this Issue

E-Version 16 VOLUME 24 ISSUE 2 March 2018

systems with the installation of solar panels on

the JCL central building roof. This roof is

structurally engineered to support the multitude of

panels and enables easy access for maintenance

and repairs. The panels have arrived, we are just

waiting for the Contractors to start the fit out.

There should be minimal disruption to Residents

and Staff. But this will provide Carinya with a

greener environment in the future.

Promoting Carinya – it is now more important

than ever that we ensure we promote our ‘Brand’.

This means, via the various media options

available, everyone in the broader community

comes to learn of the quality of care and excellent

services we deliver. With costs increasing and the

Government requiring people to pay more and

more towards their care, it is essential we

communicate what we offer. Carinya Board and

Management are working together to share with

everyone why Carinya Home is the preferred

destination for residential aged care services.

8 Donation Slip

Carinya News

is published quarterly by:

Carinya Home For The Aged

1 Mazlin Street

Atherton Qld 4883

Telephone: (07) 40912177

Fax: (07) 40912840

Email:

admin@carinyahome.org.au

Editor: Heather Marino Residents having a fantastic time at Carinya’s Christmas party

2

xx

Resident & Relatives Meetings

To keep Residents informed of upcoming activities; news about Carinya itself; fundraising; or for Residents’ ideas and suggestions to be heard, there are the Residents’ Meetings:- With the exception of Anzac Day & the December Christmas public holiday- JIM CHAPMAN LODGE:- Meetings are held - 10am - on the 1st Tuesday every month at the Combined Birthday Morning Tea. ENID COLLINS LODGE:- Meetings are held - 9.30am - on the 3rd Tuesday of every 2nd month.

Relatives are very welcome to participate and join us in a ‘cuppa’. Remember when visiting, please sign the Visitors’ book then check the notice board to see if there are any activities you would like to take your Relative to. Feel free to join us in all areas.

Mar 20 May 15 Jul 17 Sep 18 Nov 20

Mar 27 Apr 24 May 29 Jun 26 Jul 31

KEVIN WADLEY LODGE:- Meetings are held - *3.00pm on the last Tuesday of every month . . . . . *please note the change

Welcome to new Volunteer Sue Poggioli - you are already making a difference at Carinya in 2018. Sincere thanks to those Volunteers who continue in their much valued assistance and dedication. Staff, and of course Residents appreciate the Volunteers for the help they give as it enables Carinya to provide an exceptional level of care. Volunteers assist with morning teas, special functions, outings or just visiting. Each one offers their special and unique touch.

It maybe to read or recite poetry or to spend a little time chatting with Residents. Others may share their talent. So if you are clever at craft, have another talent or something else you would like to share, Residents would love to have you visit with them and share your enthusiasm and talents. Or maybe entertaining is your gift . . . What ever you have to offer we feel sure it will be appreciated and that you in turn will find sharing it rewarding. Remember you can organize to just pop in for a little while every now and then, or when ever you can. Every little bit helps. In a recent review of our Volunteer Training and Support program, we decided to provide a shorter format that will take less of your valuable time. Nevertheless it will still keep you current with WH&S information and cover the necessary police certificate requirements. Our friendly Reception Staff have the Volunteer forms, just call in and pick one up or they can email one to you. In 2018 as part of their community service we will welcome Bendigo Bank Staff as weekend Volunteers. Starting on March 3rd Bendigo Staff members will assist at a few Happy Hours throughout the year. As they have done in the past the Tableland Ukulele Group, will also volunteer their time to make a ‘happy hour’ with music. A recent treat for Residents was an entertainment by ‘Ellen’ on her violin. Ellen popped in and volunteered her time. We all appreciated her gift of music and enjoyed the variety of songs played. We look forward to welcoming you . . .

Talented violinist ‘Ellen’ entertains Residents and regular school holiday visitor ‘Cleo’

To become a Volunteer & Join our

‘Happy Team’ Call Sharon or Chris on

40 912177

Carmel Redding’s passion for music was evident from the gift she shared as a pianist with the community for many years. A voluntary entertainer at Carinya Home for almost 30 years, Carmel contributed to our

music program twice every month, alternately playing accompaniment for either ‘the Singers’ or ‘the Band’. After joining us as a resident, Carmel became even better known in our ‘Carinya Home community’. She began a fortnightly sing-along and frequently stepped in for any special occasions when asked.

Her quick wit and wicked sense of humour was embraced by both

Residents and Staff. We all shared some very special times with

Carmel and will miss her not only for her repertoire of songs but for

our Happy hours, State of Origin time and all the many other events at

which she played. We sincerely appreciate the hours of rehearsals

involved and Carmel’s generous contribution to entertainment at

Carinya and as we say goodbye to her we are grateful for treasured

memories . . . Thank you for the music.

Goodbye Carmel

Tableland Ukulele Group at our November Happy Hour 2017.

Coordinators of

Volunteers

Sharon Newport & Chris Bourke

3

Many happy returns of the day to all Residents on their

Birthday . . .

Combined Birthday Morning Tea

Many hands make light work! With a desire to make a contribution to the seasonal Festivities, Residents were very much involved in the preparation of Christmas Treats (above) and the planning of the Christmas/Boxing Day and New Years Day Menus. After meeting Carinya’s Chef it was arranged for the Residents to cut up the fruit and prepare Apricot Balls and Rum Balls. Some were specifically tailored to meet the needs of Residents on a texture modified diet so that they too could enjoy the same treats. Instead of coconut, a special flaked white chocolate and almond meal were used as substitutes. This way the High Care Resident didn’t miss out on the taste sensations of Christmas!

Changes in Residency

Carinya welcomed: Ron Graefling; Peter Lee; Barbara Sager; Lucienne Kuhr; Judith Isherwood; John Rose and Janet Felton to ECL Ailsa Morris; Holly Montgomery; Trina Page; Peter Hart; Muriel Rankine & Winn Hart to JCL and Bill Marsh; Marie Adcock and Lenore Camp to KWL. Carinya said farewell to: Les Aldridge; Joan Boissevain; Christine Donnelly; Wendy Hooper; Elizabeth Kidner; Tim Foley; Tim Land; Joan Johnson; Dimitri Ssamusew; Gunter Widding; Heather Johnston; Marie Myers; Wilma Nelson; Carmel Redding and Barbara Sager.

This Easter let the story of the Resurrection renew hope in the heart and revitalize the joyous and reassuring sense of Christ’s Love and presence in one’s life..

4

Dr David Simonds

Medicines in the Elderly

Are some medicines unsafe for older people? —

Yes, some medicines that are safe for younger adults are not safe for older adults. That's because as people get older, unwanted or harmful side effects from certain medicines become more common. Plus, the medicines last longer in the body. The next time you see your doctor or nurse, put all the medicines you take into a bag and bring them with you.

During your visit: Ask if you should still be taking all of the medicines you currently take. People sometimes end up taking more medicines than they really need. Ask whether the combination of medicines you take could cause a problem or "drug interaction." A drug interaction is when a medicine, food, or supplement changes the effects of another medicine. Tell your doctor or nurse about any symptoms you are having that you think are due to one of your medicines. He or she might be able to lower your dose, switch you to a different medicine, or deal with the symptoms in other ways. Interactions — Sometimes 2 medicines that are safe to take by themselves are actually unsafe to take together. When certain medicines are taken together, they can cause serious side effects or other problems. This can happen not just when 2 medicines are combined, but also when a medicine is combined with a specific food, or an herbal drug. Here are some examples:

Warfarin (brand name: Coumadin) + ginkgo biloba – The prescription medicine warfarin helps keep blood clots from forming. People take it to prevent strokes, heart attacks, and other problems. Ginkgo biloba is an herbal drug that is popular. People take it for lots of reasons, including the hope that it will keep them mentally sharp. But when the 2 drugs are taken together, they can seriously increase the risk of bleeding. Saint John's wort + antidepressants – The herbal drug Saint John's wort can help with mild forms of depression. But people sometimes take it when they're already taking an antidepressant. This combination can have dangerous

consequences. It can lead to a condition called serotonin syndrome, which is life-threatening.

Side effects — Older people are more likely to have some side

effects from medication. For example, older people are more likely to feel sleepy, confused, dizzy, or unsteady with certain medicines. This can be especially dangerous for them, because it increases the chances that they will fall. If you tend to feel sleepy, confused, dizzy, or unsteady, tell your doctor or nurse. Your medicines might or might not be the reason for your symptoms. Either way, it's important for your doctor or nurse to know about them. And if the symptoms are side effects of your medicines, your doctor or nurse might be able to lower your dose, switch you to a different medicine, or offer another solution. A common side effect in older men is trouble urinating. A number of different medicines can cause this side effect, including allergy medicines or sleeping pills. Talk to your doctor if you start a new medicine and find you have trouble starting the flow of urine, or your urine stream is weaker than it used to be.

Ways to protect yourself — To lower the chances that you'll

have problems related to the medicines you take, follow these steps: Make sure that your doctor knows about all of the medicines you take. This includes any over-the-counter or herbal medicines you use on a regular basis. Ask your doctor to go over all your medicines with you at least once a year. Keep a list of all the medicines you take including the dose you take, your reason for taking it, and the doctor or nurse who prescribed it. Ask Anytime your doctor or nurse puts you on a new medicine -

Why am I taking this medicine?

What are the common problems to watch out for?

What should I do if they happen?

When should I stop this medicine?

Can I take this medicine with the other medicines on my list?

What will happen if I don't take this medicine?

When you pick up a new prescription, ask your pharmacist if there are foods, supplements, or other medicines that you should avoid while taking your medicine. Your pharmacist is a great resource. Ask him or her any questions you might have about your medicines. Keep medicines in their original containers and read the instructions that come with them.

Karen Murray is available for massage and Aromatherapy treatments at Carinya. If interested please contact the Activities Coordinator in you area.

Karen Murray Aromatherapist

Internal use of essential oils is not recommended without professional

supervision. In France only Doctors trained in Aromatic Medicine are allowed to prescribe oils internally. In Australia, fully trained Aromatherapists are not allowed to recommend essential oils for internal use. There is a growing trend in Australia for lay people to use and suggest essential oils be ingested for various complaints. While there can be great benefit in treating certain conditions internally with essential oils, this is a specialised area and a lot of knowledge is required to prescribe accurately and safely. When ingested essentials oils have a corrosive effect on the liver, stomach and kidneys. If oils are used internally there are strict protocols to follow as in how, when and for how long they are

Aromatherapy

Internal use of

Essential Oils . . .

administered. Long term use of essential oils internally is not recommended for anyone. Cases of severe liver damage have resulted from individuals taking one drop of an oil on a daily basis for extended periods. There are many reported cases of poisoning from essential oils. All cases of severe poisoning have been from oral ingestion. Some oils are more toxic than others depending on their chemical composition. Purity is another factor and adulterated oils have their own risks. Essential oils have many health benefits when used responsibly. When using oils on the skin dilutions of 3-5% is the general recommendation. Enjoy your oils in the bath in the burner, as a massage oil or in a skincare regime. If unsure always consult a trained health care professional.

References: The complete Guide to Aromatherapy - Salvatore Battaglia. Medical Aromatherapy: Kurt Schnaubelt. The Foundations of Aromatic Medicine - Ron Guba C.A.

The young were certainly the flavour of the month in December with tiny tots to talented teens dominating the entertainment bill at the Christmas and New Year festivities. Thanks to them, the Paronellas; Carmel and the Band and Joe Gleeson for their contribution to the fun. Our Christmas party was a wonderful success and at Christmas Dinner the Bunning’s Santa, along with helpful elves, came bearing gifts! Since then we have launched ourselves into our many usual Activities which as of February includes swimming. In January our theme revolved around Australia Day so Residents had the pleasure of daily readings from ‘Australian Outback School Stories’ which prompted many of the Residents’ own funny stories from their school days. For our special Australia Day Morning Tea, Mark Both entertained us with Aussie poems and songs. Also in January Leesa brought ‘Flossie’ along for the Residents to pet and fuss over. She stole every ones heart. On February 13 we celebrated a favourite - Pancake Day followed by a Morning Tea outing on St. Valentine's Day to the now famous and fun café-gallery, Petals and Pinecones.

News from our Leisure & Lifestyle Coordinators

Chris Bourke & Sharon Newport of Jim Chapman

Lodge, Leesa Hart of Kevin Wadley Lodge &

Rebecca Howell of Enid Collins Lodge.

The age old Dame does it down under

Aussie Girls for Australia

Bunnings Santa cracks a cracker

Kindy Christmas cuties

St Joseph's students sing out loud

Christmas Party entertainers hit their stride

5

Gus’s Austral

ia Day squeeze

6

While every effort has been made to ensure that all information in this Newsletter is accurate, no responsibility can be accepted by the Publishers for entries or photographs supplied by organisations, firms or individuals, including copyright restrictions and/or typographical errors. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part thereof without permission is strictly prohibited.

and one last pic - Flossie's visit . . . Congratulations

to Sheena Buckley on

5 Years of Service.

Kinsley is a gentle and thoughtful Carer who is personable, patient and kind. He listens to and respects each Resident as an individual and is sensitive to their needs and committed to their fulfilment. Kinsley is ever cheerful, compassionate yet professional and approaches challenging situations with empathy for vulnerable Residents.

Colleen provides exceptional services to Carinya as Laundress. Her bright and cheerful manner creates an enthusiastic working environment in which she takes great care to make sure Laundry Staff are fully informed of their duties. Colleen is attentive and dedicated to fulfilling Residents requirements. Colleen’s efficient and effective management of the laundry is appreciated.

Tina Heiermann

Hospitality

Colleen Ryan

Laundry

Kinsley Hallam

Carer

Tina is flexible and enthusiastic, and is appreciated for her proactive approach to her work. Particularly helpful when it comes to training new Staff and building their confidence, Tina rises to all challenges, supports her work colleagues and is appreciated for her good humour and willingness to help others.

Service Excellence March 2018

From the Director of Care

Settling into Carinya Home and getting to know all the Residents, Staff and Volunteers has been a pleasure. I have worked in many aged care facilities but the values and philosophy at Carinya are refreshing. The high standard of quality care delivered by all the Staff, plus the

support and dedication of the two CNC’s Helen Fletcher and Jodie Melvin is a testament of what we do as a team. I would like to thank all the Staff who worked over the Christmas and New Year period. Your commitment and dedication to Residents, and support of each other, is outstanding and you are commended for your awesome teamwork. On-site dental services:- Carinya has worked hard with Lisa Crouch; Project Officer for CRANAplus and Project Outback Dental (POD) to provide all Residents with the opportunity to improve their overall Dental /Oral hygiene here on site at Carinya. The outstanding dental service provided on site for 2 days, obviated the need for Residents to go off site to attend an appointment at the dental clinic. POD offered their dental services at a reduced cost of only $58.00 for the initial consultation, which is a fraction of the cost compared with other off site dental services. It was very disappointing that only 14 Residents out of 131 took advantage of this opportunity. Hopefully, when the next proposed POD visit is prepared to provide this service in the future, more of our Residents will take advantage of this essential health service. Research shows that poor oral hygiene, along with medications can cause a dry mouth, resulting in cracks in lips and painful tongue, sometimes leading to thrush. Tooth decay and gum disease can lead to possible cause of aspiration pneumonia where inhaled saliva and food moves bacteria into the lungs. Dentures that no longer fit can not only make eating and speaking more difficult, but may also cause choking, bleeding of the gums and mouth ulcers. Many aged care residents do not have access to good dental /oral hygiene care due to the cost or lack of on-site services.

Resident Goodbyes:- Sadly, we have had quite a few Residents

passing in the last 3 months, which is difficult for Family members,

Friends and Staff. I leave you with this thought:- “Those we love

don’t go away, they walk beside us every day”. It is a blessing for us

to be a part of the journey!

Because you have asked . . . Details for Electronic

Payment of Donations are:-

CARINYA HOME FOR THE AGED:

BSB: 084-512 ACC: 82-331-7121

Alternately you can access the Newsletter on the WEB at

our Official Page Site: - www.carinyahome.org.au

Or you can find us on our Facebook Page:-

Carinya Home for the Aged Atherton

“Thanks for choosing E-Version ”

Thank-you to supporters of our quest to reduce postal costs, by choosing to receive the E-mail version of the Newsletter. If you too would like to join the ranks of those helping us defray our costs this way it is easy, just send us your name and E-address to:-

newsletter@carinyahome.org.au

Jasmine Ali

7

From Lisa Crouch, Project Officer at CRANAplus

The new After Hours Aged Care Project in the Tablelands, managed by the Council of Remote Area Nurses of Australia (CRANAplus) recently coordinated a visit from a Townsville based mobile dental service called Project Outback Dental (POD). The weekend visit and staff education session was a success and 14 Residents of Carinya Home were seen in either the Beauty Salon or in their own rooms. Full mouth examinations with radiographic imaging was provided as well as treatments, including descaling, cleans and restoration of teeth. Providing appropriate dental care for older people is a specialised skill and good oral health for Residents is very important for overall health and comfort. The POD team plans to revisit Carinya Home around June this year and welcomes all new and existing patients.

Sandi Nuku Education Coordinator

The Commonwealth Government has provided funding via a tender process for an identified need in Residential Aged Care Facilities

(RACF) which is the After Hours Aged Care Project. This project was granted by Primary Health Northern - Cairns(PHN) to CRANAplus to deliver strategies to reduce the need for after hours services for Aged Care. Carinya Home was invited to take part in this project which commenced in November 2017 with a launch by Dr. Eddy Striven (Regional Geriatrician and Clinical Director for Older Persons, Subacute and Rehabilitation in Far North Queensland). The education component of the project is targeted towards the Regulated and Care Staff and topics include:- Causes for Delirium in Aged Care; Oral and Dental Care; Falls Prevention; Palliative Care; Pain Management; Adult Guardianship and EPOA’s; and Polypharmacy in Aged Care. These are just a few of the subjects that will be offered to Staff over the period of the project, which will conclude in June 2018. These topics are presented by external professionals who have a high level of expertise in their fields. Their presentations continues the training of Carinya Staff to achieve the best of contemporary practice education.

Education

Enclosed please find my donation for:

$5 $10 $20 $50 Other $ ...………………………….

Please make cheques payable to Carinya Home For The Aged

Name …………………………………………………………………………………………...

Address……………………………………………………………………………………….…

Email Address (optional)……………………………………………………………………….…

……….……………Postcode ………………Telephone…………………………………..

Carinya Home For The Aged, PO Box 522, Atherton 4883. (March 2018)

All donations of $2 or more

are tax deductible and a receipt will be

sent to you.

Alternately details for Electronic Payment of

Donations are:-

CARINYA HOME FOR THE AGED BSB: 084-512

ACC: 82-331-7121