Authors: Starrett Lodge, UnitingCare Ageing Hunter Central Coast, NSW
Year: 2013
Event: 2013 TheMHS Awards
Subject:
Type of resource: TheMHS Awards
Award state: NSW
Award level: Gold
Award category: Special Achievement
Abstract: Women worldwide connect around the kitchen table imparting wisdom and shared meaning through story telling. The book, ‘A Long, Long Look Back’ was conceived around the kitchen table of Starrett Lodge by 13 residents with an average age of 87 and diagnoses including dementia and depression. Advice and research was sort from experts including Helga Merl, Nurse Practitioner Dementia, Dr Barrett, Geriatrician & the Alzheimer’s Association Librarian. Using the communication enhancement model, the project involved much exchange of stories, laughing and crying. Taking over 12 months to write, the Authors glow with excitement talking about the book and its launch in March 2012. Positive outcomes remain for residents, staff and families. One daughter commented “I connect more with mum after reading her story. It assisted mum recapture her memories and lifted her depression.” A project DVD is used to train staff both locally and as far as La Trobe University. Description of Facility/Organisation: As a service group of UnitingCare NSW. Unitingcare Ageing is responsible for the Uniting Church’s ministry for older people, particularly those who are disadvantaged, vulnerable and isolated. With around 14,000 people in our care, UnitingCare Ageing is the single largest provider of aged care services in NSW and the ACT. We seek to provide positive lifestyle choices for older people living in Residential Care and the community that result in enriching and fulfilling lives. Our services are delivered in a Christian context characterised by compassion and love for all. Our team of chaplains and Pastoral Care workers also provide comfort, counselling and advocacy for residents, clients, families, volunteers and staff as a holistic expression of care
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