Dr Adriaan Liebenberg and Claire James gave a talk at the Helderberg Society for the Aged in Somerset West as part of ‘Go Turquoise for the Elderly’ campaign. The unanimous voice from the audience was “It is the best talk I ever attended!” It’s wonderful to hear that the talk was well-received and that the attendees found value from our PAIN presenters. Dr Liebenberg and Claire deserve recognition for their efforts in delivering an exceptional talk that resonated with the audience. It’s heartening to know that their expertise and insights made a positive difference in the lives of the elderly.
The residents at HSFA’s Swannack Gardens are keeping fit on their NEW outdoor exercise gym. Jackie Nash and Delmence Prevost shown in the photos below worked up a healthy sweat whilst enjoying the beautiful view and getting some Vitamin sunshine D! Thank you for the kind donor (who asked to not be mentioned) who sponsored the fabulous equipment. The HSFA believes in active ageing and this kind action really supports our mission! #activeageing#elderlyfitness#HSFA#helderberg#somersetwest
The residents of the Support Centre (one of our the HSFA Frail Care units) have benefitted from six Occupational Therapy students from Stellenbosch University who have begun their research study at the Society observing older persons in residential facilities and their cognitive abilities. Their observation was in early April 2023 and will repeat for a week in May 2023. The study is managed by Prof. Nicola Ann Plastow. Photo below left to right: Adri Snyman Risk Manager HSFA, Hanlie Theron Unit Manager Frail Care, Shivani Naidoo, Elzaan Blaauw, Fatima Moos, Fiona Smith, Tyla Fleischer, Kayla Burger, Nellie Botha HSFA Occupational Therapist and Rika Rodd CEO HSFA, #occupationaltherapy#stellenboschuniversity
Occupational Therapy is very important work with regard elderly patients to teach them exercise and rehabilitation techniques that make completing daily tasks, such as dressing, eating, and bathing, much easier. Occupational therapists help patients improve their fine and basic motor skills, strength, dexterity, and their range of motion. We welcome our new OT Nellie Botha to the HSFA family, She qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 1997 at Stellenbosch University and gained experience in SA and the UK, in a variety of hospitals, rehab units, a group home, community teams and community centres with adult and elderly patients who had physical and/or mental health problems. She has been working in the Helderberg area in neurology- and physical rehab, elderly and dementia care and as locum OT at a mental health clinic.
Nellie is now assisting the nursing and management team at HSFA to assess residents who might have had a fall or a decline in function to advise on the support they need.
The HSFA arranged training on how to use a hoist (bed lift) to help our OT’s or nurses get residents into their beds.
April is Global Volunteer month reminding us to recognise the volunteers that spread happiness through their unselfish kindness in the world. Thank you to our wonderful HSFA volunteer team that support the HSFA with their efforts in the charity shop, kiosk, gardens, art classes, reading, talk groups and so much more! See below one of our new volunteers Claire Wilson in the HSFA Support Centre being a great listener and companion with her radiating smile whilst soothing and massaging hands and feet of our frail residents. Our residents enjoy the art classes of Rose Malan and Carol Spencer. Do not forget the work done by our dedicated charity shop team who manage the shop every Friday. Helpers are currently needed in the HSFA Charity shop. Should you wish to apply to volunteer at the HSFA please contact Shireen Van Reenen on 021852 5130 or email shireen@hsfa.org.za. #volunteers#volunteersmonth
Caring for your loved one and need a break these upcoming holidays? The Helderberg Society For the Aged also provides short term temporary holiday accommodation with carers / nurses as required. Call Charlotte Smith Assisted Living Manager 021 8515711 or Hanlie Theron, Frail Care Unit Manager now on 021 8525130. Click here for the full brochure.