The Salvation Army Aged Care

Meet Frankie, our Centre Manager of Gill Waminda Aged Care Centre. Frankie has been working with Salvos Aged Care since early 2023. He has a breadth of knowledge in Aged Care, with experience as a Carer, Activities Officer, Community Support Worker, Registered Nurse and Care Manager. When asked about why he chose a career in Aged Care, Frankie says, “Aged Care is close to my heart. Looking after the elderly feels like caring for my grandparents. I felt a sense of purpose with what I do in Aged Care.” “Knowing that I am able to make an impact on the lives of our residents is what drives me to work each day. As part of a team that provides care to the elderly, it is fulfilling to know that we have the special opportunity to share a part of ourselves in providing care to every resident enjoying their golden years and to ensure they are happy and have fulfilment and satisfaction.” When reflecting on his fondest memories at Gill Waminda, Frankie shares, “Some of my best moments have been with my team—whether it’s theme days, coffee gatherings, dress-ups, or just enjoying a BBQ together. These moments create a great work environment and promote a positive camaraderie amongst the team. I enjoy working with such a diverse group of people.” Big shout out to Frankie and his team at Gill Waminda in Goulburn! 

This year, the theme for our 2024 Centre Managers Conference was Leading the Five Pillars of Aged Care Excellence and providing the Centre Managers with leadership skills that can be applied in their daily role. Each year, awards are announced for the Centres of the Year and Pacific Lodge Aged Care Centre and Weeroona Aged Care Centre were awarded the top prize for their efforts across all Five Pillars this year. "The Five Pillars are about giving the Centre Manager the license to focus on all five, rather than the historical responsibility of focusing on quality and operations," says Tony Stephenson, our General Manager of Residential Services. Remelie Smith, our Centre Manager of Weeroona, says that striving to achieve the Five Pillars has made her team stronger whilst continuing to deliver quality care. “Striving for excellence is not about being perfect but being honest, adaptable and committed to improving every day.” "To me, the Five Pillars are not just abstract concepts; they are the guiding principles that guide me on how I manage the home and ensure we consistently meet the needs of our residents," says Michelle Ossington, Centre Manager of Pacific Lodge. Read more about our Centre Managers Conference and Five Pillars of Aged Care Excellence at the link below.

Meet Maria, our Lifestyle Coordinator at Kubirri Aged Care Centre. Maria has been working in Aged Care since 2014. Upon a recommendation from a friend who worked in Aged Care, she began working in the industry and has not looked back. She has a passion for looking after people, enjoys helping people and making sure they are happy.  “I really enjoy doing what I'm doing and the satisfaction you get out of it is priceless”, says Maria. “You feel good when you go home at the end of the day and know that you have made a difference in someone's day/life. Seeing the residents happy and being there for them makes me so happy and I feel like I have accomplished something good.”  Maria has many fond memories from her work so far, but it is in the daily moments that make her role truly rewarding. “I learn new things every day from my job, from the residents themselves, from my co-workers, and from my supervisors, and I am grateful for that.” We’re so lucky to have dedicated and caring people like Maria at Salvos Aged Care. 

"I think every Home Care Worker needs to be kind and have empathy; it’s the way you interact with clients when you’re with them that I feel is most impactful,” says Salvos Home Care worker, Jeann Pierre. For Jeann Pierre, working in the aged care sector provides him with an opportunity to not just assist clients with their daily living tasks, but also form meaningful connections with them. “I really like helping clients” he says. “I like seeing them happy when I arrive every day to their homes. I enjoy keeping them company, talking with them, hearing their stories, sharing some of my own, laughing and having a good time. I find that very fulfilling.”  Read more about Jeann Pierre and his work with Salvos Home Care at the link below.

Last week, our Centres marked National Safe Work Month with “Safe Tea” morning teas and exercise sessions to promote awareness of musculoskeletal injuries (MSD). “Safe Tea” morning teas encouraged open discussion about the importance of a safe workplace and learning about the prevention of MSD, along with the gentle exercise sessions during different shifts.     Salvos Home Care in Victoria got involved in National Safe Work Month and hosted two interactive info sessions with staff members, where everyone was encouraged to share concerns, ideas, and best practices for ensuring a secure and supportive workplace. 

“I feel a million percent and really satisfied that I achieved what I did to be able to move home again,” says Lorraine. “I felt supported by everyone the whole way.” Lorraine was residing at Riverview Gardens Aged Care Centre with her late husband who was needing full-time care. Following his passing, however, Lorraine was able and eager to move back into the former home they had created together. With the multi-pronged approach and support of our team, this dream of Lorraine’s became a reality. Team members from our different services worked together to assist Lorraine in moving back to her home and make the process as seamless as possible. Read more about Lorraine's journey at the link below.

When it comes to developing meals for older Australians, there should be an emphasis on ensuring all meals meet nutrition considerations. “A lot of our recipes are very high energy and very high in protein," says Lainie, our Hospitality Manager. “We use things like wholemeal flour in our bakery items, where it doesn’t affect the flavour, but we’re increasing the fibre there. We also use red lentils to fortify our soups to give residents protein before they retire for the evening.” All of our Chefs and Catering Attendants are trained in high-energy and high-protein recipes, and other similar meal types. Chef Sue is our Chef Manager at Riverview Gardens Aged Care Centre. Her approach to cooking emphasises fresh and healthy food that still tastes delicious. “With the cooking processes that we have here; braising, pressure cooking, and all those things - this keeps a lot of the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in the food,” Chef Sue says. “We steam the vegetables, rather than boiling them in a pot, so they keep their colour and nutritional value. Most of our food here is made in-house – our desserts, our morning tea. We make all of it ourselves.” Read more about nutrition and taste across our Centres and the work of our Catering team at the link below.

October marks National Safe Work Month and this year’s theme is ‘safety is everyone’s business’. At The Salvation Army Aged Care, our people are our greatest asset so we’re taking the time this month to reflect on the importance of a safe workplace. It’s vital to plan ahead and consider safety and health in every action we take. We’ll be doing our part to raise awareness and reinforce safety across our centres. This week is dedicated to musculoskeletal injuries (MSD). Also known as sprains and strains, MSD are the most common work-related injuries, however, they are preventable with some changes. Here are a few methods we’re using to try and make the difference. #agedcare #salvosagedcare #TheSalvationArmy #SafetyIsOurBusiness #SafeWorkMonth

This #WorldMentalHealthDay, we’re shining a light on the resilience and dedication of our aged care team as the commitment our staff show when providing compassionate care every day is truly inspiring. The care and support they provide to our residents and clients is at the heart of everything we do. Supporting our workers means fostering an environment where open communication is encouraged, mental health resources are available, and wellbeing programs are in place as needed. Of course, mental wellbeing goes beyond the workplace. For our residents, clients, and the broader community, we’re committed to a holistic approach that enhances emotional health and quality of life. Everyone deserves to feel valued, connected, and supported. Let’s use this day to acknowledge the importance of mental health for everyone — whether at work, at home, or in the wider community. To learn more about World Mental Health Day, visit the World Health Organization’s campaign: https://hubs.li/Q02SSZpc0 #agedcare #salvosagedcare #TheSalvationArmy

Salvos Home Care is now available in South Australia! We’re pleased to announce that Salvos Home Care services are now available in South Australia, initially serving North and North East Adelaide. This expansion is part of our ongoing commitment to providing older Australians with the personalised support they need to live independently and safely in their own homes. “At Salvos Home Care, we’re focused on delivering compassionate, person-centred care that adapts to each individual’s needs. Our team is excited to bring these services to the South Australian community and make a real difference in people’s lives.” Simon Pavelic, Home Care Manager, South Australia. Whether it’s domestic assistance, personal care, nursing or Allied Health support, we’re here to make daily life easier, safer and more comfortable for older Australians. We offer flexible care plans with no hidden costs and a dedicated team that understands the unique needs of our local communities. To learn more or to refer someone who could benefit from our services, get in touch: 📞1300 111 227 ✉️ agedcare.enquiries@salvationarmy.org.au 🖥️ https://hubs.li/Q02SJj6H0 Let’s spread the word and continue supporting older Australians together! #SalvosHomeCare #salvosagedcare #TheSalvationArmy #AgedCare #SouthAustralia #CommunityCare