Bringing the “community into the home” is the most important part of aged care, says Sea Views Manor’s Glenn Chidzey.
The home’s lifestyle co-ordinator is always searching for ways to keep his residents connected with Ocean Grove.
“The last thing you want when you come into care is to be isolated,” Glenn says.
“Our residents like to be involved in the community, and why shouldn’t they be, they’re citizens of the area and they want to know what’s going on.”
Recently, Bellarine Secondary College students pushed residents’ wheelchairs for an outing in town.
“The kids were wonderful,” Glenn says. “They interact really well with them.”
Local students are regularly at the home, with several Grade 6 students visiting for a Rotary leadership program.
“Some (residents) have built an ongoing relationship with the student.”
The home’s 150 residents love to contribute through fund-raisers like Daffodil Day and the Biggest Morning Tea.
“We have a lady who knits little cats for the medical clinic to give to kids when they have a needle. Sea Views Manor is part of Ocean Grove.”
The seaside town is the perfect location for the manor, Glenn says.
“It’s still got that small town feel. I will take a resident out for a walk in the street and they will see someone they know.”
Recently, 17 residents entered 35 artworks in the Bellarine Agricultural Show, with Bob Harrington winning first prize for his stunning tapestry work.
“It’s more than just bingo,” Glenn says, “There’s always something happening in the home.”
