Lockdown highlights: games, gardening & BBQs

Two years ago, who would have thought wearing a mask would be a part of our daily wardrobe, visiting would be socially distanced, ‘lockdown’ would be one of the most commonly used words in the Western world, and RATs would be welcome? Things have certainly changed!

As an aged care facility where our most important people are particularly vulnerable, HBH Senior Living has had to re-think how we operate and manage the daily life so our residents are as protected as possible.

Our Eden Alternative approach means helping our residents stay sociable and connected to our local community has always been important. Until recently, this has included visits from local kindy kids, older students from St Kentigern College and of course, regular visits from friends, family, volunteers and even pets. Unfortunately, this has had to change.

However, there has been a silver lining. While, like everyone else, our world has become a little more restricted, our amazing staff have risen to the challenge with activities to keep our community thriving, sociable and happy.

Ideas have included outdoor BBQs, indoor games tournaments, dress-up days, pamper days, gardening and a range of art activities. These activities have not only given our residents something to look forward to; they really seem to have enjoyed the opportunities to get together within their COVID community bubbles.

Online booking system for visits with loved ones

Having friends and family visit has always been a vital part of daily life at HBH, so this has been the toughest restriction for everyone. Technology has enabled us to keep families connected and to that end, we’ve initiated an online booking system, which we’ve been able to adapt as restrictions change. If you haven’t already, check it out here.

Thank you once again to the friends and families of our residents for your patience and understanding during these challenging times.