Some
of the feedback on the training, which was presented by Debbie Christen, Rand
Aid’s Manager: Recreational Programmes, indicated that the staff were happy to
be recognised and affirmed as individuals beyond their job titles, and to learn
that the Rand Aid organisation valued them as domestic and service staff who
make important contributions to the wellbeing of the centre’s elders.
They
learnt that the Ron Smith Care Centre is not a hospital, but the residents’
home. They also learnt that wellbeing is health in body, mind and spirit
and that it is important to see the whole person, not just the medical
condition. They received the message that all have a role to play in
bringing loving care, kindness, respect, meaning, joy, fun and simple pleasures
into the lives of all who live and work in the care centre community.
Zabeth
Zühlsdorff, GM Services and Advanced Division, said in her address to the staff
that in the 116-year-old history of Rand Aid, one of the most important highlights
in the growth of the organisation, has been the adoption of the Eden
Alternative philosophy.
“Eden
has revolutionised our care centre. It has changed from an institution to a
home where people receive tender loving care during their last years when they
need help, assistance and nursing care. Eden has shown us how important it is
to see care through the eyes of a resident and to understand the person we care
for.
“It
also teaches and reminds us every day to treat each person, resident and staff
alike, with respect, dignity and love. The housekeeping, kitchen, maintenance
and gardening staff all have a huge role to play in creating a caring
environment – a place that residents want to call ‘home’. How you treat residents, how you interact
with them, and how well you do your job is so very important in reaching our
Eden goals.”
Ron
Smith Care Centre staff were each presented with a Certificate of Achievement,
followed by an ice-cream party to celebrate the learning, connection and fun
that was experienced in the Open Hearts Open Minds Eden training.
The
staff members who underwent the Open Hearts Open Minds Eden training.
