SUMMITNEWS

Proudly brought to you by SummitCare Autumn/Winter 2017

A Joyous Life
A story of music, love and happiness

Maggie Beer
Speaks to SummitCare about
her mission to bring great food
to people as they age

Welcoming
SummitCare
Baulkham Hills
Taking Warmth, Worth & Wellbeing
to new levels
 Letter from our CEO SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017
We go to print hot off the back of
Federal Budget night. Pleasingly,
the aged care sector has been
spared further funding cuts. In
the preceding three budgets,
aged care services have suffered
2 as government policy reforms
align a real growth in service
demand, fuelled by an ageing
population and the needs of
older Australians, to the budget
constraints of reducing tax
bases. We are yet to be advised
of our indexation rates, but last
year this was only 1 per cent. The
reason indexation is so important
is that it is the key driver used
to determine salary reviews for
our staff. SummitCare has been
able to hold, in real terms, our
staffing levels, despite the loss
of payroll tax supplements and
the government-driven changes
of reducing complex care
funding through the Aged Care
Funding instrument.
The reforms of the aged care
industry continue to move
forward and the most recent
announcement from Nick Ryan,
the National CEO of the Quality
Agency, is about the pending
start of consumer experience
Welcome
Autumn has arrived and these cooler
months are the perfect time to sit back
and take in the informative articles inside
this publication. Enjoy!
reporting. Each aged care home
around Australia undergoes
a combination of announced
and unannounced assessment
visits, as well as a very robust
accreditation review every three
years. The primary thrust of
these processes is to ensure that
government-funded aged care
homes meet rigorous quality
standards. As the provider, we
receive a report following each
of these visits and after the
accreditation visit a full report
is made public via the Quality
Agency website. Up until now,
though, there has been no
reporting available to consumers
for the in-between visits. So
from this month onwards, the
Agency will be producing a
report called the Consumers
Experience of the Quality of Care
and Services. It will be generated
from information gathered by
the quality assessors during the
assessment visits.
SummitCare welcomes this
approach by the Quality Agency
as we are always supportive
of information that helps our
residents and their families in
discerning the services available
or provided to them.
On the home front, we are
nearing completion of our
new development in Baulkham
Hills. The faade works have
been completed and the fitout
phase is well under way. John
Engeler and I recently met the
landscaping firm, Arcadia, on
site as we finalise the touches
for the exterior interfaces. This
is a wonderful development.
Co-designing it with our
operating staff and factoring
in feedback from our residents
and families will set this centre
apart from most others. It will
be the first development in
NSW that incorporates lifting
equipment into the fabric of
the structure in an unobtrusive
and easy to manage manner.
The space and availability of
communal and personal space
is beyond anything else I have
seen, while the external living
areas including a mens shed,
a play area for visiting children,
an onsite cafe, gardening and
meditation /reflections
areas will provide so much
choice and variety. Expressions
of interest for this new
development are open and
our team on 1300 68 55 48 is
ready to take your calls. We will
be hosting a community event
shortly at which more detailed
information about this new
service will be available.
3
Finally, our front cover features
a wonderful gentleman, Milton,
who resides at SummitCare
Wallsend. My recent CEO
sleepover was hosted there
and, as per my previous
approach, I enjoyed a meal with
residents, stayed overnight
and had a chance to see staff
and volunteer in the kitchen.
Milton is a wonderful example
of someone who thrives in the
community setting of residential
aged care. He is one of our
strongest advocates and has an
amazing story to tell. Its great
to shine a light on Milton in this
edition and, if you ever cross
his path, get him to share a
joke or two!

Cynthia Payne
Chief Executive Officer
SummitCare
 Contents
06
2 Welcome
Autumn has arrived and these
cooler months are the perfect
time to sit back and take in the
informative articles inside this
publication. Enjoy!
6 A joyous life
SummitCare Wallsend resident
Milton knows the secrets to
happiness and is more than
pleased to share them with us.
8 Welcoming SummitCare 16 New music program
Baulkham Hills strikes a chord
 A continued commitment to
warmth, worth and wellbeing
will be on show when
SummitCare Baulkham Hills
opens later this year.
10 Staying together
SummitCare provides the
perfect solution.
12 Food for thought
Acclaimed chef Maggie Beer
explains why she is on a mission
to help aged care centres serve
great food.
14 Playgroup closes the
generational divide
An intergenerational playgroup
at SummitCare Wallsend is
putting smiles on the faces
of all involved.
Music therapy at SummitCare
is proving to be a great hit
with residents, family members
and staff.
18 The gift of giving
Fairfield Citys 2017 Young Citizen
of the Year Fadi Aluboodi, a Year
12 student, reflects on the value
of volunteering at SummitCare
Canley Vale.
20 Five questions to ask
your parents as they age
It is easy to avoid having tough
discussions with your
parents about their future care
needs. Here are some questions
you should start to think about.
22 A hard call
Making the decision to place a
loved one into care can be heart-
wrenching, but staying on top
of five key factors can make the
move easier.
25 POA explained
Having a Power of Attorney is
a smart move for all the family
when someone is no longer able
to make their own decisions.
26 SummitCare
nurses Q&A
The role of nursing
staff at SummitCare.

18
28 A rewarding career
Assisting the members of our
St Marys community to enjoy
their best day every day
is a busy and enjoyable job for
dedicated nurse, Julie.
31 Strong alliance
SummitCares comprehensive
range of allied health
services, delivered by
friendly professionals, is
available to all our residents
and family members.
32 Winter wellness tips
As we head into the colder
months here are a few tips you
can use to make it a safe and
healthy one for the seniors in
your life.
08 12
26 34
35 Achoo!
What you should know and do Regular Appearances
this flu season.
36 Getting to know you 40 SummitExtras
Drawing on more than 16 years 42 Recipes
of experience in aged and
community care, Jessica Innes is 44 Puzzles
looking forward to playing a key
role as SummitCare delivers a 46 Whats coming up?
full suite of Home Care services
for clients.
38 Home care reforms
Stay in Touch
what you need to know
Government reforms to give
people more choice and better
care outcomes.
Editor Claire Ward
Design Magnum Creative
 Feature Story SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017

A joyous life
SummitCare Wallsend resident Milton knows the secrets to
6
happiness and is more than pleased to share them with us.

In a world where many people
are trying to find the meaning
of life, it is worth listening
to 96-year-old SummitCare
Wallsend resident, Milton.
I have no regrets. I have a
great life, he says. For me, its
all about bringing enjoyment to
other people thats what makes
me happy.
One of the keys to Miltons
ongoing satisfaction is his busy
life at Wallsend. Between yoga,
family outings and singing in the
Waratah Male Voice Warblers
choir, he has something on every
day. Just the way he likes it.
Born in Mayfield, north-west
of Newcastle, on November 13,
1920, Milton grew up in an active
household with an older step
brother and sister and a
younger sister.
It was at primary school that he
found his voice literally when
his Year 5 teacher encouraged
him to join the school choir, a
move that ignited a passion for
singing that lives on to this day.
It started as a joke, really,
Milton recalls. I got put forward
because I had a really deep
voice for a young lad, but then
we started to win competitions
against other schools, so I knew I
must be good!
He was soon singing in church
every week and still chuckles
about the time when he was
supposed to be singing While
shepherds watched their flocks
by night. And I was singing
my version, which was While
shepherds washed their socks by
night, Milton says.
Finishing primary school during
the Great Depression meant high
school was not an option for
young Milton. His parents sent
him straight out to work to earn
some much-needed pennies;
at first delivering papers and
then being a messenger boy
for local businessmen.
At 16, a job briefly became
available at the local steel mill
and he jumped at the chance.
With lots of strikes and union
unrest, the job quickly came and
went and Milton, still just a boy,
kept looking for a steady job.

He was also chasing fun by

pursuing his love of dancing.
He would cycle with his friends
from Mayfield to New Lambton
to go to a weekly dance.
It was there, aged 18, that
he met his girlfriend and wife
to be Joyce.

I remember the night like it was

yesterday she was beautiful,
Milton says. I saw her across the
room and knew I would be having
a dance with her that night.

Shortly after they met, Milton
joined the army and was gone
for four long years in the line of
duty. However, he went AWOL
twice, including once when he
escaped and went home to see
Joyce, resulting in him being
picked up by the Military Police
and sent back to the army but
not before he managed to tie the
knot with Joyce. The love affair
lasted more than 70 years.
Now one of the oldest members
of the Wallsend community,
Milton was one of the first
residents to be welcomed into
the centre almost a decade ago
when Joyces health was starting
to deteriorate.
They shared a room for a few
years until it became apparent
that Joyce, battling dementia,
needed extra support and
around-the-clock care. Milton
could have moved out, but
decided simply to move upstairs
so he could spend every day
with Joyce (when he wasnt
out singing). Sadly, she passed Diane and I go into town quite
away five years ago and, again, often and recently we were 7
Milton had the opportunity to go discussing where to go for a
home. He refused, commenting: coffee and you know what I said,
I am home, why would I move Lets go back to my place. The
out now? I have people to chat coffee shop downstairs is the
to all the time, great food, I dont best thing the centre has done
have to clean or wash up, and good coffee and a place to have
my daughters come by every a chat with friends.
week and take me out and about.
Im happy! Great family, great friends and
great fun it sums up Miltons
Miltons great joy today comes joyous life.
from his large family three
children, four granddaughters,
three grandsons, 16 great
grandchildren and three
great-great grandchildren.
He keeps his daughters, Diane
and Margaret, very busy as they
take turns picking him up and
taking him out every week,
as well as dropping him at
church on a Sunday.
Milton is always happy to
come back to his Wallsend
home. He tells a story about the
centre that helps to explain why.
 Environment SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017
Welcoming SummitCare
Baulkham Hills
A continued commitment to warmth, worth and wellbeing
will be on show when SummitCare Baulkham Hills opens later this year.
The heartfelt greetings from
8 staff, the respect shown to
residents and their families,
and the activities and care that
enhance peoples happiness and
health. These are the things that
you have come to expect in a
SummitCare community.
This focus on warmth, worth
and wellbeing will be taken to
new levels when the doors open
later this year to SummitCare
Baulkham Hills.
Positioned between Seven
Hills Road and Bass Drive in
Baulkham Hills, a suburb in
north-west Sydney, the state of
the art development will redefine
seniors living. It will feature
spectacular landscaped gardens
and peaceful common areas
through to an on-site caf and
wellness rooms that will be open
to residents, family and the local
community. The spotlight will be
on facilities and services that
improve the lives of the entire
SummitCare community.
The centre will offer 186 flexible
living spaces: a selection of
single rooms, large suites
and one-bedroom superior
suites. Interiors, designed by
international architecture
practice CHADA, will have the
luxurious feeling of a boutique
hotel and incorporate communal
indoor and outdoor living.
SummitCare CEO Cynthia Payne
has no doubt the Baulkham
Hills development will set the
standard for residential aged
care in Australia, not just for
SummitCare but the broader
aged care sector.
We are creating a vibrant
community hub that enables
wellbeing, all day every day, for
people requiring aged care, she
said. More than that, though,
this is an environment for family
members, visitors and people in
the Hills area that will support
people to age well and live well.
Ms Payne said the new Baulkham
Hills centre was proof that aged
care requirements had evolved.
We have listened to the Hills
community and responded to
their comments about what they
would love for themselves or
a family member as they age,
she said. We are proud to have
developed a hub that will benefit
the whole community.
Choice of accommodation
is one of the key aspects of
the development, which will
offer bedrooms with spacious
ensuites, terraces and balconies
and larger suites that enable
couples to stay living together
and age in place in a spacious,
relaxed setting.
The centre also features carefully
planned spaces for people with
memory loss and those requiring
behavioral support and family
rooms for overnight stays, fresh
meals prepared daily, an area for
childrens play, a library and a
hair and nail day spa.
Residents, their families and
visitors can participate in
activities ranging from yoga and

tai chi to cooking classes and
gardening. A media room and a
mens workshop area are other
features that will create a sense
of community and encourage
interaction between everyone.
Ms Payne said care teams, allied
health professionals and visiting
doctors would be on hand to
support the whole community
at SummitCare Baulkham Hills.
We will also be offering an
adult day centre and respite care,
in-home care, and behavioral
support programs, she added.
Located close to public
transport at the front of the
development and with plenty of
parking, visitors will have easy
access to their loved ones.
For residents and their families,
local shops and other facilities
are nearby, which means they
can continue to have a strong
connection with the local
Baulkham Hills community.
9
The new development will create
employment opportunities in
the local area, from managers to
the team that runs the kitchen
through to registered nurses who
deliver the care.
In addition to providing the best
possible care for the residents
and their families, we want to
make sure that SummitCare
Baulkham Hills contributes
to the wellbeing of the whole
community. Ms Payne said.
 Personal Preferences SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017
Staying together
SummitCare provides the
perfect solution.
SummitCare Baulkham Hills will
10
provide a solution for couples
who want to stay living together.
A recent survey highlights
the fact that baby boomers
want to age in place with their
partners. The research by Alison
Rahn, a PhD candidate from
the University of New England,
reveals that many baby boomers
want to share a bed with their
partner and retain their privacy.
Unfortunately, many facilities do
not allow this to happen.
Significantly, she suggested that
couples sharing a bed could
have important health benefits.
Conversely, the absence of
their partner could cause great
distress, interrupted sleep and
lead to poorer health.
When SummitCare Baulkham
Hills opens in September, it will
offer many special features
including catering to the specific
wishes of baby boomers who
would like to continue to share
a bedroom.
The move reflects SummitCares
focus on the physical, emotional,
social and spiritual wellbeing
of our residents. We have a
great number of couples
already in our care, and we
enable them to stay together
where possible, SummitCare
CEO Cynthia Payne said.
Several of the nine aged care
centres throughout Sydney
and Newcastle have been
reconfigured to offer couples
the ability to not only share a
bedroom but also enjoy their
own living area.
Baulkham Hills will incorporate
not just bedrooms that allow
couples to sleep with their loved
one, but large studios so they
can relax, communicate and
age in place together in a
home-like environment.
 Meaningful Activities SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017
Food for thought
Acclaimed chef Maggie Beer explains why she is on a
mission to help aged care centres serve great food.
SUMMITCARE: Have you
always had a passion for food?
MAGGIE BEER: Up until I was 34,
even though I had had many jobs
and enjoyed them, I didnt really
know what it was I wanted to
be. Moving to the Barossa when
I married Colin changed all that.
The impact of being surrounded
by amazing produce and feeling
our way into farming with the
seasons led me to cooking in a
very subtle, but absolute way.
12
How did you become a
true foodie?
I began with that very practical
entry into the food world
necessity! When we decided to
open the Farm Shop, including
the Pheasant Farm Restaurant,
it all felt like the next natural set
of steps in the progression of our
country life.
Fast forward to 2010 and, after
a long and successful culinary
career, you were named Senior
Australian of the Year how
did you feel?
Overwhelmed, elated and
amazed. It was, and continues to
be, one of the proudest moments
of my food life to date.
That award led to you, in 2014,
setting up the Maggie Beer
Foundation, which champions
the cause for better food
in aged care centres. What
motivated you?
I was invited to a CEOs
conference in aged care and, in
order to prepare for this event, I
did a lot of research; where I saw
some good things being done but
also some not-so-good things.
There was very little being done
in this area, which is why I felt I
needed to make a change. Thats
how the foundation started.
What was your inspiration for
the foundation?
Creating An Appetite For Life
is the cornerstone of my beliefs
of a happy, healthful life and this
has been a part of my philosophy
all my life. Im driven to bring
about change for these people
who have lived hard lives in
many cases, and can be entering
homes very frail where they are
unable to look after themselves.
I believe we have a responsibility
to give them more.
Warmth, worth and
wellbeing are at the heart of
SummitCares approach. How
can we all achieve wellbeing
through food?
When we are well, we are more
likely to let our focus on health
slip, but as soon as something
falters it brings our attention
back to just how precious our
good health is. The ripple effect
of eating well, and the wellbeing
that comes with that, cant help
but be appreciated over the
feeling of grabbing something
quick to eat in the car
between appointments.
You hold master classes to
inspire chefs and cooks in the
aged care sector. How do they
work?
Its generally two days of jam-
packed information, discussion
and hands-on experience
with cooking demonstrations,
celebrity guest chefs and
lively conversation with aged
care dietitians and food safety
experts. We also just launched
a workshop for CEOs and
managers which we will
continue to run. For our
very first workshop your
wonderful CEO, Cynthia Payne,
spoke to other CEOs
and managers about the
food culture at SummitCare.
Almost four years on, are 13
you satisfied with what the
foundation has achieved?
Yes, we have had a steady
stream of success based on
the goals we set out as our
overall plan when we began.
Focused on the objectives of
establishing a vibrant, influential
and authoritative charitable
foundation, we have been able
to improve the quality of life
of the current and future
generations of older people.
Working in conjunction with
governments, institutions,
non-government organisations
and the community, its the
combined efforts that have made
me especially keen to continue
to bring an awareness to aged
care cooking and nutrition in the
greater food world.
 Meaningful Activities SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017
Playgroup closes the
generational divide
A playgroup at SummitCare Wallsend
is putting smiles on the faces of all involved.
14 A special new playgroup at
SummitCare Wallsend highlights
the benefits of intergenerational
activities for children and
the elderly.
SummitCare recently established
the Wallsend Youngsters on the
Summit with the assistance
of Playgroup NSW.
Playgroup NSW is the peak body
representing playgroups
across the state that seeks
to support families and
strengthen local communities
through playgroups.
The aim of the playgroup is to
foster a connection between
generations. Held weekly,
parents and carers of children
aged up to 6 are welcome to
drop in to the centre on Mondays
from 9.45am until 11.45am to
meet with a select group of
residents and share activities.
SummitCare CEO
Cynthia Payne said the
concept had quickly proven
to be a resounding success.
The playgroup really unites
some of the youngest members
of the community with senior
residents and the laughter
and learning that occurs for
young and old is remarkable to
witness, she said.
Playgroup activities include
music, singing, art activities and
stories. The initiative comes in
response to strong anecdotal
evidence that people of different
age groups have much to
gain from intergenerational
connections.
Karen van Woudenberg,
Playgroup NSW Deputy CEO, said
intergenerational playgroups
brought together seniors,
More information:
www.playgroupnsw.org.au/Playgroup/Playgroups
www.summitcare.com.au/blog/playgroup-closes-generational-divide
children and their parents, in a
safe environment.
Interacting with seniors adds a
new dimension to the playgroup
experience and can be especially
enriching for those who are not
able to spend time with their
grandparents, she said.
Wallsend Leisure and Lifestyle
Officer Shayne Watson agreed
the initiative had clear benefits
for all involved.
Parents of the children have
a chance to meet new people
and make new friends, while
for children it helps their social,
physical, cognitive and language
development, she said.
And the smiles on our
residents faces show how
much they just love it when
they interact with children.
15
 Meaningful Activities SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017

New music program

strikes a chord
Music therapy at SummitCare
16
is proving to be a great hit with residents,
family members and staff.

We all have at least one song
it could be a track from The
Beatles, Elvis Presley or
Frank Sinatra that revives
distant memories.
The tune may bring you to tears,
connect you with loved ones or
friends of the past, or remind
you of times when your identity
was forged. It is the power of
music that activates your brain
but, just as importantly, touches
your heart and soul.
At SummitCare, memories
associated with music are
a wonderful way for family
members to connect with
their loved ones. The Music &
Memories program enables the
residents to listen to playlists of
their favourite songs, which are
then loaded on to iPods.
Michelle Hardy, Manager of
Accommodation and Services,
says the programs help improve
the health and wellbeing of the
SummitCare community.
We converted an old medication
trolley into a funky Music &
Memories trolley, which is mobile
and can hold all the equipment
for the program, Michelle says.
More than half of the residents
at SummitCare are actively
participating in the Music &
Memories initiative and the goal
is to keep expanding its reach.
The program is being delivered
with the assistance of The Arts
Health Institute, which provides
training courses for staff.
The institutes CEO, Maggie
Haertsch, says the concept
resonates with people of all ages.
The program really helps create
connections with people, she
says. It is a powerful way for
family and friends to share music
together, to remember stories
and experiences.

The program is based on
Alive Inside, an American
documentary that explores
musics capacity to reawaken
our souls. Filmmaker Michael
Rossato-Bennett tells the
stories of people who have been
revitalised by listening to music.
Michelle recalls the programs
impact on one resident, a
stroke victim who now has little
capacity to move.
She actually opened her
eyes and had a happy facial
expression that we had not
seen since she has been with us,
Michelle says. Her husband
was amazed as he was
sceptical at first.
SummitNews Aurumn/Winter 2017
Another member of the team,
Leisure and Lifestyle Officer,
Shayne, speaks about Vicki.
A lover in her heyday of country
music and the Tamworth Music
Festival, in particular, staff
developed music choices for her
with the help of her husband.
The first time we put her
headphones on, you could see
she was interacting, Shayne
says. Her eyes fluttered, she
opened her eyes (and) we asked
her if she liked the music. She
replied with a simple yes. Her
husband was ecstatic.
Her husband now uses the music
program to take Vicki back to
the old days of going to the
Tamworth festival.
Meaningful Activities
17
Her response may only be
small, but when you watch her
with the headphones on, you
can see her brain ticking and its
amazing, Shayne says.
The benefits of Music &
Memories have quickly become
apparent. Members of the
community are happier and
more social; wellbeing is
increased; staff, participants and
family members enjoy a more
supportive social environment;
and the program also gives
medical teams another tool to
reduce reliance on medications.
Given such positives, its clear
music is supporting residents
one song at a time.
 Feature Story SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017

The gift of giving

Fairfield Citys 2017 Young Citizen of the Year Fadi Aluboodi,
a Year 12 student, reflects on the value of volunteering
at SummitCare Canley Vale.

SUMMITCARE: Your award And why is a sense of and empathy by enhancing

follows volunteering work for
White Ribbon Australia, The
Salvation Army, SummitCare
and others. How did you feel
when you won?
FADI: I was honestly blessed
and delighted to know that the
Fairfield City community had
recognised me for all my solid
and consistent efforts invested
into the community.
18
What made you decide to
become a volunteer?
I believed that if I put in
the effort to volunteer,
it would open up future
job opportunities.
community so important
to you?
It allows people to interact with
each other, share experiences,
develop valued relationships and
work towards a common goal.
You participated in
SummitCares Fusion program,
which is all about connecting
secondary school students
with our residential community
and their family members. Tell
us about your experience?
I tremendously enjoyed
visiting people at SummitCare.
Such volunteering increases
intergenerational understanding
positive interactions between
different cultures. Bridging
the generation gap between
youths and older people is
very important.
Why, in particular, did this
program appeal to you?
I knew from this experience
I would be able to strengthen
some of my current skills,
including interpersonal,
communication, teamwork
and problem-solving. I also
wanted to gain a deeper
understanding of the health
care and aged care industry.

In your view, how do
programs such as Fusion
help our residents?
They have a chance to interact
with a younger generation. This
really brightens up their day.
What about the social benefits
of your time at SummitCare?
It has ensured that I can
comfortably connect with older
people and show appreciation
for the different cultures of the
residents and people in general.
What is your best memory from
your time at SummitCare?
Visiting my program partner,
Zina. I had a ton of fun with her
and its been a privilege to know
her over the weeks. She has this
cheeky laugh when she tries to
speak Arabic with me which is
infectious and makes
others around the room
feel enlightened.
What kind of activities did you
take part in?
My volunteering included
playing board games; for
example, Chinese checkers. Miss
Ly won every game of the five
I played with her, ending each
game with a bye bye followed
by a laugh of satisfaction.
If you were speaking to your
peers about the opportunity to
volunteer at SummitCare, what
would you say?
SummitCare is a real eye-
opener. You get to learn about
the fascinating lives of the
residents and their families, as
well as share your own stories.
From this, you gain an insight
into the important role aged
19
care facilities play in supporting
our aging population, as well as
being exposed to the many jobs
available in this industry. You
also develop skills that will be
useful now and in
the future.
At SummitCare, we have three
words that talk to who we are
and what we offer warmth,
worth and wellbeing. Do they
resonate with you and your
engagement with us?
Warmth, worth and wellbeing
are indeed what I have
experienced with SummitCare
and the Fusion program. This
is because I have firsthand
experience of all these factors in
my two years of volunteering at
SummitCare and constantly see
these elements every time I walk
into the centre.
 Personal Relationships SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017
Five questions to
ask your parents as
they get older
It is easy to avoid having tough discussions with your
parents about their future needs. Here are some questions you
may want to think about asking.
1. How will you stay active
20 and busy?
In discussions about getting
older, considerations about how
to live life to the fullest right
now are often forgotten. So find
out what will make your parents
feel energised and valuable as
older citizens. Do they want to
volunteer? Do they need to take
computer courses to stay up to
date in the digital world? Having
frank conversations allows
parents and their children to
understand each other and make
achievable plans.
2. Have you made a will or an
advanced directive?
A parents failure to make a will
is a recipe for confusion about
who they want to benefit
family, friends or charities from
their estate. A lack of planning
can lead to family legal disputes
after parents pass away.
Advanced directives, also known
as living wills, are also crucial.
These legal documents specify
what actions should be taken
if people cannot make
decisions for themselves
because of illness.
3. Do you want to make
a trust?
A trust can be set up in your
parents lifetime, or through
their will. They provide income to
others in specific circumstances
and come in two key forms: a life
interest trust (beneficiaries are
entitled to receive income from
a trust during their lifetime, and
upon their death the assets pass
to other beneficiaries named in
the will) and a discretionary
trust (where the trustee has
the discretion to choose the
amount of money paid to
each beneficiary).
4. Have you considered your
preferred care options?
Most of us, including our parents,
understandably want to stay at
home for as long as possible, but
it is important to discuss their
favoured care arrangements in
the event of them becoming ill.
Do they want to move in with
you? Would you be okay with
that? What level of care and
support do they expect? These
are big questions and should be
addressed.
5. How will your care
be funded?
Support and care as you get
older can incur significant costs
and families should discuss
how any future care needs will
be funded. Some people may
receive government assistance,
while for others common
options include selling assests
or investments. Contacting
a trusted financial aged care
provider to discuss possible costs
and funding options is a good
starting point.
21
 Personal Relationships SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017

A hard call
Making the decision to move your loved one
to a new home can be heart-wrenching, but staying on top
22
of five key factors can make the move easier.

They are the tell-tale signs that
loving children always dread
and send out a warning that
dad once vibrant, engaging
and so good at all those
handyman tasks around the
home is slowing down as age
takes its toll.
Forgetting how to change a
washer on the taps. Showing a
lack of interest in conversations
and social gatherings. Repeating
conversations that you had
last week and even just an
hour ago - things that get your
mind racing.
Its been five years since your
father moved in following the
death of your mother and you
made a vow that you would
always take care of him in his
older years. At first, it was easy.
Your dad did odd jobs around the
house and was a constant source
of knowledge and entertainment
during dinnertime conversations.
More recently, though, he has
started to wander at night and
you are concerned around the
clock about his happiness and
safety. His care needs are rising
dramatically, too.
Whats more, its affecting your
life and health. Even a night out
at the movies becomes stressful
because you are just not quite
sure how dad will be coping
back at home. You cancel
catch-ups with your friends.
You withdraw from your craft
group. You worry a lot.
Inevitably, you start thinking of
solutions and the possibility of
placing your dad in aged care.
Then the guilt sets in. I cant do
that to dad! I promised mum I
wouldnt abandon him.
Some friends have noticed your
dilemma. They explain how they
recently went through a similar
experience with their parents.
After putting it off, they assessed
the options and moved their
parents into safe, secure and
specialised care. The result?
Their parents have settled into
their new surroundings and are
enjoying a range of new on-site
activities and friendships.
Of course, it is a big decision
to make and one that requires
serious consideration. Here are
some actions that will help.
1. Manage your guilt
The decision to place loved ones
in a safe and well-run centre is
an act of compassion. It means

your parents will get the care
they deserve. However, feeling
guilty is a natural reaction
and some people may need
counselling or seek out trusted
friends or colleagues to discuss
their feelings.
2. Check on eligibility
If you are considering an aged
care placement for a parent,
they will first need to have an
assessment with a member of
an Aged Care Assessment Team
(ACAT). They can talk to you
about your mum or dads
current situation and help you
make smart decisions about
their future.
3. Do your homework
There are plenty of options in
the ever-expanding aged care
sector. Speak to a few providers
23
before making a decision and Yes, its emotional and stressful
get them to explain in detail moving your loved one into a
the facilities they are offering new home. However, remember
and, critically, the types of there are valid reasons for doing
care that are available. Make so. Making a decision from
sure the centre can offer an a position of love and being
appropriate transition plan well-informed invariably ends
as care needs evolve. in a good outcome for you
and your parents.
4. Embrace the new
arrangement
Once your mum or dad has
moved into their new home,
drop in for regular visits and
take them back to your home
for special occasions but make
sure you treat the centre like
their new home.
5. Look after yourself
Your health is just as important
as your mum and dads. So stay
focused on your wellbeing and
let the centres team do their job.
 Personal Relationships SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017

24
 POA explained
Having a Power of Attorney is a smart move,
especially when a family member or friend is no longer able
to make their own decisions.
Life can change quickly,
especially for the elderly, in
the event of a serious accident
or illness.
In such cases, it is much easier
and less stressful for family
members taking care of their
loved ones if a designated
individual or group have the legal
authority to manage their affairs.
This is where being prepared
and having Power of Attorney or
guardianship provisions in place
can make a big difference.
In essence, these provisions
enable a person over the age of
18 and without duress to appoint
one or more people usually
trusted family members or
friends to act on their behalf in
property and financial matters.
For example, it allows them to
access the individuals finances
to pay for costs relating to
medical treatment and care.
Here are the four types Enduring Power of
of powers: Guardianship
This is especially useful for older
General Power of Attorney
people and allows the appointed
This is usually for a specific time guardian to make day-to-day 25
or purpose for example, when a decisions about the individuals
person is travelling overseas and lifestyle, healthcare, visitors,
wants to sell shares or property accommodation and work.
while they are away. These
powers have no effect if the
Such powers can be confusing,
individual becomes incompetent.
so most people get a solicitor to
Enduring Power of Attorney prepare a Power of Attorney.
(Financial) You can handle it yourself,
This gives broader powers though, with do-it-yourself kits
that continue past the time that are available online or from
when the individual becomes legal groups.
incompetent. It automatically
starts from the time the For more details, visit NSW
individual loses competence, Trustee and Guardian at www.
unless the document specifies tag.nsw.gov.au/attorney-faqs.
an earlier date.
Enduring Power of Attorney
(Medical)
This power enables the person
to make decisions about medical
treatment on behalf of the
individual. It cannot be used for
euthanasia or palliative care.
 Summit Updates SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017
SummitCare
nurses Q&A
The role of nursing staff at SummitCare
When you or someone you love
move into an aged care, you
will have plenty of questions.
This period of relocation is one
of lifes big changes.
To further support you we have
produced this Q&A series, so you
can have the answers to some
important questions at hand.
1. I know there are different
kinds of aged care workers.
26 Could you explain their roles?
There are many team members
providing support in aged
care centres, of which some
are nurses. At SummitCare
we employ a combination of
registered nurses (RN), enrolled
nurses (EN) and assistants in
nursing (AIN). You will also
find a team of hospitality staff
including general service officers
(GSO) and chefs.
Registered Nurses are regulated
health professionals. RNs are
responsible and accountable
to the Nursing and Midwifery
Board of Australia (NMBA).
The Registered Nurses oversee
direct resident care and clinical
care of the residents and
practice within the Registered
Nurse Standards for practice,
codes and guidelines. The
Registered Nurses practice from
a person-centred approach
working collaboratively with
families, doctors, allied health
professionals and care teams.
The RNs develop and implement
plans of care, administer
medications and perform
various nursing procedures
within the centres.
Enrolled Nurses are also
regulated by the Nursing and
Midwifery Board of Australia
(NMBA). The Enrolled Nurse
practices within the Enrolled
Nurse Standards of Practice.
ENs work under the direction
and supervision of the
Registered Nurse in the provision
of person-centred care. Enrolled
Nurses administer medications
and perform some nursing
procedures as directed by the
Registered Nurse.
Much of your care will be
provided by an Assistant in
Nursing. The Assistant in Nursing
is trained in basic nursing
procedures and direct resident
care. They work under the direct
supervision and direction of
the Registered Nurses and/or
Enrolled Nurses. SummitCare
ensures all our team members
have a Certificate III or above
and undergo continuous training
to ensure we deliver high
standards of care and personal
service.
2. Do you have RNs in all your
centres 24 hours a day?
Yes, SummitCares residential
aged care centres are always
staffed by at least one RN at
all times, and frequently more,
depending on the shift and the
requirements of an individual
centre. We offer 24-hour nursing
care for all those who require it.
RNs are on site and on
duty 24/7. This can give you
peace of mind, knowing there
is always high-level clinical
supervision available and that
specialised nursing treatment
will be prompt.
4. Who oversees your
nursing staff?
Each one of our welcoming
residential care centres is
headed by a Local Leadership
Team consisting of a General
Manager, Manager Care and
Services and a Manager of
Accommodation and Services.
This team is highly experienced
in its specialty fields.
The Manager of Care Services
leads the RNs, ENs and Care
staff. They are Registered Nurses
themselves, with extensive aged
care experience in caring for
residents as well as providing
direction and support for all
nursing and allied health staff.
Many members of SummitCares
Leadership Team including
CEO Cynthia Payne and Group
Manager Care, Services
Sue Smith - are also highly
experienced nurses and
understand the role and
importance of this profession.
5. How are pain medications
administered? Is this the role
of a Registered Nurse?
Our RNs will be the team
members administering pain
medication. They are trained
in assessment of pain and in
monitoring the effects of pain
relief in a safe and professional
manner, liaising regularly with
your nominated GP as to your
ongoing needs.
6. How many nurses will be
working on each shift?
This really depends on the care
needs and requirements of the
residents at any one time. The
rosters are flexible and adjusted
accordingly, a pool of qualified
staff is available as needed
which maintains the consistency
of carers.
7. Will the same nursing
team look after me/my
loved one at a SummitCare
residential centre?
We are very proud that we
have a low staff turnover at
SummitCare, which is quite
unusual for the Australian aged
care sector. We provide our staff
with support for their wellbeing
that allows them, in turn, to
focus on your needs. You will
get to know your team at your
centre, and they will understand
your choices, preferences and
requirements so you can feel
comfortable. There will always be
a familiar, friendly face when you
need one.
8. Will your nursing
arrangements change in
the future?
SummitCare has provided care
and support to communities for
more than 50 years. SummitCare
provides a person-centered
approach to care. Your wishes,
choices and preferences will
always be considered in your
delivery of care and services. As
your needs change we will work
collaboratively with you and your
family considering your choices
and wishes when providing your
care to ensure optimal health,
wellbeing and support.
9. How much freedom do I have
to select the activities that
appeal to me? Do I have to wait
for nurses?
The SummitCare care centre
you have selected is your home.
We want to ensure that it is a
place where you feel relaxed and
comfortable and able to make
choices about your day.
Although medications, meals and
some activities are scheduled,
you will be supported by our
nursing team to choose a
lifestyle that supports your
physical, emotional, social and
spiritual wellbeing.
10. How do you train your team
after you hire them?
Many of our team members
are already well credentialed
when they join SummitCare.
We provide ongoing education
for all staff to ensure their
own personal and professional
development is encouraged and
supported because we want
them to remain the best in
the business.
27
SummitCare also offers
in-house workshops plus
external education programs,
conferences and study days.
We are strategically partnered
with the College of Nursing,
the Australian Institute of
Management and TAFE Western
Sydney Institute.
What if I have further
questions on nursing at
SummitCare, or any other
aspects of operations?
We want you to feel comfortable
about your choice of SummitCare
as a home for yourself or your
loved one. Please feel free to
contact any member of our team
or the General Manager at your
centre with any questions.
Other information that may
help you on your journey can
be found on our website or by
calling us:
summitcare.com.au
1300 68 55 48
 Feature Story SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017
A rewarding career
Assisting the members of our
St Marys community to enjoy their best day
every day is a busy and enjoyable job for dedicated nurse, Julie.
I wake up at 5.30am to have a
quick shower, drag my husband
out of bed, wake up the kids,
feed and dress them. On the way
28
to daycare drop-off, I plan what I
need to do and consider specific
events for the day.
Is it Marys hair wash day today?
Who needs to be up in time for
bingo? Who is the dentist
seeing today?
As soon as I get to work, I
go downstairs to receive the
handover from the night shift.
There is generally a lot of
information and detail logged
in our online care management
system and a team debrief
ensures we create the best
possible environment for our
community of residents.
After handover, I prepare
everything I will need for the day.
I also check the communication
diary to find out what is on and
what appointments our residents
may have, as well as checking
the care plans to see if there are
any specific care requirements
I may need to work through.
Those who need to be up early
for pre-arranged appointments
are gently woken first (most are
already awake), and helped to
prepare for the day.
Its my favourite part of the
day - seeing the residents happy
faces when I start my shift.
Their cheerful smiles and
gratitude remind me why
I became a nurse!
Their wellbeing always comes
first no matter what.
Depending on whether residents
would prefer room service or
to eat breakfast in the dining
room with their friends I ensure
they have all had sufficient
nutrition and an enjoyable
meal experience.
I encourage everyone to enjoy
some meaningful activities in
the dining room, such as bingo
or group exercise. If someone
prefers to remain in their room,
I ensure they have everything
they need (such as the TV on,
their magazine, or their phone if
they want to call their family).
When everyone is comfortable,
I detail everything on the
care management system,
so communication between
the whole team is clear and
documented and every residents
care needs are met.
Its incredible, and surprising to
many of my friends, just how
rewarding working with older
people can be. It is nursing the
way it was supposed to be
caring for every aspect of the
residents needs. I truly consider
everyone at St Marys to be part
of my family and want them to
receive the best care available.
When you get a thank-you from
a resident or a relative, you get
this warm and fuzzy feeling that
you just cant beat. There is no
greater honour.
Before I know it, its almost lunch
time, which is a very social time
at St Marys as families often
come in and join us. Over lunch,
one of the residents, Edith, chats
to me about her wedding day. Its
the same conversation we have
every day about the same time
and it goes like this: Oh, I am so

excited to be marrying Ron
I need to try on my dress and call
my sister to make sure she has
everythingready and, whatever
happens, Ron cant see me in
my dress.
As far as Edith is concerned, its
the first time she has told me
about her wedding day and Ron,
but for me its maybe the 100th
time. So every day I act like its
the first time Ive heard the story,
show my excitement and make
her feel special. I always walk
away feeling a little sad as Edith
never married. Her sister told me
early on that Ron, the love of her
life, died in the war.
After lunch some residents like
to have a nap while others stay
in the dining room for bingo
the most popular activity by far!
The excitement is high and not
a word is spoken as everyone
awaits the announcement of the
next number!
Just as I think that its been
a smooth day, someone in
Parkview becomes unwell;
staff rush from all directions to
help and of course I offer my
assistance. We all pull together to
help, like you would for a family
member. The resident is palliative
so monitoring her breathing and
pain management is paramount
and family emotions are high.
Being a nurse in an aged care
centre may not be as technical
as acute-care nursing in a
hospital but, honestly, the only
thing you dont do that the
hospital staff do is cannulate
and work a drip pump.
29
The relationships I have
built with the residents
are remarkable. How many
people can say they have 44
grandparents? Each and every
resident touches my heart. I
get very attached some of our
residents have been with us for
many years, so you can imagine
the bond you develop with the
resident and their family and
the loss we experience if they
pass away.
Its now 3pm and time for home.
I use this time to reflect on my
day and plan for tomorrow.
When I get to my kids daycare,
Im greeted with big hugs and
endless stories about the day.
Then its homeward bound for my
next shift being a Mum, another
very rewarding career.

Strong alliance
SummitCares comprehensive range of allied health services,
delivered by friendly professionals, make an impact on the
health and wellbeing of our communities.
When it comes to wellbeing,
SummitCares allied health
professionals play an
important role.
Distinct from nurses, doctors and
pharmacists, this is the group
of people that treat you (or
your loved one) across a range
of conditions and also provide
support to help prevent illness
and injury.
They are accessible at each of
our centres, and residents and
family members are invited to
use their services.
Heres a quick explanation of the
roles of our allied health team:
Nutritionist these
professionals provide advice
on food and nutrition, and any
dietary changes you may require.
They can assess your
nutritional needs, which is
important as your lifestyle
and health changes.
Physiotherapist trips and falls
can be an issue as we age, and
SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017 Personal Preferences
physiotherapists can assist by Optometrist testing eyes,
providing exercises and advice to recommending exercises,
enhance balance and strength. providing advice regarding 31
Additionally, they can help medical conditions and looking
improve mobility in many people. at overall health are all part of
the role of optometrists.
Speech pathologist speech
pathologists play an important
role in addressing swallowing If you are a family member or
and eating issues, which can friend of a SummitCare resident
be stressful and uncomfortable and would like to know more about
if left untreated. They also any of these services to enhance
support people to enhance their and maintain health and wellbeing,
communication skills. please contact your centre directly
and speak to a member of the Local
Podiatrist prevention,
Leadership Team.
diagnosis and treatment of
conditions related to the lower
limbs and feet is the role that
podiatrists cover. They also
assist in falls prevention and
improving mobility.
Dentist maintaining good
oral health is part of ensuring
good general health. Dental
professionals support our
residents to achieve good
daily health of their teeth,
gums and mouth.
 Optimal Health SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017
Winter wellness tips
As we head into the cooler months, here are a few tips you can
use to make it a safe and healthy one for the seniors in your life.
If you are a family caregiver for
a senior loved one, or maybe
you are supporting a friend or
neighbour, you know winter can
be a tough season of the year.
32
Taking a proactive approach to
winter safety is the best way to
prevent an injury or illness.
Seniors face different risks
during winter months than
younger adults. They range
from higher rates of seasonal
depression to hypothermia from
poorer circulation.
Because winters can force
seniors to spend more time
indoors and less time enjoying
a daily walk or socializing with
friends, it can lead to an increase
in health problems. And just the
cold weather itself can worsen or
be the cause of conditions such
as arthritis flaring up. Here are
six steps you can take to protect
your loved one this winter:
Six steps for Winter Health and
Wellness for Older Adults
1. Vitamin D deficiencies are
more common during the winter.
Encourage your loved one to
talk with their GP to see if they
recommend adding a vitamin D
supplement to the daily routine.
2. Peak flu season arrives in
most parts of the country just
after the Easter break. Older
adults are at higher risk for
developing symptoms or
full-blown flu. If you or the
person you are supporting
hasnt done so already,
encourage them to get a
flu shot. Its one of the best
ways to prevent getting sick.
3. Isolation is a health risk for
seniors who live alone. It often
gets worse during the long, cold
winters. Video chat services
such as Skype can allow families
to talk face-to-face all winter
long. And if you arent a local
family member or friend and
cant pop in then pick up the
phone and check in that way.
4. Slippery footpaths and
driveways can increase the risk
of a slip or fall. Where possible
keep the leaves off the paths and
keep the area well lit at night.
5. Winter gear is just as
important for older adults to
have as it is for children. Be sure
your family member or friend
has warm winter clothes and
shoes with non-skid soles. If they
use a walking frame or stick or a
similar assistive device, be sure it
has grips on the tips.
6. Bad weather kitchen
cupboards Helping an older
family member keep their
cupboards well-stocked, as well
as having an emergency supply
of medication on hand, may
eliminate the need for them to
have to leave the house during
wet weather.
The tips above are just a few
suggestions that may help older
people through the colder and
wetter months. You may also
want to consider respite services
if your loved one lives in a
remote area or you are planning
a trip and have concerns about
their health and wellbeing while
you are away. If this is the case
please give us a call on
1300 68 55 48.
33
 Optimal Health SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017

34

What you should know and do this flu season.
Are you 65 years and older or
visiting family or friends
who are?
It has been recognised that
people 65 years and older
are at greater risk of serious
complications from the flu
compared with young, healthy
adults. This is due to human
immune defenses becoming
weaker with age. While flu
seasons can vary in severity,
during most seasons people 65
years and older bear the greatest
burden of severe flu disease.
The flu (influenza) is caused by
a viral infection that is easily
spread from person to person.
Symptoms of the flu can include;
fever
muscle and joint pain
chills
sore throat
headaches
in some extreme cases
vomiting and diarrhoea.
These symptoms can last
a few weeks so your best
protection against the flu is to
get vaccinated. Getting a flu
Achoo!
shot early in the year, before If an outbreak of flu or another
the height of the flu season can illness occurs, follow your
result in a drastically reduced GPs health advice. This may
risk of becoming infected and include information about how
spreading the virus to others. to increase distance between
Book your flu shot appointment people and other measures.
today at your local GP and look 35
after yourself as well protecting
others this year.
Here are some everyday
preventive actions you
can take;
try to avoid close contact with
sick people.
while sick, limit contact with
others as much as possible to
prevent infecting them.
cover your nose and mouth
with a tissue when you cough
or sneeze. Throw the tissue
away after you use it.
wash your hands often with
soap and water. If soap and
water are not available, use an
alcohol-based hand rub.
avoid touching your eyes,
nose and mouth. Germs
spread this way.
clean and disinfect surfaces
and objects that may be
contaminated with germs
like the flu.
 Personal Relationships SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017
Getting to know you
Drawing on more than 16 years of experience in
aged and community care, Jessica Innes plays a key role as
SummitCare delivers a full suite of Home Care services for clients.
The newest member of the
SummitCare team, Jessica Innes,
General Manager SummitCare
Home Care, shares with us a little
about her life and career to date.
What will your position as
General Manager SummitCare
Home Care involve?
36 As the General Manager of
SummitCare Home Care, my role
is to ensure that our business
provides a high standard of
customer care and support, with
complete choice and control over
the services provided. The aim
of Home Care is to enable our
clients to remain living in their
home and community for as long
as possible. SummitCare will be
working over the coming year
to grow and develop our service
offering to include an extensive
range of modern aged care
technology and care choices.
What were your roles prior to
joining SummitCare?
I have worked in aged and
community care for over
16 years and have developed
from working in the front line
as a direct care worker to
working in senior roles in
Operations Management,
Project Management and
Quality Assurance.
Why were you attracted to leading provider of Home Care
SummitCare? services with a full suite of care
Our CEO, Cynthia Payne, options for our clients to access.
often talks about moments of Our staff will continue to have
serendipity and, for me, coming strong relationships with their
to SummitCare was one of clients and their families, and
the resources to support them
them. I met the SummitCare
Leadership Team during my to remain living at home right up
attendance at a conference. It until the end of their life.
was through this connection Who or what has inspired you
that I learnt of all the wonderful in your career?
things that SummitCare were
Both of my parents have
doing within aged care and their
worked hard all their lives with
vision to develop Home Care as
a tremendous work ethic and
an integral part of our business
goodwill towards anyone they
in providing quality aged care
meet. I strive to do the same.
services to the community. From
Each and every day, I am also
there my journey began.
inspired by the people that I
Aged care has changed so meet, the lives that they lead and
significantly during the course the stories that they have to tell.
of your career. What is your
take on the changes? Whats life outside work mean
to you?
There is no better time to be
Outside of work I am a keen
working in aged care than the
home renovator and enjoy
present. This year is going to
travelling with my husband Steve
bring many opportunities and
and two children, Sophie and
challenges, with the ultimate
Matthew. I am a creative person
goal of empowering customers
by nature and love colour, so any
with choice and control over
opportunity to draw, paint or sew
the services and supports that
is right up my alley.
they access.
SummitCare has just had its
50th birthday. What does the
next 50 years look like?
In the next 50 years my vision
is that SummitCare will be a
37
 Summit Updates SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017
Home care reforms
what you need
to know
Government reforms to home care services should give people
more choice and better care outcomes.
The delivery of home care
services for older Australians has
changed and recipients need to
understand how these reforms
38 may affect us and our families.
In February this year,
government reforms took
effect under a new model called
Increasing Choice in Home Care,
giving people greater control
over their selection of providers
for home care services.
All home care packages are
now provided to individual
consumers, overhauling the
previous method whereby such
packages were awarded to
approved providers under an
allocation process. Consumers
can now direct their government
funding to their provider of
choice, while the new rules also
make recipients care transition
much simpler if they are moving
to another area to live.
What are the key changes?
The rationale for the rethink is
that the Australian Government
wants older people to be
supported and empowered
with regard to the home care
services they receive. Important
elements of the February
changes relate to:
changing providers it is
easier to switch providers
while at the same time
ensuring that funding and
unspent funds can follow
people to their new provider.

package allocation
packages are being assigned
to people based on their
individual needs and
circumstances, with the
emphasis being on receiving
care in a fair and consistent
way through a national queue
of home care packages.

exit fees home care
providers can charge an exit
fee if people switch, but such
conditions should be stated in
a Home Care Agreement
if people are already in
receipt of a package. This
means people should review
their agreement before
switching providers.
Recipients of a Home Care
Package will continue to receive
services at their existing package
level, unless they want to change
home care providers.
For those assessed as being
eligible for a Home Care
Package, but who are not yet
receiving a package, a national
queue exists and they will be
allocated a package once they
reach the front of the queue.
Positions in the queue depend
on how long recipients have
been waiting and their personal
circumstances as assessed by
an Aged Care Assessment Team
(ACAT).
What stays the same?
While the reforms are significant,
some things will remain the
same, including:
package levels four Home
Care Package levels will
remain, ranging from fewer
hours of care and services on
level one through to more on
level four.
 
funding the money from
the Australian Government
is still paid to recipients
chosen provider, not to
them personally.
fees the Home Care Package
program fee structure
and income-tested fee will
remain the same, with assets
including the family home still
excluded from means testing.

aged care assessments
an assessment will still
be required to determine
eligibility for government-
funded services.

consumer directed care
recipients can manage their
package as required, as the
consumer directed care
approach will continue to
underpin the system.
supplements veterans,
those living with dementia or
those undergoing financial
hardship will continue to
be offered supplements in
addition to the Home Care
Package subsidy.
How SummitCare
can help
Since SummitCare introduced
Home Care a few years ago it has
become a very popular service,
enabling people to enjoy an
Call our home care team today on 1300 68 55 48 to find out more
independent life in their home,
with assistance provided
by caring professionals as
needed, directed by the
clients themselves.
As a trusted provider of
home care services, we want
to ensure everyone understands
the changes that have
been introduced.
If you have any questions about
the reforms, or about Home
Care Packages, our team will
gladly provide you with all the
information and support
you need.
39
 Centre News SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017
SummitExtras
Get connected
A trial of the Konnekt phone
has commenced at Canley Vale.
The technology promotes
face-to-face interaction and
encourages residents and
family members to stay
40
connected.
Being connected has been
proven to be one of the key
factors contributing to a
persons wellbeing and sense
of worth. Its definitely had a
positive effect on the resident
at Canley Vale and her son who
calls daily, says Minh Nguyen
General Manager.
Konnekt Videophone is
the simplest video phone
available, designed specifically
to address the needs of
older people.
Using the Konnekt Videophone
requires no training. Its easier
to use than your regular phone.
Theres no keyboard, mouse
or stylus. It has no logins,
passwords or programs.
Theres not even a handset to
pick up or headset to wear. All
you need is a finger.
Employment for
all ages
South West Connect and the
team at Liverpool launched the
FUSION community program
with the boys from Liverpool
Boys High School.
lovely family and friends to
SummitCare has run the
FUSION program for the last
couple of years with the team
at Canley Vale, and its been a
huge success with one of the
students winning Fairfields
Young Citizen of the Year
this year.
The FUSION program connects
secondary school students
with the residents and family
members. The program
teaches the students how to
comfortably connect with older
people and show appreciation
for different cultures, learn new
life skills, and most importantly
have fun. Inter-generational
activities enrich the lives
of both young and old - the
innocence of a young persons
smile and laughter is a gift
that should be shared as much
as possible!
Walk the walk
Walking to help people like our
wee Mammy was a fundraising
activity set up by Mary Clarkes
raise money for Alzheimers
Australia. They not only raised
the fantastic sum of $3,790.98
but they all took part in the
Penrith Memory Walk.
One of Marys family members
said, My family and I are taking
part in the Memory Walk for
dementia, the horrible and
dreadful disease our beautiful
Granny has had for the past
6 years.
Luckily our queen is still with us
today, as strong as ever, and we
could not be more grateful! She
gives the best hugs and kisses,
the best support and guidance
and gives us a few cheeky
comments every now and then
that make us cry with laughter
until our bellies ache.

She is our wonderful wee
woman and we are so
very lucky to have her as
ours forever!
We watch our parents like the
love story The Notebook and
know our family would give
anything to have our old Mum,
Wife and Granny back again but
we know this will never be.
High tea with
the girls
Launching a suite of additional
services has been popular with
the residents and families at
Randwick with several high teas
already enjoyed and several
more booked.
Whether its for a birthday
celebration, anniversary or
Mothers Day - its the perfect
way for families to spend
some meaningful time with
their loved ones and eat some
yummy goodies!
We know how between generations.
It is already proving to be
to party! a resounding success.
Smithfield turned 20 this year Held weekly, parents and carers
and, as as we know, the crew of children are welcome to drop
at Smithfield do like a party in to SummitCare Wallsend, on
and this was no different! In Mondays from 9:45am until
true Smithfield style with all 11:45am to meet with a select
the bells and whistles the team group of residents and share in
put on a fantastic event for the activities and fun.
the residents, family members
and local partners with an
abundance of food and
Lowes fashion
fun entertainment! show
The team from Lowes set up a
Aged Care Expo pop up shop displaying a great
SummitCare St Marys opened range of items from stylish
its doors to members of the casual daywear to sleepwear
community from Cabramatta and specially designed slippers
through to a lovely couple that for residents who suffer with
lived practically next door on swollen feet. The shopping
Saddington St! Despite some
bad weather conditions, we
experience to us is an almost
everyday occurrence whether
welcomed over 100 people and we like it or not, but take
a minute and think, if this
41
15 exhibitors including Carers
was taken away from you, how
NSW, Alzheimers Australia,
you would feel?
Hearing NSW, Vision Australia,
Affinity (our preferred financial
The joy on the faces of the
partner), Health Strong,
residents was quite profound
AromaCare, Tunstall and more.
- looking through the racks,
This was a great opportunity trying items on and just simply
having fun!
to provide much needed
information to consumers in
a relaxed environment.
Wallsend
Laughter and learning are the
order of the day at a special
new playgroup that unites
some of the youngest members
of the community with
senior residents.
The group, Wallsend
Youngsters on the Summit,
was established recently by
Playgroup NSW and the
team at SummitCare Wallsend
to foster a connection
 Optimal Health SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017

SummitNews puzzles
Studies have shown that keeping the mind active can actually lead
to a longer life expectancy, a better quality of life and reduce
our chances of developing certain types of mental illness.

44
Wellbeing word finder puzzle
~ Circle each word you can see ~
ARTS
CARE
A T S N G T H M E Y J S U L E
DANCE
DEMENTIA I C M U A N J E E C U W A V X
EXPERIENCE T E E V M O I N A M N I W T P
HEALTH
N N M C Y M R E M L C A G R E
HEART
JOURNEY E N O Q A U I I B O T N D A R
JOY M O R T O R T T S L O H R E I
LOVE
MEMORY E C Y J U S E T X S L S L H E
MUSIC D T A R T S I C S T B E K L N
PREMIUM
Z I V A C M X P X C R T W O C
SONG
SPIRIT X M R G M J I E I C K A O V E
SUMMITCONNECT U M Y U P R E M I U M N S E P
SUMMITSNACKS
R U S E I R T E L I O T O C T
SUMMITSOCIAL
SUMMITSTAR Y S E T I X Y T G Q Q L A Z Y
SUMMITXTRAS S U M M I T S N A C K S Q J H
TOILETRIES
WELLBEING C I S U M I X L P V I V W A B
 1

5 6

9 10

45

Wellbeing crossword puzzle

~ Complete the crossword above ~

Across

2. The existence of an individual human 8. Have due regard for.

being or animal.
9. Newly made or obtained.
3. Action of forming new ideas, or images
Down
or concepts of external objects not present
to the senses. 1. Highly pleasant to the taste.
4. A positive change in size, and/or maturation, 5. To provide (someone) with a reason for doing
often over a period of time. something.
5. Vocal or instrumental sounds (or both) combined 6. The ideas, customs, and social behaviour of a
in such a way as to produce beauty of form, particular people or society.
harmony, and expression of emotion.
10. Feeling or showing pleasure or contentment.
7. The practice of being or tendency to be positive
or optimistic in attitude.
 Personal Preferences SummitNews Autumn/Winter 2017

S
A
S
A
su

Whats coming up? fa

23rd May 28th May 27th May 3rd June 31st May
Australias Biggest National Palliative National Reconciliation World No Tobacco Day
Morning Tea Care Week Week
46

5th June 12th June 18th-24th June 21st June

World Queens Birthday Refugee Week Red Apple Day
Environment Day

2nd July 3rd-9th July 28th July 30th July-6th August

NAIDOC Week Sleep Awareness Week World Hepatitis Day DonateLife Week

4th August 6th-12th August 19th August

Jeans for Genes Day Dental Health Week World
Humanitarian Day
CROSSWORD ANSWERS
ACROSS: 2. Life, 3. Imagination, 4. Growth, 5. Music, 7. Positivity, 8. Respect, 9. Fresh DOWN: 1. Delicious, 5. Motivate, 6. Culture, 10. Happy
SummitCare
Additional
Services
Available for purchase to enhance and
support the wellbeing of residents,
families and friends.

SummitSocial
Enjoy some social time with family and friends and
book one of our events packages.
Devonshire Deluxe BBQ

High Tea High Tea Family Pack

SummitSnacks SummitXtras
If you are feeling a little peckish, take Make your lunch special by
advantage of the healthy and naughty adding a beer, glass of wine or
goodies from the snack menu. an entree.

SummitConnect
SummitConnect gives residents,
family members and friends the
ability to connect to WiFi to browse
the internet and watch a favourite
movie or tv show.
Premium
Toiletries
Purchase our premium toiletries
and experience blends of
essential oils and natural
ingredients to enhance your life
and promote health and wellbeing.

For more details please contact reception.

Aged Care Centres
Greater Western Sydney
SummitCare Canley Vale
47 Freeman Avenue Canley Vale NSW 2166
P (02) 9728 1200 F (02) 9724 2196
E canleyvale@summitcare.com.au
Eastern Suburbs
SummitCare Randwick
15 Frenchmans Road Randwick NSW 2031
P (02) 9398 4511 F (02) 9326 4232
E randwick@summitcare.com.au

SummitCare Liverpool SummitCare Waverley

173 Elizabeth Drive Liverpool NSW 2170 321 Bronte Road Waverley NSW 2024
P (02) 9602 9044 F (02) 9821 4299 P (02) 9387 3872 F (02) 9389 5117
E liverpool@summitcare.com.au E waverley@summitcare.com.au

SummitCare Penrith
366 Jamison Road Penrith NSW 2750 Newcastle & Hunter
P (02) 4721 2512 F (02) 4721 5204
E penrith@summitcare.com.au SummitCare Wallsend
7 Bent Street Wallsend NSW 2287
SummitCare Smithfield
P (02) 4944 1500 F (02) 4951 8436
11 Nyora Avenue Smithfield NSW 2164 E wallsend@summitcare.com.au
P (02) 9755 7333 F (02) 9727 0499
E smithfield@summitcare.com.au

SummitCare St Marys
57 Saddington Street St Marys NSW 2760
P (02) 9673 6999 F (02) 9673 6888
E stmarys@summitcare.com.au

SummitCare Baulkham Hills - Opens 2017

5 Bass Drive Baulkham Hills NSW 2153
P 1300 685 548
E baulkhamhills@summitcare.com.au

Homecare & Day Centres

1300 685 548

SummitCare Offices
SummitCare Corporate
206/2-8 Brookhollow Avenue
Baulkham Hills NSW 2153
PO Box 6684 Baulkham Hills NSW 2153
P 1300 685 548
E info@summitcare.com.au
SummitCare Accounts
17 Frenchmans Road Randwick NSW 2031
PO Box 521 Randwick NSW 2031
P (02) 9314 8500 F (02) 9399 3605
E accounts@summitcare.com.au

summitcare.com.au | 1300 68 55 48