On Friday mornings at Albany’s Rosedale Village, the arrival of a small bus brings a refreshing burst of life. Disembarking are a dozen or so exuberant four- and five-year-olds from nearby Lollipops kindy, and within minutes the village hums with new energy. Residents are armed with pool noodles, the children are given balloons, and a cheerful chaos erupts, followed by songs, artwork and, eventually, morning tea for all. For village coordinator Jolene, it’s one of her weekly highlights. “It’s very precious when you see the smiles on the residents' faces when the kids arrive,” she says. The visits began last November and are now an important fortnightly part of the village’s wider approach to maintaining strong connections with its surrounding North Shore community. Other activities include two 'happy hours' a week with entertainers from the neighbouring community, and weekly K9 pet visits.
The residents have opportunities to go out often, too – trips to local malls, scenic bus trips, days out to nurseries and cafés, and resident choice days (often to nearby thrift stores). Tuesdays are for barbecues on the deck, and there’s weekly karaoke, movie nights, bingo, exercise sessions, arts and cooking games. Feeding the tūī and fish helps residents stay connected with nature.
For 'Meaningful Moments' assistant Shirley, helping residents stay engaged is personal. She has worked across a wide range of roles, but caring for family members with Alzheimer’s drew her into aged care. “I’m very familiar with residential facilities as I’d go in and out to visit my dad and aunties,” she says. “Being on the family side of it gave me a real understanding of how much good care and connection matter.” Shirley’s role is to help residents continue to enjoy the things that matter to them, even if life has changed. “We work as a team to bring out the best in people,” she says.
For residents like Helen, that support makes all the difference. Helen, who will soon turn 90, moved to Rosedale Village from Greenhithe about a year ago after a series of falls which had her and her family worried. She and her daughter visited several retirement villages before choosing Rosedale. “Some of the other places felt a bit like hotels,” Helen says. “But when we walked in here, I felt the cosiness and the warmth of people straight away.” Helen has embraced village life. Stretch classes, happy hour and social activities keep her busy, and she especially enjoys the kindergarten visits. “I've got a lovely apartment too, with a balcony. I sit out there and enjoy the view of the forests,” she says.
From shared activities and outings to visits from local children and everyday catch-ups over tea, life at Rosedale Village helps residents stay connected to the world around them, with a little extra support in the background.
Rosedale Village
255 Rosedale Road, Albany
09 414 1144
alden.co.nz
