Left to right, resident Berl Esler, diversional therapist Jo Hayes, registered diversional therapist Barbara Caffell, and resident Gordon Campbell with the award. PHOTO/ELI HILL
Eli Hill
Lyndale Care’s team have gained national recognition for the way they care.
The aged and dementia care facility took out the InvoCare small operator industry award at the 2019 NZACA/EBOS Healthcare Excellence in Care Awards held at Te Papa last week.
The national award recognised the team’s achievements and new initiatives created through the last year.
Initiatives included a food share pantry, reminiscing room, sensory room, and intergenerational care, as well as a falls prevention programme involving exercise, registered diversional therapist Barbara Caffell said.
“They’re more active and feel part of the community.”
The driving force behind the changes had been manager Mary Leighton who had been at the facility for just over 12 months, Caffell said.
“She’s our maker and shaker, it comes from the whole team the heartfelt gratitude we felt for the things she’s done.”
The team, who care for 59 residents across Lyndale Manor and Villa, won $5000 worth of goods for first place.
Caffell said the residents were “really excited about it” and would probably “have a little party” to celebrate.
“The residents responded really well to the changes.
“They love being involved and being part of the community.
“The residents are really happy moving forward.
“Rather than sitting around during the day they’ve got things they can participate in.”
The award had been a team effort between the staff and residents, diversional therapist Jo Hayes said.
“The team having a positive attitude has had a big impact.
“Since we began the changes the resident’s participation has increased twofold.”
