In This Edition: The Queen’s Birthday, Staying Healthy This Winter, COVID-19 and Aged Care Industry Updates, and much more!

Welcome to Our 365 Care June Newsletter

June marks the beginning of the winter season with a cold snap predicted to hit very soon.

Whether you have plans to go on a holiday trip or if you just want to keep warm and cosy at home, we’ll help you stay updated on trends, issues and stories that matter to you.

So sit back, enjoy a nice, warm cuppa and enjoy our latest newsletter!

Public Holiday – Here We Come!

The Queen’s Birthday is a public holiday observed in most states and territories across Australia on the second Monday of June, resulting in a much-anticipated June long weekend.

Queen Elizabeth II was born on 21 April 1926 and has just recently celebrated her 95th birthday. However, the Queen’s Birthday is celebrated here in June because April 21 would fall either during Easter or too close to Anzac Day.

Over in the West, Western Australia Day is celebrated in June, so the Queen’s Birthday holiday is taken towards the end of September or at the beginning of October each year. With the Western Australian Governor making the announcement closer to the time.

Did You Know?

1. The Queen’s Birthday holiday is also known as Volunteer’s Day in South Australia.
2. Queen Elizabeth II is currently the longest-reigning British monarch in history, approaching 70 years.

Health Focus For The Month: Preventing Coughs and Colds This Winter

As the temperature drops, the sniffles often increase. However, with the closing of the borders, we have also seen a significant drop in the common colds and flus associated with the winter months. Nevertheless, it’s still important to be vigilant and understand how colds and flus can affect our health.

The common cold is caused by a viral infection of the nose and throat at the upper respiratory tract. It’s normally innocuous, even if it doesn’t feel that way. A common cold can be caused by a variety of viruses.

Many of these symptoms are shared with the Coronavirus, which has drastically changed the way we live our lives over the last 18 months. It’s vital that any symptoms should be taken seriously, particularly for the more vulnerable members of our community, and a consultation with your doctor is highly recommended. If necessary, a COVID-19 test should also be conducted immediately.

Like most things, prevention beats cure when it comes to coughs and colds, so here are some simple tips to prevent them before they become a major health issue.

1. Wash Your Hands

Keeping your hands clean is essential throughout the cold and flu season. The virus can be transferred by aerosol droplets from coughing and sneezing, as well as by touching objects that have been contaminated.

When you touch your nose, mouth, or eyes with contaminated hands, the virus enters your body. Proper handwashing should last about 10-15 seconds in warm soapy water.

2. Stay Warm and Dry

Colds and flus caused by viruses cannot be prevented by staying warm and dry. However, if you have a cold or flu virus, remaining warm and dry may lower your chances of experiencing symptoms such as coughing and sneezing.

3. Don’t Share!

Sometimes, sharing isn’t caring and that’s certainly true when it comes to coughs and colds. Thoroughly wash glasses and utensils and avoid sharing them to prevent the spreading of
the virus.

4. Wipe and disinfect

Viruses can stay for hours on common household surfaces such as doorknobs and light switches. These should be wiped and disinfected regularly.

If you are getting domestic services, remember to remind the workers to clean the door handles and switches thoroughly.

5. Avoid contact with crowds

Some people may already be infected without even knowing it. As much as possible, it’s best to avoid crowds during the cough and cold season to avoid contracting or transmitting
an infection.

6. Boost your immune system

This includes eating a balanced diet, doing simple cardiovascular exercises, and getting plenty of rest. Practising a healthy lifestyle will keep your immune system functioning properly.

If you do catch a cold or cough, you can alleviate the symptoms by doing the following:
• Get 7-8 hours of sleeping time for the body to heal.
• Drink lots of fluids, especially water.
• Take paracetamol to relieve aches, discomfort and fever.
• Take decongestant medications, as prescribed by your doctor.
• Try natural remedies such as chicken soup, hot water with ginger, tea with honey, garlic, and fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin C (oranges and tomatoes).

Following these tips and treatments can help keep those winter blues at bay! And if you’re interested in getting a flu vaccine, discuss it first with your doctor or healthcare provider about it.

You can find more information at https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/flu- vaccine-faqs.

Can Pressure Wounds Be Prevented?

365 Care Community Engagement - JuneWhilst pressure wounds – also known as bedsores – are often noted as being a sign of neglect, the unfortunate reality is that some cannot be prevented.

Pressure wounds are particularly common in people who have medical issues that limit their ability to shift positions or force them to spend the majority of their time in a bed or chair.

They can be prevented by moving regularly, even if it is just to get out of bed and move around your room.
However, pressure wounds can also arise as part of the end of life process, and they cannot be prevented no matter what precautions are taken.

In this case, the appearance of such pressure wounds should be immediately addressed and appropriate care can be taken to limit the spread and risk of infection. Ultimately the patient needs to be kept comfortable and out of pain.

COVID-19 Updates

Victoria In Lockdown

As we enter June, Melbourne is once again on lockdown as the Victorian government races to contain the latest outbreak.
Initially, the Victorian government placed the state under a seven-day ‘Circuit Breaker’ lockdown, which was extended a further seven days as it was reported that there were over 350 exposure sites.
This situation is extremely fluid and we wish our friends and family in Victoria all the best as they struggle through yet another lockdown.

Vaccine Not Mandatory In Aged Care, But Staff Who Refuse May Face Reduced Working Hours

365 Care Community Engagement - JuneWhile the government has said that the COVID-19 vaccination would not be required for aged care employees, some employees are concerned that declining the vaccination may result in a reduction in rostered hours.

People receiving aged care services in their own homes have the right to refuse carers who are unvaccinated. At 365 Care, we have encouraged all our staff to be COVID-vaccinated. However, at this time, it has not been mandated for all aged care workers.

If you have any concerns about your caregivers and their vaccination status, please discuss this with your Coordinator as many of our staff are already booked for their COVID vaccine.

Aged Care Industry Update

Top 6 Key Takeaways From The 2021 Budget

The 2021 Federal Budget is out and here are six key points that will affect the aged care industry:

1. $17.7 billion in targeted new funding to significantly improve the Federal Aged Care system
2. Federal government to fund another 80,000 new home care packages, bringing the total number of packages available to 275,000
3. $1.9 billion allocated for the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines
4. A new and additional tax cut for 10million low and middle-income earners
5. New funding for medicines that treat breast cancer, lung cancer, severe osteoporosis and asthma
6. $13.2 billion over the next four years for the National Disability Insurance Scheme

This means that there should be more noticeable improvements in terms of services and waiting lists for Home Care Packages.

We at 365 Care welcome these developments in our commitment to ensure that you receive the best compassionate care for your peace of mind.

Slice of Life Stories

111 Reasons To Smile: Australia’s Oldest Person Celebrates 111th Birthday

365 Care Community Engagement - JuneDexter Kruger turned 111 years and 124 days old on Monday, 17th May, and made it to the record books as the oldest Australian ever.

Born in January 1910, Dexter surpassed the previous record-holder Jack Lockett, a World War I soldier who died in 2002 at the age of 111 years and 123 days.

Dexter began writing short stories and poems after retirement. He has since released 13 volumes, the most recent being his autobiography.
“It has been and will continue to be a great honour to be the oldest man ever to be in Australia,” he said.

Hit Tv Series ‘old People’s Home For 4 Year Olds’ Renewed For Second Season

365 Care Community Engagement - JuneABC’s highly acclaimed documentary series ‘Old People’s Home for 4-Year-Olds’ has returned for a second season.

The show brings together a group of aged care and retirement home residents and preschoolers for daily activities to see if uniting young and old could improve the health and well- being of older people. Aesh Rao was at first hesitant when she was given a spot on the second season of the hit TV show but since her appearance, the experience has enriched her perspective of ageing.

“There is a change in me,” she said. “It’s almost like I have allowed myself to go out and do different things. It’s opened so many doors to me. It has given me an opening into a vibrant community and an understanding of how others live and others with similar ageing problems.”

She further revealed, “My loneliness after losing my husband, that can’t be filled, but it has given me access to things I can do, and I forget it for some time. I can do things rather than sitting around thinking about it.”

Tech News

Robotic Pup Brings Comfort To Elderly Living With Dementia

365 Care Community Engagement - JuneThere is no denying that animals can have a good influence on people. However, there are certain worries regarding pet-owners who are struggling with dementia, due to the possibility of forgetfulness when it comes to feeding, grooming and cleaning up after the animal.

A firm in the United States that makes robotic pets for the elderly hopes to alter this with the addition of a third furry buddy to their fleet of animal
friends. The freckled pup, which resembles a brown and white cocker spaniel, is Ageless Innovation’s third interactive ‘robopet,’ joining a golden retriever and a cat in silver, tuxedo, or orange tabby options.

This robopet dog was created and sold by Joy for All, a brand under Ageless Innovations, for elderly persons, individuals living with dementia, and other people suffering from cognitive decline.

These robots are meant to simulate the feeling of keeping a “genuine” pet, based on market research, consumer insights, and input from elderly people and their loved ones.

“The joy of having something to care for was a strong finding across many of the studies,” said lead author Dr Rebecca Abbott, from the University of Exeter Medical School.

Hearty Winter Comfort Food

Enjoy these delicious treats from Taste.com.au to keep you warm and satisfied this winter season!

365 Care Community Engagement - JuneHealthier Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup

A classic soup that’s oh-so soothing and great for sharing!

Ingredients

  • 100g dried rice vermicelli noodles
  • 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 (about 400g) small chicken breast fillets
  • 270ml can light coconut cream
  • 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
  • 1/2 wombok (Chinese cabbage), thinly shredded
  • 2 green shallots, trimmed, very finely sliced Fresh coriander sprigs, to serve
  • Long fresh red chilli, sliced, to serve (optional)
  • 4cm-piece fresh ginger, peeled, julienned
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons yellow curry paste
  • 400g sweet potato, peeled, cut into 1.5cm pieces
  • 1.5L (6 cups) Massel salt reduced chicken style liquid stock

Instructions
Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 mins
Total time: 35 mins

1. Place the noodles in a heatproof bowl. Pour over enough boiling water
to cover. Set aside for 5-7 minutes or until tender. Drain.
2. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Season the chicken and cook for 6 minutes each side or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
3. Add the ginger and garlic to the wok and stir-fry for 1 minute or until softened. Add the curry paste and stir-fry for 30 seconds or until aromatic. Add the sweet potato, stock and coconut cream. Bring to the boil and then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavours to develop. Stir in the soy sauce.
4. While the soup is simmering, slice the chicken. Divide the cabbage and noodles among serving bowls. Pour over the soup and top with sliced chicken, shallot, coriander and chilli, if using.

365 Care Community Engagement - JuneApricot Chicken Pot Roast

A budget-friendly feast that’s perfect for family gatherings!

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2kg whole chicken
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 40g sachet French onion soup mix
  • 2 cups apricot nectar
  • 1/4 cup brandy (optional)3 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 6 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 large red capsicum, thickly sliced
  • 2 red onions, cut into wedges
  • 410g can apricot halves, drained
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
  • Fresh thyme, to serve
  • Fresh flat-leaf parsley sprigs, to serve
  • Mashed potato, to serve

Instructions
Serves: 6
Prep time: 20 mins
Total time: 2 hours

1. Preheat the oven to 220C/200C fan-forced.
2. Drizzle half the oil into a large, heavy-based flameproof casserole dish. Pat chicken dry with a paper towel, including the cavity. Place chicken in a dish. Fill the cavity with lemon. Tie up legs with kitchen string. Tuck wings under chicken.
3. Sprinkle chicken with some of the soup mix. Sprinkle remaining soup mix around chicken. Add nectar, brandy (if using), garlic, thyme and 1⁄2 cup cold water to the dish. Drizzle chicken with remaining oil. Season with salt and pepper. Bake for 15 minutes.
4. Reduce oven temperature to 180C/160C fan-forced. Bake for 1 hour. Add capsicum and onion. Bake for a further 45 minutes, adding apricots and zucchini for the last 15 minutes of cooking time, or until juices run clear when the thickest part of the chicken is pierced with a skewer. Stand for 10 minutes. Using a large metal spoon, skim and discard fat from the surface.

Mind Games

Winter Crossword Puzzle

365 Care Community Engagement - June

Across
2. Activity that involves sliding down a snow-covered hill on a circular object
4. Something you light to keep warm
6. Movement or motion people sometimes do to try to keep warm
7. Clusters of ice crystals that fall from the sky
9. Hand tool used to remove snow from sidewalks or driveways

Down
1. Clothing item that people often wear under a sweater or shirt during winter
3. Footwear designed to keep feet and lower legs warm
4. Descriptive term for extremely cold weather
5. Location in a home that wood or gas logs are used in to create warmth
8. Food that is believed to be warming; comes in various flavours

Brain Teasers

1. Say the days of the week backwards and then try saying them in alphabetical order.
2. Name two objects for every letter in your first name. Work up to five objects and try to use different items each time.
3. Look around you, wherever you are. Within two minutes, try to find 5 red things that will fit in your pockets and 5 blue objects that are too big to fit.

Upcoming Events

Movie Morning On Friday, 25th June
TIME: 9:30 am
WHERE: Blacktown West Point, Top Level Car Park
RSVP: 18th June

Christmas In July Friday, 16th July
TIME:  12noon – 3:00pm
WHERE: Lily’s Restaurant and Bar, Seven Hills
COST: $20 per person
RSVP: 9th July

Please inform your Coordinator if you wish to join us or email: office@365care.com.au

Service You Can Trust

At 365 Care, we provide quality, compassionate home care in Western Sydney for the elderly and for adults with a disability who want to remain independent in their own homes. We work alongside families seeking peace of mind whilst building caring relationships that are based on honesty, respect and advocacy.
For more information on the aged care services and disability services we offer and how we can assist in maximising the value from your home care packages, contact us on 1300 365 248.

WINTER CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS
ACROSS: 2. Tubing 4. Fire 6. Shivering 7. Snowflakes 9. Shovel
DOWN: 1. Turtle Neck 3. Boots 4. Frigid 5. Fireplace 8. Soup

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