November 11th, 2021Hepburn House residents out and about

IF YOU think it’s been a long 20 months or so, put yourself in the shoes of the residents of Hepburn House.

Visitors have been restricted during the many periods of lockdowns in accordance with government guidelines and specified reasons.
But they have kept busy with the Lifestyle team thinking up lots of games and activities including the very popular armchair travel.
Lifestyle coordinator Lily Bof said afternoons of armchair travel had been one of the most enjoyable activities with fake passports and airline tickets, and slideshows of countries including Spain and Italy. Even the kitchen staff got involved, cooking up some exotic meals to add to the atmosphere.
But with the latest lockdown lifted at the end of October, residents are now seeing family and friends again, enjoying entertainment and visiting gardens and cafes.
“With the lovely warm weather we have been enjoying we have been able to have picnics at gardens around Daylesford, Trentham and Castlemaine,” Lily said.
“It has definitely been hard to remain upbeat but now everyone is really excited to see their families coming in for a visit, or going out for a coffee, or just seeing their grandkids and great-grandchildren for the first time. That is really nice.
“We also had entertainer Vanessa Craven in last week – they really love her being here again.”
Hepburn House manager Dianne Jones said it was fantastic to be able to open the aged care facility again, and also for residents to be able to get back into the community.
“We have been running a group called Ageing (Dis)gracefully for a couple of months now but residents have not been able to take part. Now they can join everyone for morning tea on a Thursday at the Convent Gallery. It is just lovely that we can be out and about finally.”
Ms Jones said there were some restrictions still in place and anyone who wanted to visit was encouraged to be double vaccinated. If not they would have to undergo a rapid antigen test. Visitors must wear masks and are not allowed in communal areas, she said. “Anyone with any queries can call us on 5348 8100. We still have to be careful.”