HenderCare

June 15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial, and neglect.

It’s our responsibility to protect the dignity and well-being of our elders and stand up against the abuse, mistreatment and neglect of older people.

Together, we can stop elder abuse 💜

You’ve seen therapy dogs, but have you heard of therapy horses 🐴

Well, they are making a big impact on the lives of people in aged care facilities, hospitals, and hospices.

A UK-based organisation, Dinky Ponies, organises visits of miniature Shetland ponies into aged care communities and has found that the therapy horses bring comfort and companionship, making a significant difference in the lives of older people.

These gentle companions provide emotional and physical benefits, including reducing stress, improving mood, and encouraging physical activity. Additionally, individuals light up when interacting with these loving animals, creating moments of joy and connection.

Sarah Woodland, owner of Dinky Ponies, says people are sometimes shocked when they walk into the room.

“A lot are very surprised, especially if they are in a room that you have to get to by [elevator], and they would never expect to see a pony come in their bedroom!”

To read the full article on Dinky Ponies from People, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/GW7750SiuK1

[Image source: Facebook | Dinky Ponies]

National Blood Donor Day aims to raise awareness of the need for regular blood and plasma donations. It is also a day to celebrate and thank donors for their support in saving people’s lives!

We sat down with Paige, a HenderCare Speech Pathologist and our Lifeblood Champion, to find out why she is such an advocate for blood donations.

"It’s really important, as 1 in 3 Australians will need blood in their lifetime. That means it’s highly likely someone in your family, in your office, or your football team will need blood".

To read our interview with Paige, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/CHqO50ShB0f

We thank Paige for her ongoing commitment and encourage anyone who can donate to consider taking part to support this worthy cause.

Men's Health Week is a global initiative to raise awareness about the health challenges men face worldwide. Highlighting the importance of physical, mental, and emotional well-being, it encourages healthier lifestyles and facilitates open conversations about mental health.

This year, members of the HenderCare team are participating in ‘The Push-Up Challenge’, a fundraiser to complete 3,249 push-ups, one for each of the Australian lives lost to su***de in 2022 - of which a staggering 75% were men.

We encourage everyone to consider their efforts in supporting men’s health; whether you are starting the conversation or simply checking in with your loved ones, every action counts! 💪

Volunteer driver, David Morris, spent most of his time driving patients battling cancer across rural Victoria to medical appointments, but when free, he spent time alone on his farm.

After losing his wife to cancer 14 years earlier, David had no intention of getting married again, but that was before he met Shirley.

After forming an undeniable spark while driving Shirley from her chemotherapy treatments, the relationship blossomed between the two.

David acknowledged how his newfound love surprised him:

“You never know when love is there, it could be hiding around the corner any time”.

We wish David and Shirley a wonderful and happy marriage!

To read the full article, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/wSXF50SauAM

At HenderCare, we are dedicated to helping people of all ages and needs with our speech therapy services! 🗣️ Our skilled therapists can assist in improving speaking skills, support communication tools, enhance reading and writing, and provide safe eating tips.

If you are based in WA and looking for Speech Therapy services, we currently have capacity!

To find out more, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/Lp4n50S85Ip

📣 Applications are now open for the 2024 HenderCare Foundation Grants!

If you’re considering applying for either the HenderCare Foundation Remote Communities Grant or the HenderCare Foundation Disability Grant, now is the time to do it!

Applications close Friday, 12th July.

To learn more about the grants or to apply, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/yRPn50S97pm

This World Environment Day, the theme is “Our Land. Our Future: Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience.”

With 40% of the world’s land damaged, affecting millions, it's time to take action.

Discover how you can help support the environment, revive water sources, and restore our soil.

To learn more, click the link below.
https://www.hendercare.com.au/news/news/our-land-our-future-how-we-can-help-to-restore-our-planet/

Discover the benefits of occupational therapy at HenderCare! 🌟 Our personalised services can help you stay safe, active, and engaged in daily life. From daily activities and home adjustments to assistive devices and safety checks, our therapists can create custom plans just for you.

If you are based in WA and looking for Occupational Therapy services, we currently have capacity!

To read the full article, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/WaYi50S85zX

In a remarkable milestone that few achieve, we are thrilled to introduce a truly special HenderCare client, Sir Eric Neal, who celebrates his 100th birthday today.

Born in the roaring twenties, Sir Eric has witnessed a century of immense change and progress, from the evolution of technology to shifts in global politics and culture.

From being the Governor of South Australia, to a married man with a family, join us as we explore the life and times of a remarkable man who has lived through a century of extraordinary moments.

To read our interview with Sir Eric Neal, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/uQCW50S6ro7

Today, we celebrate Mabo Day, commemorating Eddie Koiki Mabo and his successful efforts to overturn the legal concept of terra nullius, meaning 'land belonging to no one'.

Eddie Mabo's tireless fight lasted ten years and was ultimately victorious, although he sadly passed away before witnessing the triumph.

His case was a significant step in recognising the land rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, highlighting their deep connection and rightful claim to their land.

A new app designed by First Nations peoples in WA is helping to preserve language and culture.

The Mamutjitji Story app integrates a local Dreamtime tale that describes the life cycle of a common desert insect and teaches lessons on both Aboriginal and Western scientific concepts.

Building on the innovative approach of blending Indigenous storytelling with Western science, this app offers students a unique educational experience that includes bush trips and narrative-based learning.

Ngalia man and co-writer of the app, Kado Muir, says new technology is not foreign to First Nations peoples and he hopes that this app will encourage other Indigenous individuals to use technology.

"If you're in an Indigenous community wherever in the world, don't be afraid of technology, use technology for your own purposes".

To read the full article, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/VFeY50S1wxg

Nominations for the SA Child Protection Awards have been extended to the 10th of June!

Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to support children in care? Or perhaps an outstanding young person with a care experience?

Consider nominating them for an award at the link below.
https://ow.ly/V9cG50S1x2O

Good luck to all nominees!

Happy World Marketing Day to our incredible Marketing & Communications Team 🎉

Today, we celebrate the creativity, strategy, and hard work you bring to our organisation daily.

Thank you for your ongoing dedication and all that you do for HenderCare!

Today marks the first day of National Reconciliation Week (NRW).

The 2024 theme for NRW is "Now More Than Ever", which reminds us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will —and must —continue.

As a proud Reconciliation Australia RAP partner, HenderCare is working towards building foundations that will create meaningful, sustainable, and measurable actions for further reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

To learn more about National Reconciliation Week, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/fBWO50RTHYJ

As a proud Reconciliation Australia RAP partner, HenderCare stands with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities on National Sorry Day.

We acknowledge the impact of the Stolen Generations and honour the strength and resilience of those affected.

Today reminds us of the importance of supporting the healing journey of these communities and working towards true reconciliation.

Together, we can create a future of understanding, respect, and unity.

Are you feeling confused about Aged Care services 🫤❓

We understand that navigating the aged care space for yourself or a loved one can be challenging.

You may have heard about government-funded programs, such as:

Home Care Packages (HCP)
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
Veterans Home Care (VHC)

But what are they? How do you know what you are eligible for?

Our latest article aims to provide you with information about the different Aged Care program options and point you in the right direction.

To read the full article, click the link below.
https://www.hendercare.com.au/news/news/understanding-aged-care/

Kees-Jan van der Klooster, a former Paralympic sit skier, started the Wheelchair Skills program to improve the experience of wheelchair users.

He first demonstrated wheelchair skills in schools, showing children how they can be used. But he saw a larger problem: people who used wheelchairs weren’t shown how to use them safely and confidently.

With over 180,000 individuals in Australia using wheelchairs, it is important that individuals feel confident and safe when using them.

Kees-Jan explains that his goal is not just to improve someone’s wheelchair skills:

“My main mission is to give people self-respect and self-esteem in a conscious way that they really grow as a human being”.

We hope to see this program grow and help wheelchair users feel more confident in the community.

To read the full article, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/A0Ei50RS7YA

As part of HenderCare Foundation’s continued support of the community, selected charitable organisations receive a significant donation each year through a relationship between the Foundation and the Morialta Trust.

We are very excited to announce the 2023 grant recipients 🎉

HenderCare Foundation Disability Grant – Australian Schools Plus
HenderCare Foundation Remote Communities Grant – Children's Charity Network & CareFlight

To learn more about how these grants will be used, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/9qf750RQu2P

Palliative Care Week aims to raise awareness about palliative care services and advocate for the availability of quality end-of-life care for all when and where they need it.

Every individual deserves holistic care that respects their dignity as they near the end of their life journey.

This is an important reminder to initiate discussions with family and friends about planning for future needs, including end-of-life care.

Based in Western Australia, Starkick is an all-abilities football program curated for children aged between 5 – 17 years old.

Starkick helps children who are unable to participate in traditional team sports either by choice or circumstance by breaking down barriers, such as accessibility, and providing them with support and resources to help them play football.

Not only do participants have fun and play football, but they also get the chance to improve their social skills and fitness.

To learn more about Starkick, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/1kCy50RHMl2

Today is IDAHOBIT 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️

IDAHOBIT stands for the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersex Discrimination and Transphobia, more recently referred to as the Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination.

Celebrated globally on May 17th, it is a day to raise awareness, promote acceptance, and oppose discrimination faced by the LGBTQIA+ community.

The HenderCare Group is committed to maintaining a professional and safe working environment with a zero-tolerance approach to sexual abuse, bullying, discrimination, and harassment.

We seek to ensure that all team members, service recipients and associated contacts feel safe and respected and are valued regardless of their culture, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability or socio-economic background.

To learn more about IDAHOBIT, or to find out ways to get involved, click the link below.
https://www.idahobit.org.au/

Happy International Nurses Day 🌟🩺

Today, we celebrate nurses across the world for their dedication, compassion and commitment to the hard work they do.

A massive shoutout to all the nurses within our HenderCare team – we appreciate you!

Happy Mother’s Day 🌷

Wishing all the mothers, grandmothers, mother figures, and those special to us a lovely day.

We would also like to acknowledge that this day may be difficult for some, and our thoughts are with you.

Meet HenderCare Home Care Package (HCP) client Irene and her son, Ashley.

In this special Mother's Day article, Irene and Ashley share their personal & heartfelt stories and discuss the evolving dynamics of their relationship.

To read the full article, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/oJOJ50RB4KA

💡 Encouraging girls to consider STEM 💭

A workshop created by the Academy for Enterprising Girls and the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia is designed to get girls thinking and pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics (STEM).

Tiffani Seaton, who runs the workshop, says it’s important girls learn how to solve problems confidently when they are young.

“We want girls to develop these skills at a young age and see themselves as future leaders and future founders”.

The federal government-funded workshop is resonating with participants, including ten-year-old Hannah.

“I really like technology and I’ve always thought about making an app”.

Over 16,500 participants have undertaken the workshop since 2020, and the program is only gaining further momentum.

Amazing!

To learn more about the workshop, read the full article at the link below.
https://ow.ly/mPYc50RA1Ee

Allied health professionals provide essential healthcare services in the community, helping to support people of all ages, including older individuals, children, and individuals with disabilities.

Allied health professionals work in various areas to support a person’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being, which can include:
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech Pathology
- Psychology

To read the full article, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/ko0250RA0HE

Happy Orthodox Easter to all our clients, team members, and community celebrating this weekend.

At 94 years old, Les Brookfield has just completed his 100th parkrun and has no intention of stopping!

After a “young chap” in his retirement village signed him up, he has noticed improvements in his health and fitness and has enjoyed being more social.

Les explained that he has been supported by his family, friends and others in his retirement village.

“The encouragement I got from the people, they're fantastic”.

After a couple of falls, Les now uses a walker and feels more confident and safe to continue his parkrun journey.

Way to go, Les!

To read the full article, click the link below.
https://ow.ly/TpMs50RvkAR