AnglicareSA Westbourne Park residential care home has welcomed the Lunar New Year in style, treating its 90 residents to a stunning display of music, colour and dance.
As chants of ‘Gung Hay Fat Choy’ echoed throughout the home, residents gathered to watch as the lion dance weaved its way through the crowd in celebration of the Year of the Rat.
AnglicareSA General Manager – Aged Care Services, Daniel Aitchison said hosting these cultural events can have a profound positive impact on the wellbeing of those living in residential care.
“For older loved ones in aged care homes, various circumstances can make it challenging to get out, socialise and participate in events with family and friends,” he said.
“By bringing the excitement to our care facilities – we enable residents unable to travel, or who may not have any family or friends, to experience the joys we sometimes take for granted.
“As people age and their physical and cognitive abilities decline, celebrating cultural events and special occasions is one simple, yet priceless way they can have meaningful engagement with life.”
AnglicareSA residents smiled and laughed as the lion dance and fortune god made their way upstairs to meet those unable to make it down to the foyer.
“It was a wonderful show. It’s so good to see that AnglicareSA introduces and appreciates other cultures and indeed that other cultures share it with us too.”
Peter – AnglicareSA Westbourne Park Resident
Other residents commented on the colour and energy of the show, and described it as “lots of fun” and something that made them “feel very happy”.
To make the experience all the more special, residents’ families were also invited.
“If you ask any resident what they treasure most in life, they’ll likely reply with ‘family’, ‘friendships’, and the many happy memories and events celebrated with their loved ones,” Mr Aitchison said.
“Putting on this event is just one great example of how we, as aged care providers, can go above and beyond to tackle social isolation and provide the highest calibre of care.”
