May 17, 2021
Residential Aged Care, CHL
Reconnecting with family across the seas
With the assistance of staff at St Hedwig Village Aged Care in Blacktown, resident Hellmut has reconnected with his long-lost sister and children in Germany.
When Waltraud, a resident at St Hedwig Village, in Blacktown flicks through her memory book, her eyes light up with delight.
Waltraud, who is just four years shy of a century, has been residing at St Hedwig Village for over two years.
“To help our residents stay connected with their families and relatives during COVID-19, we have encouraged them to make use of video calls, phone calls and text messages mostly,” says Margaret, Recreational Activities Officer.
“However, in Waltraud’s case, the Leisure and Lifestyle team intervened and went one step further - we came up with the idea to create a special photo memory book.”
The memory book was created using photos provided by Waltraud’s daughter, Eve, who regularly dials in and connects with Waltraud via WhatsApp video calls. The Leisure and Lifestyle team printed out the photos that Eve sent through, to create the special book.
“It was difficult to elicit a positive response from Mum, who has issues with her hearing. But when I started to show her photos of our family and of her past in the video calls, her eyes started to light up and she became more communicative,” says Eve, Waltraud’s daughter.
“Since the creation of the memory book, there has been a noticeable change in Mum’s demeanour and now she smiles so much more!
“The book has also triggered her long term memory and she can reminisce about her days during World War II and when she used to sing. I’m grateful to the team at the Home for coming up with the idea!”
Above: Waltraud's Memory Book
Waltraud has a unique past and was an accomplished vocalist in her former years. She used to sing to injured German soldiers in hospitals, during World War II. Waltraud was also a member of multiple choirs, and she travelled and performed at events around Australia. During the war, she was also involved in writing letters to the families of the soldiers who could not write themselves, due to war-related injuries.
Above: Waltrud singing with the Concordian Choir, Christmas 2014
“The memory book has been a catalyst for such great memories for Mum,” says Eve.
“Mum has also been able to look at her ever-growing great grandchildren now. They all see her as an inspiration due to her resilience – she is seen as a pillar of strength for them which is lovely.”
St Hedwig Village, in Blacktown is surrounded by native bushland and is like a little oasis hidden away in the middle of Blacktown. The garden areas feature pathways, shaded outdoor areas and seating which provide the perfect opportunity for residents and visitors to spend quality time outdoors and enjoy the fresh air. There are a number of activities for the residents to enjoy such as exercise classes, cooking groups, bus trips and regular church services.
For more information on St Hedwig Village call us on 1800 225 474 or visit The St Hedwig Location Page.
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Residential Aged Care, CHL
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