Resthaven Mount Gambier Hosts a Meaningful Ageing Seminar

Earlier this week, Resthaven Mount Gambier hosted a free spiritual care seminar for those who support older people, which was described as "thought provoking" and "informative" by participants.

The seminar, entitled Spiritual Care in a Diverse World, was run by Meaningful Ageing Australia, a not-for-profit peak body helping organisations and groups to respond to the pastoral and spiritual needs of older people, their significant others, and their carers.

Wendy Morey, Resthaven Executive Manager Workforce Development & Governance, says, "The session engaged participants in a process of developing and deepening understandings of spirituality and spiritual care."

"It also aimed to develop confidence in providing basic spiritual care, and discerning when to refer to a skilled practitioner."

The seminar was a great success, with one participant, Resthaven Mount Gambier Lifestyle Assistant, Jenny Chapman, saying, "All topics and discussions were very interesting, and gave me a lot of perspective about my role in aged care and in the community."

"I thoroughly enjoyed the session, and definitely got a lot out of it relating to my lifestyle role with residents and company."

Karen Bunt, Coordinator, Resthaven Limestone Coast Community Services, said, "I enjoyed this workshop very much; it was very insightful. I will most certainly attend again."

Volunteer, Joan Cooper, says, "It covered quite a lot of different ideas, and meanings of thinking things through."

Fellow volunteer, Ross, described it as "very thought provoking – thank you very much."

Wendy says, "We were delighted that Meaningful Ageing Australia chose Resthaven to host this very important seminar."

"Like Meaningful Ageing Australia, Resthaven is also dedicated to ensuring older people have access to high quality pastoral and spiritual care."

"Resthaven residents are supported by Coordinating Chaplains and volunteer Chaplains Assistants at all Resthaven residential homes."

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