Human Connection in a Time of Physical Distancing

Human connection is vital now as much as ever. Opal Aged Care's person-centred care fundamentally means deeply knowing residents and acknowledging each person as an individual whose background, culture, beliefs, family, work, and social life have shaped who they are and how they see the world. This is at the heart of Opal's approach to care. It means supporting residents to live a meaningful life every day in a personalised and considered way.

Understanding residents’ likes and dislikes enables staff to create opportunities for purposeful interactions and human connection in Opal care homes. Socialising together can play a significant role in boosting the overall wellbeing and quality of life of residents. Now, with physical distancing in place, it’s more important than ever that we continue to find ways to enable meaningful interaction, where new and old friendships can blossom.

Joan lives at Opal Sale. In the lead up to her 83rd birthday, the team discovered that Joan had never had a birthday party, nor had she received a gift or even a card. When Joan made a wish in the Wishing Well to have a birthday party, it was a wonderful opportunity for Opal Sale's team to celebrate Joan in a way that was important to her.

The team and residents threw her a birthday party complete with balloons, party hats, and gifts, and as the very special guest of honour, Joan wore a tiara and says she felt like a queen. She was delighted to celebrate this milestone with her friends in her home and enjoyed making new connections with residents who joined in on the celebrations.

COVID-19 times have not deterred Opal from their purpose: to bring joy to those they care for. Opal's homes are the same as your home; residents are comfortable, happy and they live a dignified life. Opal's residents are encouraged to remain independent and staff support them in building authentic relationships and connections.

Val (pictured on the right, in the top photo with her friend Betty) lives at Opal Bairnsdale. Recently Val chatted with team member Kylie, and shared, “For the very first time in my life I have a best friend, I can make my own decisions, I feel happy and supported when I need help”.

Val grew up in a family that moved around frequently and this made it challenging for her to maintain close friendships. When Val married and started a family of her own, her focus was on providing a home and raising her children, which did not leave her much opportunity to socialise. As her children grew up and moved away, Val found her world becoming smaller. Val’s husband had always made the decisions through their married life so, when he died and Val moved in with her daughter, it was only natural that her daughter took up that role.

Since moving into Opal Bairnsdale, Val has found her independence for the very first time. At a time of life when people sometimes feel that their options are diminishing, Val is thriving. She has become a member of the Opal Bairnsdale Residents Committee where she advocates for her fellow residents and welcomes new residents into the home. Even though spatial distancing means she needs to stay 1.5 meters apart from her new friends, Val has found a new lease on life!

Find out more about Opal Aged Care.