'R U OK?' Day at The Cairns Aged Care Centre
“'R U OK?’ Day is very important because it reminds us that it is okay to voice our concerns, and it encourages us to connect more and seek help and not have to suffer in silence,” says The Cairns Aged Care Centre (“The Cairns”) Manager, Aileen. “Promoting 'R U OK?' Day is also important in helping residents and staff feel that the day is not just one occasion, that they can call on us. It should be an everyday thing.”
'R U OK?' Day is a day that aims to start life-changing conversations by encouraging and empowering Australians to reach out to friends, family and colleagues who may be struggling with life’s difficulties and ask the question, ‘are you okay?’ Each year, The Cairns acknowledges this significant day, and this year is no different, with activities to include a Chapel Service, an interview segment, and a morning tea.
When reflecting on the role of a Centre’s Management team in promoting this day, Aileen notes the importance of helping to foster and drive a culture of wellbeing and support. “This is very crucial in a working environment because, when we have supportive management, it encourages employees to communicate issues that may impact wellbeing and safety.” When it comes to promoting resident wellbeing year-round, Aileen says: “By having regular visits with residents, it lets them know that they are able to raise their concerns,” she says.
Aileen also acknowledges the Centre’s Chaplains in supporting residents. “We have a strong pastoral care and support at the Centre and the Chaplains are very proactive in their visits to provide one-on-one support for residents who may be experiencing low mood,” she says. “An integrated approach between Lifestyle and Chaplains with activities that cater for groups is very helpful to promote socialisation and support amongst residents.”
For the Centre’s Diversional Therapist, Michael Flick, he references the ‘Key2Me’ document which provides a comprehensive understanding of a resident’s life story, personal preferences, and interests. “The first thing is to get to know the residents; that Key2Me document is critical to know what their likes and dislikes are, to try and get a further connection and what’s important to them,” he explains. “It’s just knowing the person and being there and listening to them."
When reflecting on what makes this year’s acknowledgement of ‘'R U OK?' Day’ at the Centre different, Michael notes it’s the Centre-wide approach and the day’s aim to engage all people at the Centre. “This year, we’re doing it beyond just the residents – everyone is a stakeholder; the staff; the Manager; the Chaplains,” he says. “It’s important to continue to build a sense of community and feel more connected to each other.”
