After spending years living independently at home, moving into permanent aged care can be a daunting transition, which for most residents takes time. For some, forming new friendships can be a challenge, particularly for men who are often in the minority in aged care environments. To help meet this need, the men’s group at our Centennial Lodge home in Wantirna South was formed, giving male residents a regular opportunity to connect, share experiences and build meaningful friendships.
Lifestyle Coordinator and Program Manager, Sharese James, who organises the group, says, “When men come into aged care, it’s a whole new world to them that they’re unfamiliar with. It’s really important that we provide a supportive place where they can come together with the other men and discuss issues, concerns, and establish good friendships.”
“I generally find the female residents are more comfortable in social settings because they are from a generation that didn’t work full time, and they had their bowls and bridge clubs. For some of the men, work was the focus of their lives, so when they come to an environment like this, they need some encouragement and support to get involved.”
Sharese and the Lifestyle team at Centennial Lodge organise a range of activities for the group each month, tailoring them to different resident interests. These activities are as simple as having chats in the courtyard, watching a musical DVD together, going on a daytrip or heading to the local hotel for lunch and beers. “I find that if you include a beer or food with the offer, they will come,” laughs Sharese.
The group also includes daily informal catchups over morning tea, hosted by volunteer David, who generously gives his time. “David is a sounding board for them and a listening ear, which is fabulous,” says Sharese.
For residents who don’t have strong support from family and friends, the group is especially meaningful and important. “It gives them someone to talk to, someone to share with, someone to bond with, and the friendly environment the group provides really helps them to feel at home,” says Sharese.
With around a dozen residents now attending regularly, the group has become a real success, fostering new friendships and a warm sense of camaraderie. Sometimes, a little encouragement is all that’s needed.
As Sharese says, “Over the years in my aged care journey, I’ve often observed that the men sit back from the social activities. There are some men here that are quite independent and happy to do their own thing, but others just need a bit of encouragement to get involved.”
