1991

When Administrator Kelvin Dickens returned from his overseas study tour in late 1990, he strongly recommended that Resthaven deliver more community services for elderly people living in their own homes. As a result, Resthaven’s Community Programs Department was established in late 1991, with two staff appointed.

The newly formed department was given the remit of expanding the existing community services offered by Resthaven in the form of Day Therapy Centres and the ‘Hostel Links’ program, working within the six council areas surrounding the Resthaven homes. Over the first six months of its operation the team researched the needs of people in those areas and established a number of small but unique programs.

The Hostel Links program serviced the needs of older people living in self-care units at retirement villages in Murray Bridge. The valuable program offered delivery and service of three meals a day, assistance with showering, dressing and medical needs, and cleaning. By June 1993, the Hostel Links program was operating at Resthaven Murray Bridge, Resthaven Bellevue Heights, and Resthaven Paradise.

Other pilot programs include a four-week information seminar on the Aspects of Ageing with the City of Campbelltown and the production of a video being produced in conjunction with the State Transport Authority promoting the use of public transport for the elderly. Funding for the projects was sought primarily through grants. Due to limited funding, volunteers were a vital part of the service.

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