Latest news with #RandAid
The Citizen
7 days ago
- General
- The Citizen
Inyoni Creek resident's Royal Navy frigate gets custom display cabinet
A beautifully handcrafted display cabinet now stands proudly in the home of Inyoni Creek retirement village resident, Bob Wilmot, protecting one of his most treasured creations – a finely detailed model of a Royal Navy frigate. The cabinet was the result of teamwork and craftsmanship at the George Green Men's Shed, where members Steve Sherwood, Mike Tudhope and Roger Matthews dedicated several months, from February to May this year, to build the elegant unit. ALSO READ: Inyoni Creek residents receive flu shots 'I approached the fellows in the shed earlier this year to suggest that, with their help, a display cabinet could be constructed,' Bob explained. 'The model had no protection from dust, spider webs or possible damage, so I'm thrilled that it finally has a safe home.' Built to an authentic 1:48 scale, Bob's frigate was completed in 2013 after years of meticulous work. Until now, it had sat exposed atop the cabinet housing his first model – the HMS Victory – which took him more than five years to complete in 1988. The new cabinet was recently delivered to Bob's cottage, where he spent several hours cleaning the frigate before placing it inside. 'I'm delighted with the result,' he said. ALSO READ: Inyoni Creek residents receive flu shots Bob joined the George Green Men's Shed in January and is already immersed in his next maritime project – a clipper ship from the 1850s – which he jokes is his way of avoiding too much TV. Established in 2019, the George Green Men's Shed provides Rand Aid residents with a fully equipped 200m² workshop, enabling them to tackle DIY projects, work on community initiatives and share skills in a relaxed, social space – all without worrying about space limitations or disturbing neighbours.
The Citizen
25-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Tennis fever hits Ron Smith Care Centre
Residents and staff at Rand Aid's Ron Smith Care Centre (RSCC) traded their everyday gear for Wimbledon whites. On July 11, the recreation centre was transformed into a scene straight out of the All England Club. Staying true to the Wimbledon tradition, each person received a numbered queuing ticket, just like the ones used to line up for tickets at the real event. These numbers were later entered into a lucky draw, and Josephine Kew and Beryl O'Donnell were delighted to win prizes. ALSO READ: Experienced social worker Ulricka Beukman steps up at Ron Smith Care Centre Residents also learned about Rufus the Hawk, the official pigeon deterrent of Wimbledon, and enjoyed a short video showing him soaring through the stadium each morning to keep the courts bird-free. The morning sparked fond memories and conversations about past Wimbledon matches and legendary tennis players. To top it off, everyone savoured the classic Wimbledon treat: strawberries and cream, while watching iconic moments from past tournaments on the big screen. But the fun didn't end there as residents and staff returned in the afternoon to watch the men's semi-final match between Carlos Alcaraz and Taylor Fritz. The viewing was made even sweeter by delicious shortbread biscuits generously gifted by Pam and Gerald Mills and their daughter, Tracy.
The Citizen
15-06-2025
- General
- The Citizen
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day: Speak up for vulnerable seniors
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day today shines a spotlight on the often-hidden suffering endured by older people. Elder abuse takes many forms – physical, financial, emotional, sexual, psychological and even neglect – and is often perpetrated by those in positions of trust. Ayanda Matthews, a GM at Rand Aid Association, says the day is a powerful reminder of society's duty to defend the dignity, safety and well-being of senior citizens. 'Each year, a large number of older persons are abused, neglected or exploited. Most of these cases go unreported,' says Matthews. 'June 15 is World Elder Abuse Day. Let us all get involved in our communities to help our older persons enjoy their lives with dignity and respect.' With retirement villages and care centres in and around Edenvale, Rand Aid is a long-standing advocate for the elderly. The NPO is proactively working to create safe and fulfilling environments through its new initiative, The Rand Aid Way. Officially launched earlier this year, the campaign promotes a culture of compassion, accountability and respect. 'By fostering strong relationships and empowering residents to be active community participants, The Rand Aid Way creates a culture where abuse is far less likely to go unnoticed or unchallenged,' says Matthews. Be mindful Paulina Namo, nursing services manager at Rand Aid's Thembalami Care Centre and a veteran in elder care, emphasises that abuse can sometimes be unintentional, arising from caregiver stress or a lack of understanding. 'Some people bribe elders for their pension or leave them alone for hours,' says Namo. 'They may not have bad intentions but simply don't know how to support their loved one.' In today's fast-paced world, elders are increasingly isolated as extended family living becomes rare. Respecting elders, Namo says, starts with small, mindful actions – listening, preserving their routines and honouring their cultural preferences. 'If you no longer have a grandparent, adopt one in your community,' she suggests. 'You don't need money to make a difference – just your time and respect.' Watch for these signs Warning signs of elder abuse include: Unexplained injuries, Poor hygiene, Weight loss, Withdrawal, or Frequent tension with caregivers. Matthews urges anyone who suspects abuse to act immediately. 'It is not your role to verify the abuse. Simply report it to your nearest Department of Health and Social Development office, or contact a social worker. If the situation is urgent, call the police or an ambulance. 'Not reporting elder abuse is a criminal offence,' she stresses. 'Do the right thing and speak up.' Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel. Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
10-05-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Thornhill Manor leads the way in early flu vaccination
Thornhill Manor leads the way in early flu vaccination With South Africa's 2025 flu season arriving earlier than expected, retirement communities are ramping up efforts to protect their most vulnerable. At Thornhill Manor, a Rand Aid-run retirement village, over 100 residents signed up for the flu vaccine drive that kicked off in April The initiative, supported by Dis-Chem, saw the pharmacy group assisting with the vaccine order and providing a nurse to help the village's own, Sister Joanne Bosman, with administering the vaccines. ALSO READ: Why immunisation is vital for your child 'Flu vaccines are crucial for the elderly to reduce the risk of serious flu complications, hospitalisations and death, especially as their immune systems weaken with age,' said Joanne. The vaccination drive was rolled out over several days. Similar drives took place at Rand Aid's sister village, Elphin Lodge, as well as the Ron Smith Care Centre. and Inyoni Creek. According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), South Africa's 2025 flu season began during the week of March 24 – the earliest start since 2010. ALSO READ: Puppy raiser shares her tale with South African Guide Dogs Association Vulnerable populations, including seniors, are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible. As flu viruses evolve annually, health authorities recommend yearly vaccinations and stress that it's never too late to receive protection. 'We are ensuring our residents are safeguarded through proactive measures and accessible primary healthcare,' said Jackie Scott, the village's deputy manager. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
