My move to Ireland
The drive to the Airport is less than an hour. The airport serves my home city of Bacolod, in Negros Philippines which has a population of 600 thousand people. It is called the city of smiles.
My first cousin drove me to the airport. We have been like brothers for a long time. Big boys don’t cry. I am taking my first ever plane ride to Manilla and then onwards to Dublin Ireland. It may be my first flight but thirty hours of an aeroplane has taught me what I need to know about the flying experience.: ” the captain has flicked a switch which tells everyone to put on their seat belt”.
My cousin hugged me just before security and I was on my way. Big boys, 22, and 24 don’t cry.
Two years previously my grandmother who is now 92 became frail and vulnerable and was requiring much more assistance. I had spent most of my working life in retail but now I realised that I was good at caring for the elderly and furthermore I enjoyed doing so. I enrolled in a course for one year to be a health care assistant. I was also conscious of the fact that countries outside of the Phillippines were recruiting health care assistants. My aunt who is nursing in Ireland helped me pay for the tuition. At the time there were no employment permits for Ireland for workers from outside the European Union.
When I had completed the course my aunt told me that Ireland is now taking health care workers from Philippines and would I like to work in Ireland. That was probably the easiest question I was ever asked. The paperwork and documentation was long and tedious but finally my visa came through and I was on a plane to Ireland.
It was 28 degrees in Dublin. My aunt rang me and asked how I was. I said I was great but finding the weather a bit cold.!!
My two first cousins who live in Ireland collected me from the airport and brought me to Cork. I have one more aunt and one more uncle living and working in Ireland, and an uncle in Sweden, so I have plenty of cousins I can get reacquainted with during my time here.
The staff in the centre were very good to me. They showed me the ropes and encouraged me to put into practice what I had learned caring for my grandmother and what I learned on the course. On day two one resident said I was “useless”, but then toasting bread and buttering all the corners was new to me!. She (the resident has since upgraded my status). I enjoy what I do.
In the Phillippines it is not easy. There is much poverty and unemployment. It is hard to find money for medical care for you or your family. Education is not free and there is no social welfare. We are a proud race and happy to keep trying to improve our lot. That is why so many fullipinos leave to work abroad and send money home.
My grandmother was hands on in my childhood and played an important part in raising me. I love her and respect her with all my heart. I have a wife and four-year-old son. It was hard to leave them behind but I hope they can come here within a year. I missed my sons first day at pre-School but nothing I can do about that. Thank God there is smart phones and we can talk every day. When I was home my routine was work and home. I loved spending time with my wife and son. I am pretty good in the kitchen and have the approval of my aunt for my signature beef stew dish. We Filipinos like our food and especially any fish and are happy when we have a few quids and a few squids.
My aunt and her wonderful husband took me to Roberts Cove to experience the Atlantic Ocean. My aunt bought me a three quarter wet suit just in case. Was it cold. Yes, it was. Was it very cold. Yes, it was. Did I cry. No. Big boys don’t cry.
John Ronquillo – Healthcare Assistant
Hello
My name is Sister Peggy Cronin. I came to JCP Nursing home in November 2021 and I came from Nazareth Nursing home. I was there for 3 weeks prior to my admission here. Nazareth did not have availability for long term care so it was then that I moved to JCP Powdwermill Care Centre. There was a slight change for me coming here as I was always used to having my own single bedroom, I have now settled in here very well in my shared bedroom. I find the staff so warm, welcoming and friendly. All staff are very familiar with my needs. I entered the Convent when I was 19 years old. I celebrated my silver jubilee and my golden jubilee along the road. That was a wonderful family celebration. At the convent we went to mass daily and had spiritual exercises daily. We also did retreats a couple of times a year. I completed my teacher training in my twenties in Careysfort Training College in Blackrock Dublin, this was a 3 year course and I then went on to complete my diploma. I was a teacher in Macroom convent school for many years and Rathpeacon school. I really enjoyed being a teacher. My experience in JCP is that i am very happy. I enjoy the location, scenery and the nature. The staff bring me outdoors for walks when the weather is dry and I enjoy the ongoing activities. I have lots of visitors that come to visit me and I look forward to seeing them. Overall I am extremely happy here in the nursing home.
Sister Peggy Cronin – Resident
July Newsletter 2022
My American friend in Utah has elderly parents living in Canada. When I say elderly I mean my friend is late sixties so her parents are in the nineties. She rang for advise on how to persuade them to downsize or to move to some form of assisted living. I smiled down the phone to America. I asked her what was the response of her parents to her proposal. They said they were fine as they were. Her father went a little further. He said he had paid for funerals and burial for both him and his wife so his daughter could stop worrying. My friend sought my take on the situation and her worries about her parents who were old and frail.
I said the first thing to acknowledge is that what you related to me was a success story. Her parents managed to raise a family, grow old together, stay together and had done this all their lives. Sure downsizing might be a great idea but perhaps they see memories in every corner and now the vacuum cleaner is quieter than it has been for years.
Life is a journey and not a destination. What has helped them I have no doubt is their collective minding each other. My experience in elderly care is that most people only come to the assisted living or nursing home care when all other avenues have been exhausted.
My own mother was no different. When my father died at 69 from cancer the neighbours offered to drive my mother where she needed to go. So at 68, she bought an automatic Nissan Micra, taught herself to drive again and then proceeded to give the neighbours lifts in rural Glen of Aherlow.
My mother who had rheumatoid arthritis since she was 48 lived on her own for the next ten years. By that stage her mobility had declined and she could move adequately or safely. The home help said to me that “your mother has to be in a nursing home’. Your sisters will not say it to your mother. My sisters were not totally lacking in courage
My mother always said to shoot her if she ever needed a nursing home.
My older brother rang me and said he would deliver my mother, if I would look after her in Powdermill. I said yes.
Six weeks later in March I took my mother to Tipperary in a wheel chair minibus to visit her house. It was 10.30 am. I turned the heating on. My mother asked me to make tea.
There was no sound beyond the sounds of tea making. A spider was climbing up the wall looking for a meal. The clock ticked. Neither of us spoke for a long time. Finally, she asked me if I thought she could still look after herself on her own. I said I did not think she could. She sipped her tea. Then she announced that she was returning to Powdermill and the next phase of her journey was about to begin with her blessing. There was no need to shoot my mother after all which I must say was a relief to all concerned.
Joseph Peters- General Manager
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the residents, staff and all the relatives for the support and cooperation during the outbreak in the Centre. It was challenging and hard for everyone to experience covid in the Centre for the first time since the pandemic. After all the effort, trainings, and diligence of everyone to prevent the virus in entering the Centre the glass has been broken, not because we were complaisant and incompetent.Unfortunately, the hospital discharged a patient to us that is positive with covid and not realizing that the result of the swab they took has not been out yet and was not communicated to us in a timely manner.
Thankfully, this mistake of the hospital did not cause any serious condition or death to any of our residents. Two of our residents contacted the virus had slight symptoms and recovered. The situation could have been different and worse.
The Centres Preparedness plan was activated straight away and implemented to prevent the virus in spreading to all residents. Yes, we were able to contain it and no other resident contacted the virus.There is always a learning outcome in every situation. And this experience has taught us a lot. May this outbreak be the first and last in our Centre. So, from now on, we will be extra careful considering the numbers of covid positive in our community and be proactive in facing this situation. Continue to follow the guidelines and policy of the Centre. Use the face mask. Use the hand gel provided and do not come to the centre if you have symptoms of the virus.
Let us enjoy the rest of the summer days and spend quality time with our loved ones. Come and visit them. Have a walk in the park. Have tea or coffee in the garden. I am sure the residents will be happy to see your smiling faces.
Joy Berey- Director of Nursing
Home Sweet Home
Year 2006, when I first came in Ireland. It was January, winter time and it was freezing cold, a very big difference from the country where I came from…the Philippines.
I met people from various walks of life, of different nationalities, a mixture of culture. What I noticed initially was the warm welcoming nature of the Irish people I first met and which is proven to be true to this day. I was fortunate enough to have landed a job several months after coming here…in Powdermills Nursing Home. Initially I worked as a carer for almost a month, then as a cleaner in the morning and as a kitchen porter in the afternoon. I have worked also with the maintenance man of the nursing home once a week on twilight time. For five years, that was my work routines. Then I left Powdermills for a change.After a year, I came back to Powdermills with a different company name…JCP Powdermill Care Centre Limited. This time I work only in the kitchen as a kitchen porter from 09:30hrs-19:30hrs. I have noticed a big change since I came back. Cleanliness and orderliness of the surroundings, corridors and especially the toilets have significantly improved and being maintained, nurses, health care assistants, cleaners and other allied services working as a team with smile in their faces, exchanging jokes, pleasantries, etc. while ensuring that residents are in good form being given the best quality of care, fed on time and checking that everyone of them are served the right meal as per their request.
In the kitchen, the chefs with the kitchen porters work as a team. Sometimes there would be some arguments, however it is easily managed and sorted out. Most of the times the kitchen is very busy and may require more attention… this is nothing. What’s important is that everyone is happy just like a family.
Part of my journey in Powdermills Nursing Home include unforgettable memories outside of work environment, activities that involved going out with the company bosses and members of the staff for a night out and day outings as well where we have some fun, enjoyed leisure games like bowling, etc. These activities provided opportunities for both the bosses and company workers bonding moments that helped improved rapport among the staff. Seeing everyone having fun helped lift one’s spirit, removes stress thus contributing to good mental health. These things then help develop good attitude towards everyone, towards work and to the company itself.
One particular occasion I can’t forget was when Boss Joe invited me and my wife to attend a night event in a Dublin Hotel together with our Director of Nursing now, Joy and one of our male nurse then (Paul V.) It was a momentous night attended by many Irish and Filipinos. It was a big party, music-filled, food and drinks enjoyed by the attendees. The event was particularly made special by having David Pomeranz, who happens to be one of my favourite singer providing the musical entertainment, a solo concert by him.
Before the party concluded we had the opportunity to have pictures taken with David Pomeranz. What an amazing night!!!
This is all for now. It’s me Eddie Pantua. I hope you enjoyed my short story. Thank you.
Eddie Pantua – Kitchen Porter
I am Marivil B. Binaday,
I worked for over 9 years in profession, had a great experience in Nursing and Carewoker both Local (Philippines) and in abroad (Israel, and Malta). I started my career in Local Government unit of Malilipot, Albay Philippines as (Staff Nurse) for a year, and employed in a private dental clinic as an Assistant Nurse. As an aggressive individual I pursue to serve in a foreign country as a caregiver in Israel for 5 years and 2 months. Given a chance to continue my career in Malta, I was employed in Caremalta as a Home Care Worker for 1 year. I was encouraged by my niece to apply in Ireland to settle in this beautiful country and kind people. I am happy and proud to belong in Powdermill Care homes, my family brought the determination to the serve people with compassion, respect, and care. I am a simple person with always putting smiles on my face showing our client a hope, love, and trust. I am always starting my day with prayers for thanks giving, that’s all. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing at De Ocampo Medical College of Manila, and also granted a National Certificate II in Caregiver under Tesda (Technical Education and Skills Development recognized in Malta Qualification Recognition Information Centre.)
Marivil Binaday –HCA
June Newsletter
Inflation is not a word we often use in our daily vocabulary. It might be the second or third word every time fellow Corkonian Eddie Hobbs uses as he outlines again his vision for the future financial wellbeing of this small nation. The Central Statistics Office record such data and the inflation rate for 2021 came in at just over ten percent.
Some items are glaringly obvious such as the fuel prices as they are posted up for all to see. The landmark of two euro per litre has been broken. All industries using gas or oil have increased their prices to combat their own increase of costs. Then, why am I telling you what you already know.? Good question.
Nursing homes are generally viewed by the media as a source of negative stories. The fees charged by Nursing Homes do appear on the face of it to be exorbitant. Today I want to explain those fees and how they are now severely impacted by the current inflation rates.
There are around 24000 people supported in nursing homes nationally by the Fair Deal system. This system introduced by government is a scheme whereby individuals are both medically and financially assessed for access to nursing home care. The scheme allows for residents to retain 20 percent of their income and also puts a financial value on their property or savings and investments. This valuation appears to me to be fair, realistic and workable. A resident then has the option of choosing a nursing home of their choice anywhere in their locality or in Ireland for that matter.
That is fair deal as it applies to our residents. What then is the process for nursing homes?
National Treatment Purchase Fund, or NTPF for short determine prices that are charged in each nursing home. Their budget is around 900 million annually. An agreement is made with the nursing home and is recorded in a deed which lasts typically from one to three years. In theory it is a negotiation, but the reality is much simpler. N.T.P.F. requires each nursing home to submit their annual accounts, then a meeting is organised. You tell them all the cost increases and pressures and they usually offer a small incremental increase of between two to three per cent. As inflation is now running over ten percent, these increases do not reflect the environment in which we now work and operate.
Our current charges are €985 per week plus €20 per week to cover activities, newspapers etc.
Additional costs such a hairdressing, chiropody, certain medicines not covered by the G.M.S. scheme are not included in the above.
The average cost nationally for private nursing home care is? €1047.00
The average cost for public nursing home care is €1674.00
As a forty-bed facility we have 55 staff. That is the big cost. At least 60 percent of turnover is spent on wages. That then leaves you 40 percent. If you allow ten per cent profit margin, you then have 30 percent of turnover for all the costs associated with your centre.
Food, Heat and light, insurance, medical equipment, staff training and recruitment, clean linen and laundry facilities, repairs and maintenance, telephone and computer systems (epic, sage, big red book), bank interests, charges and corporation tax.
Because margins are tighter now we have seen small nursing homes come under increased pressure financially. From an economics point of view larger nursing homes have an advantage of scale. Even today the major banks do not like to entertain any proposals that are under 60 bed capacity.
Without sounding alarmist, you will continue to see larger nursing homes and larger group ownership often backed by European pension funds. Smaller homes will continue to decline as the economic model will become less sustainable in the future. However smaller nursing homes are now fighting for funding that matches with inflation. We are fighting for fairness and value for money from the State. We do not intend now or ever to lower our standards of care which we deliver to our residents.
Joseph Peters- General Manager
Hello everyone, I am back! I was away for two weeks visiting my 93-year-old mother in Philippines. Nearly three years that I have not seen her due to the pandemic and restrictions that made travelling to my native country difficult and impossible. My travel was not a holiday per se, but to look after my fragile mother in the hospital due to sepsis caused by several pressure ulcers that developed on her sacral area and both heels. It was very bad. The carer and my sister tried their level best to provide the care but due to lack of training, experience and resources pressure ulcers developed and caused the infection.
You will ask, what is pressure ulcer? how do they develop pressure ulcer? Can you prevent it? Can you cure it? Can my mom or dad get pressure ulcer? How serious an issue is this.?
Pressure ulcer is defined as damage to an area of the skin caused by constant pressure on the area for a long time. This pressure can lessen blood flow to the affected area, which may lead to tissue damage and tissue death. Developing pressure ulcer can be quick depending on number of things which put you at risk such as being unable to move around easily due to old age or illness, weight loss – you may have less padding over bony areas, sliding down in a bed or chair – pressure on the skin cuts off blood supply because the skin is being pulled in different directions (called shearing), friction or rubbing of the skin, for example against sheets, a poor diet, lack of fluid (dehydration), moist skin – for example, due to sweating or incontinence, other medical conditions, such as diabetes or having a previous pressure ulcer. Can we prevent it? Yes, it is much better to prevent pressure ulcers than to treat them. Knowledge and training play a great role in preventing pressure ulcer. Our nursing staff in the Centre assess the risk of developing pressure ulcers s and create a plan to prevent them for a resident that is more prone to developing the pressure ulcer. A pressure relieving mattress is often the first line of defence in preventing the development of a pressure ulcer. Good nutrition is also of the utmost importance in preventing the development of an ulcer.
Prevention plans are communicated to the health team during handovers and in the care plans in our Epic Care system which is updated every four months or when it is necessary. Can it be cured? Yes, it can be healed but there is a risk that the wound can get infected in which the infection can travel to their blood streams that is called sepsis. This can be a serious problem and can be life threatening if not dealt with. It is very important to treat infections quickly. Our nursing staff are knowledgeable in wound care, and we also have access to the allied Tissue viability nurse which can assist the nursing staff on the proper management of the wound. At present no resident in the Centre has pressure ulcer.
With the help of resources and equipment’s such as pressure relieving mattress, nutritional supplements and proper wound dressings, IV antibiotics, 2-3 hourly turning and modified specific nutrition via the nasal gastric tube my mother pulled through from the infection and on the road to recovery at home with my sister.
You see Gerontology care does not just focus on one or several managements of care whether you are in Philippines or Ireland. It is a holistic approach of care for the elderly. It is complex and sometimes can be challenging. You are dealing with their cognitive decline, managing their behaviours that can be challenging, their mobility and risk of fall, their specific diet which can be modified if they have swallowing problems, the incontinence and skin integrity, the activity of daily living, their social care plans and a lot of other care that is specific and tailored for their individual needs.
As the Director of Nursing of Powdermill I am happy and pleased to say that we have invested in training for our staff in providing a person centered care and aiming for the highest standard of care.
I would like also to appreciate the cooperation and participation of everyone for continuing to adhere the Covid policy of the Centre. We are covid free since the pandemic and it may continue. Don’t be complacent but be VIGILANT. Our infection and prevention policy and practice has worked that is why we have prevented the virus to get into the Centre. Continue to ring, email, or communicate with the centre before coming to the centre. Do not come if you have any symptoms or been exposed to somebody who has it. Allow the nurse to take your temperature, use the mask and use the alcohol hand rub provided before entering the Centre.
The residents, staff, you and visitors have been champions in preventing covid in the centre and we all deserve a pat in the back. Well done ye all!
Joy Berey- Director of Nursing
We would like to say a huge congratulations to our Senior Healthcare Assistant Sanita O for her recent engagement. We would like to wish her the very best of luck for this beautiful chapter in her life. Cheers!!!
Employee of the quarter this month was given to Charlotte Larsen in our household department. We would like to thank Charlotte for her great work and compassion towards all our residents. Well done, Charlotte
We also added a quarterly raffle for staff. This month the winners of our raffle were Dinil Kumar Staff Nurse who received a voucher. Caroline O Flynn in household who received a cash prize and York Ylosorio Healthcare Assistant who received a bottle of wine. We will continue this raffle quarterly. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all staff for doing a fantastic job. Well done all!!!
May Newsletter 2022
It has been delightful to see that we are slowly and safely getting close to normality, with Covid-19 still around us. We have seen our residents having a lovely time with their families and friends, enjoying their walks and chats. This has been very helpful for our residents to feel good and having more pleasant disposition. In line with this, we are still encouraging families and relatives to visit the nursing home. We are acknowledging all of you who has been very supportive and compliant with the infection control policies we have in place to keep our residents and centre Covid-19 free. We do still encourage families and friends to give us a heads up when you are visiting the centre through calls, text, or email. We are still encouraging compliance of our visitors to temperature checks, wearing of mask and hand rub during visitations. All the staff of the centre are still having their fortnightly swabbing and continue wearing their masks when inside the centre. We greatly appreciate the effort of everyone in keeping the centre Covid-19 free.
Summer is the best time of the year for us to have some fun and enjoy the lovely weather. Now that the weather getting better and sunnier, residents enjoy their quick walks in the garden and the regional park.
We have been coordinating with our Activities Manager, Carol of our summer plans. It is a great time for us as well to acknowledge the efforts of Carol in planning and facilitating our activities. Our residents adore her for her pleasant personality and lovely smiles. It has been discussed during our manager’s meeting that we will have a barbeque party in the garden in front of the centre on the 4th of June. Weather permitting, we welcome the presence of families to join us on this fun day. Carol has been coordinating as well with Chef Mario in planning a lovely meal for all of us. We can’t wait to enjoy the food, music, and activities on that day. We also plan to bring the residents for a day trip to Gougane Barra. This has been discussed and we have been organizing and facilitating the same. We will send out an update when we have things sorted. Our residents are fully aware of the same as it was discussed to them during our resident’s meeting last month. We are all excited and looking forward to the summer activities
Irish Gumadlas- Senior Staff Nurse
Finances.
The financial aspect of nursing home care is an onerous task which often falls to a family member. Initially it most likely involved gathering all the details for fair deal, bank statements and all other financial information. Having this sorted is an achievement that you can be proud of.
You will also be aware that there are some items that are not covered by fair deal. These include chiropody, some pharmacy items, activities newspapers etc. We could not express enough praise on the family member who pays these charges as part of their role in looking after the Finances of the resident.
We know that Fair Deal allows residents to keep 20 percent of their income which in the majority of cases is their pension. This is used to pay the monthly charges not included in Fair Deal. The remainder is used for personal items such as hairdressing, clothes or whatever the resident might need.
We have set up a system called Cash Advance in the nursing home to assist residents to have access to money at all times. The nurse on duty has access to funds which she can give to a resident on request. This saves a resident having to have cash in their wallet for any emergency. The nurse who dispenses the cash keeps a record of the transaction and it is due to be repaid at the end of the month.
We encourage residents not to keep cash in their wallet or rooms. Also, items of jewellery that may be valuable should be kept in our safe.
Residents can have a small safe in their room if they wish and manage it themselves. Our goal is that residents know they can buy those small items for themselves even if it is a cup of hot chocolate in the local coffee shop or a bar of Aero chocolate for a quiet nibble.
Jennifer Kennedy- Operations Manager
We would like to inform you all that we are having an outdoor BBQ for the residents/relative’s weather permitting on Saturday the 4th of June. We will have a variety of food available sausages, chicken, burgers, side salads and beverages. Deserts and ice creams will also be provided. We will be enjoying a day in the garden with live karaoke with myself acting ‘mad’ as per usual. Residents thoroughly enjoy the craic that we have. Please god weather will be fine and BBQ can permit outside. We look forward to seeing you all on the day.
Carol Buckley – Activity Co- Ordinator
It is amazing how quickly we forget the last two years as we start returning to normal. Remember when we had no vaccine and we all hoped that it would be developed. There were names like Astra Zeneca and Pfizer and Johnson and Johnson to name a few of the front runners. When the vaccine became available nursing home residents were prioritised and it was rolled out to them at the very beginning. All but one of our residents availed of the vaccine (this lady had been vaccinated years ago!) Knowing that the vaccine would not prevent one from getting Covid but would minimise the symptoms and in most cases avoid the need for hospitalisation was a relief that is hard to describe. Residents knew from the start that they were more vulnerable to Covid 19 than the rest of the population.
Today some precautions continue and with good reason. All staff continue to wear masks at work, and self-isolate if they have symptoms. We still have testing for Covid every two weeks for staff where we get a probe pushed up our nose and tickle our brain to get a sample. Temperature checks are completed daily for all staff, visitors, and residents. A high temperature is the bodies first defence mechanism against this “China Flu”!.
Yesterday a resident called me over and thanked me for all my work in the garden. I was chuffed. Isn’t it wonderful that at fifty years of age a compliment can mean so much. Kind words do make a difference and that is a reminder for all of us. The book of Proverbs in the bible says ” a soft word turned away wrath but grievous words stir up anger”.
Of course, my right hand man is our residents Eugene who is the lawn expert. We often have long discussions over the height of the grass after before cutting and after cutting. Osarobo just loves to get the Strimmer out. Elbert does all things mechanical and electrical. Maybe one day we will be featured in the Chelsea flower show.
Joseph Peters- General Manager
On the 5th of March 1982 I was cycling home, I was 15 years old and my parents had just passed me. They were moving my brother back to a mobile home while they were waiting for their house to be built. My parents went down to my home place and the guards were there to tell them that I had been in a very bad accident. When my parents got to the house they were told to rush straight in to the CUH. When my parents arrived they were terrified and had to wait in the waiting room. My parents then got the news that a car had hit me while I was cycling and knocked me off my bike. I suffered extensive injuries. I was paralysed on the right side of my body. That meant I had to learn to walk, talk and eat all over again. It was a very long road ahead for me and my family. I remained in hospital for 4 months. I had physio, speech therapy and occupational therapy for a very long time. Thankfully with the help of all of my family it helped with my recovery and I got on with my life. I am very grateful for all of my families support and love. Without my family I would be lost.
Dolores McNamara – Resident
April 2022
In the last six months we have asked staff to put forward suggestions for a shorter mission statement that encapsulates our beliefs and vision of the care we provide to our residents.
We had a limited response so recently we decided to ask again this time asking staff to keep it shorter. When I reviewed the suggestions two suggestions immediately impressed me and as I was debating the merits of both I decided why not incorporate both messages into one mission statement. When we met for the annual review of 2021 my colleagues were in full agreement with the following Mission Statement.
To recognise, inspire and empower the caregiver in all of us as we strive to create a happy home for our residents.
Looking for the care giver in each of us is an inspiring challenge and opportunity. All staff have a role to play, and can make a difference by a small act or acts of kindness to a resident that enhances their day. As the Summer approaches we are looking forward to residents being outside and being able to go for short walks in the Regional Park or just sit outside in the garden. We want the
The mission statement focuses on creating a peaceful and happy environment for residents as they enjoy their retirement
Joseph Peters- General Manager
Director of Nursing
Let me start my article this month to welcome all relatives and friends of the residents to the Centre. It is great to see all of you coming to see the residents and spending time with them after the long restrictions and fear of Covid 19. Yes, Covid 19 is going to be with us for a long time and we have to treat it almost as a flu. We can help in minimizing the transmission of the infection by following national guidelines and continuing to adhere with the infection control policy of the Centre. Thank you for continuing to phone and schedule your visits, having your temperature checks, alcohol hand rub before entering the Centre and wearing the mask during visitation. Precaution is always better than cure and I believe all of us agree with that. It helped prevent Covid in entering our Centre during the height of the pandemic and that is why we can say that we are one of the few Centres that did not get an outbreak. As what of one of our residents said Thanks Be to God!
The second booster for the residents is scheduled for the 27th April 2022. We shall hope that this will be beneficial to the residents to prevent hospitalization or death in the event of an outbreak in the Centre and recovery on a higher percentage.
I would like to inform you that we are continuing the quarterly meeting of the next of kin/relatives to give an update on the status or condition of your loved ones. It is important that communication is established between us and you. We aim to provide the highest care and person-centered care to them. Sometimes expectations versus reality are not discussed during admission and this can lead to expectations of families not met or impossible to meet. For example, Fall. It can happen to anyone, at anytime and anywhere. You can fall. I can fall. A resident can fall. Assessment is the key and second minimize the risk of the fall. Once this is identified individual care planning in preventing falls will be formulated. Some equipment such as a laser alarm is use in minimising falls but will not eliminate the fall. Through this meeting this will give you insights about the present condition and care planning of your loved ones. We always welcome feedback and we know your contribution is critically important to the overall success of the care planning for each resident.
Recently I appointed Aileen Genodifa as my clinical nurse manager. Aileen has been with us five years and is a committed professional at all times. I look forward to working closely with her as she leads the senior nurses and staff nurses in delivering the highest standards of clinical care to each and every resident.
Our garden in front of the Centre is welcoming all of you to enjoy it with the residents. You can sit on the benches with your loved ones and enjoy the sunny weather or a nice slow walk going to the park. It is nice to see residents with their families spending time together and enjoying nature too. Recently the maintenance staff have been upgrading the facilities at the rear of the building which includes the vegetable and herb garden, remembrance garden, extra seating and the green house. It will be completed shortly and residents will be encouraged to use the facilities which are bounding the Regional Park.
Joy Berey – Director of Nursing
Activities are a very important part of our residents’ lives and are we are always trying new things to engage our residents in something that interests them. We recently had a resident meeting and we asked them if they had any suggestions and a trip to Gougane Bara was top of the list. We’re hoping the trip will take place at the start of June, we’ll pack a picnic and hope for some nice weather.
We are lucky enough to have the Regional Park on our doorstep and we would encourage you to take your relative for a walk in the park when the weather permits. Getting out for a short period of time can lift the spirits of our residents and put a smile back on their face. Our weekly bingo and quiz are something both residents and staff look forward to and we continue to introduce new activities that might interest them. We welcome any suggestions you might have to enhance the social lives of your loved ones.
Jennifer Kennedy- Operations Manager
Clinical Nurse Manager Interview.
Question: How do you feel about your appointment?
Aileen: I am delighted to accept this role and to be able to lead the staff nurses in clinical care. It is great to have five years’ experience in the care of the elderly at the Powdermill and to be able to share this knowledge with all nurses on my team.
Question: What are you passionate about in your nursing?
Aileen: I like to speak with the residents and listen to them. As I listen I know how we nurses can best create a personal plan of care that is unique to each resident. When I see the residents smiling or happy, I know that we are doing our job.
Question: What do you hope to achieve in 2022?
Aileen: I want to be sure that we are meeting the standards as laid down by Health Information and Quality Authority in their 2016 standards booklet. I also want to remind the nursing team to listen to residents and make quality time for each resident.
Question: What do you enjoy about conversations with residents?
Aileen: When they share stories about their lives and their personal experiences I feel they trust me and know that I can keep their confidence. In most cases they are happy stories but sometimes they are sad and maybe tragic. It is nice to be part of their world and know what it means to each resident.
Question: What do you miss about your home country, Phillippines.
Aileen: My family of course. My parents are celebrating over 60 years of marriage when I return in May. My father is 89 years old and has his birthday as well. They still fuss over me and yet I fuss over them. I am glad they survived Covid 19. I miss the Fillipino food, what we cook at home and also the street food. At night you can buy most types of food on the street including Ballot which is a cooked duck egg and very popular.
Question: How did Covid 19 affect you?
Aileen: I was not worried for myself but I was worried about all the residents here and my elderly parents. I was relieved that we have such a strong leader as director of nursing who lead us for two years. Joy ensured we followed the guideline from the H.S.E. in preventing an outbreak of the virus. We said our prayers and so did the residents and we have had no outbreak so far. I was in regular contact with my parents and knew they were fine but I still worried. Now after two and a half years I am going home to visit and celebrate.
Aileen Genodifa – Clinical Nurse Manager
My name is Nikhil Mathew. I am studying QQI Level 5
Health care support course at B& B nursing. I completed my Bachelor’s degree in hotel management from Mangalore University, India. After that I worked in different hotels in India. I worked as a counter staff in Allen Electrical Services, United Arab Emirates. I came to Ireland in 2019.After that I worked as a catering assistant in Ballincollig community nursing unit and Noel Group.
I started working in JCP Powdermill Care Centre on 10 the March 2022 as a healthcare assistant. I am working in two different units called The Millrace and The Cooperage. I am so happy to work as a healthcare assistant here because it is a great learning experience for me. I am working under supervision of a senior healthcare care assistant at all the time. I am getting practical experience in different modules like infection control, Care skills and care support every day. Thank you.
Nikhil Mathew – Healthcare Assistant
March Newsletter 2022
Last week one of our residents passed away. I wished I could have intervened and asked God to extend her life for those days. I wanted this lady to get a cheque from the president, but more importantly, the acknowledgement. And then as I thought about it, I was viewing it solely from my perspective. She would have been our first resident to reach that milestone but milestones are nice what is more valuable is her legacy, the memories and the feeling of admiration.
This lady did not say much. She said very little. She had an illness called dementia but that should not or will not be her legacy. She had spirit, energy, soul, call it what you want but it connected with people. The last time I was in her room a few weeks ago I asked her how things were on Bere Island. She usually makes a sound that indicates that all is well on the island.
As far as I am concerned she made the 100. What was amazing is that she continued to build relationships long after being able to use words. A wise man once said to me as we were discussing wise sayings: ” never pass up an opportunity to say nothing.”
I walked into the office to hear the girls talking about Mary, one said she was a wonderful woman who reminded her of her own Nana, while the other said she needed no words and still made such an impact on everyone, She will be greatly missed here at the Powdermill.
I asked one of our carers what made her special. Interview with Margaret:
I spoke to Margaret O Driscoll who is our senior carer and who has been with us a long time. When I asked her about Mary the first thing I noticed was that Margaret started to smile and spoke lovingly about Mary. When Mary was here first she made great friends with Mary O Shea who was also a resident. They often held hands and had great chats. Mary enjoyed saying the Rosary, especially the Hail Mary.
Margaret said she was feisty, and knew what she wanted. She had spirit. To engage conversation Margaret would ask her if they would go to Bere Island her homeland. Mary would think for a moment and then reply maybe tomorrow.
Two of our admin staff said she was “lovely”. Again, I was curious as this lady had not spoken, or perhaps said only a word. Again, I asked what made her special.
Mary was with us for 7 years, 7 months and was 7 weeks away from her 100th Birthday. As far as we are concerned we are happy to say she made the 100, a centenarian and we will be glad to celebrate her birthday on the 7th May.
Lastly her family were a great example of respect and care and love for their mother. Rose often offered me a bit of chocolate as she saw me working hard in the garden. Memories of Mary, her family and all our residents live long in our hearts. Ar Dheis De, go raibh a ainm.
Joseph Peters- General Manager
Hi All,
My name is Emer Callanan and I came to the Powdermill Nursing home just over 2 months ago for respite care. I was made feel incredibly welcome from the moment I arrived by all of the staff and residents. I have grown very fond of the residents and have built some loving friendships. I am very happy with the service provided and I thoroughly enjoy all the food on offer. I would like to thank all of the staff for their personal input and the care provided to me daily. I am very happy here and I do not want to go home.
Emer Callanan – Resident
I would like to thank you very much through the newsletter magazine of Powdermill Nursing Home, which is published every month. Thank you for the financial contribution to support the people of Ukraine. A sum of 170euros from the employees and some residents of Nursing home and the management of nursing home contributed 100 euro.
A total of 270euros was sent through the Irish Red Cross as a donor to the crisis in Ukraine. Ukraine people now mainly need financial support as well as the support of all the people who are against the war and want to survive. As an eight-year-old girl, I still remember the Russian occupation, Russian tanks and soldiers terrifying me.
We are all looking at the development of the situation between Ukraine and Russia. The brave Ukrainian people are trying to defend the invasion, where soldiers and civilians will die. Among them are children and also old defenceless people.
As employees of the Nursing home, we can imagine that old people can suffer, regardless of their age, illnesses, but especially the lives of their loved ones… children, grandchildren. Russian bombs have no mercy.
Thank you very much everyone
Sarka Benova Health Care Assistant
Greetings, my name is Kryzia Pablo, I’m 20 years old, from the Philippines, Ireland has been my home for the last 16 years, I’ve worked various jobs and have experienced managerial experience in the hospitality field however Health care has always trickled in the back of my mind, so I decided to bite the bullet May 2021. Almost a year later I am currently on my last semester of college, excited to be a Health Service Skills graduate. Last year for my work placement, (from the end of October to December) I was fortunate enough that Powder Mills accepted me to do my practice in their facility, I was welcomed with open arms which made me a lot more eager to work harder and get concrete experience during the period of my stay.
However, 2 months later I found myself fully imbursed into their daily routines, the thought of leaving was difficult, I approached management about a job vacancy and luckily there was a spot available, I was able to start my official employment here at JCP Powdermills Nursing Home January 2022. I am immensely grateful for the continuous experience and lessons here.
As mentioned earlier, Ireland has been my primary home for the last 16 years, this is where I grew up, went to school, made friends and essentially now starting my career. Visiting home wasn’t necessarily “cheap” so going home was irregular, however when we did go home, we would usually stay for a month which was always exciting because it meant I would get to spend time with my grandparents. Although I have been fortunate enough to have had a healthy life provided by my parents, growing up without immediate family and being without my grandparents somewhat felt isolating. My grandparents passed away 4 years ago, however starting this new venture in healthcare makes me feel like they’re beside me all the time, cheering me on. I feel their presence strongly when I spend time with the residents. Working at the centre at times can feel draining but I take great pride in the care we provide and how it is a duty of care to now take care of those who provided service and took care of our community once before. This is the true fulfilment of the job.
Kryzia Pablo- Healthcare Assistant