Raising the bar in retirement living

Murraylands Retirement Village in Murray Bridge, 78km east-southeast of Adelaide, has 83 retirees living in 63 homes in spacious gardens.

When Rowena Fox became a Retirement Village Manager 14 months ago she felt the community centre could be more utilised. Residents kept mentioning “have a happy hour” so she took them up on the offer.

“We went to the pub and bought cartons of beer, and I raided my home for red and white wine. We told the residents spirits were BYO. We attracted 30 residents and it was meant to be from 5pm to 6pm Friday. We had to send them home at 10.30pm” Rowena said.

“The next Friday the last pair home at 9pm.”

The alcohol and drinks were served from a kitchen bench and it was decided to install a bar due to its popularity.

“It is bringing in lots of different residents into the community centre and they are getting to know one another for the first time. Also, it is wonderful for the staff, who often don’t see each other at work,” Rowena said.

The events in the community centre are developing.

“Next week, a travelling musician , a grey nomad, is coming to play some rock ‘n’ roll.  Everyone will be up and dancing, even for the less mobile, there is line dancing.” she said.

The retirement village has now bought a golf cart to help bring residents to and from the community centre.

“It is all about doing something positive for the residents’ lifestyles. Giving them more enjoyment and breaking down those social barriers.”