Claremont Office Candice Vietri
Tel: 021 815 5700 Direct: 021 815 5762 sales@faircape.co.za
Faircape Group 5th Floor, The Terraces, 25 Protea Road, Claremont, 7708 Tel: 021 815 5700
Postal Address Postnet Suite 63, Private Bag X1005 Claremont, 7735
Letter from the CEO
The benefits of getting a pet when you retire Best Luxury Retirement Development in South Africa Life Rights
State-of-the-art Security Entertainment Christmas Celebrations at Faircape Gardening Collecting as a hobby Health Health: Dietitian Occupational Therapy Village Life Villages News: Tokai Estate Village News: Noordhoek Manor Village News: Heritage Manor Village News: Onrus Manor Village News: Bridgewater Manor Village News: Clé du Cap Rosemary Lapping-Sellars Knitting for Good 5 Years At Tokai Estate John Gardener - Robert Gray Award Life After Lockdown History of Bridgewater Manor SPCA and check handover How to connect long distance with grandkids The art of decluttering Out & About Winelands Tastings Retiring in Somerset West Food
Salt Reduction Tips Free Range In the Kitchen with Toni Why Water is Key for Healthy Ageing Games Reader’s Nook
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The last time I had the privilege of writing a piece for our magazine the uncertainty of COVID still hung over us. Life has certainly moved on dramatically since those uncertain times and we are almost back at pre-covid activity levels. I look back at the early days of the COVID pandemic and we owe a large debt of gratitude to all our staff who mostly braved the public transport risks, wore their stifling PPE and carried on with their daily work. They were exposed to the virus, which in the beginning we didn't know too much about, no working from home for them. What would we ever have done without their dedication to duty and responsibility, where they realised that our vulnerable residents would be at risk without them. How can we thank them enough?
The Faircape. group has grown to over 700 employees. We have systematically replaced outsourced services with our own brand-aligned staff and have employed our own managers to manage these new staff. Our latest change has been replacing outsourced gardeners with our own teams of groundsmen reporting to our newly appointed supervisors.
Wherever we have made these changes we have had overwhelmingly positive responses from the village residents. We made similar changes some years ago with our housekeepers and expanded the housekeeping services to the village residents. We have had great reviews and as the housekeepers go through their upgraded skills training we expect to be able to offer increasingly better service to our residents.
We are the only retirement group in South Africa who have a healthcare centre in each village. We have 350 health care rooms across the 6 villages with subacute rehabilitation licenses for 60 of these rooms. Subacute is offered mostly in Tokai with availability to residents of other villages. We are the only healthcare group that makes use of an elaborate state of the art camera network that allows us to monitor risk, safety and staff. We are one of the only (if not the only) healthcare group that employs a structured set of allied and brand-aligned professionals. We have just employed an additional social worker under the management of our group social worker, which brings this professional team
to four. We have an occupational therapist in each village under the management of our group occupational therapist bringing our team complement to seven. In addition, we have a group dietician, We have excellent additional inputs from the doctors/physicians practice, Occupational therapists and Physiotherapists practicebased in Tokai. We have our own Pharmacy managed by two pharmacists and an assistant, and an X-Ray unit including our own state-of-the-art X-ray machine which is managed by our own radiographer under the direction of Morton and Partners. We are achieving 98% of our Tokai health care residents giving us a 5 star rating. This striving for excellence is what pervades our whole health team, whether long or short-term. We attract professionals who are wanting to be part of the Multi Disciplinary Team which is unique to our group. We know that by having the large number different professionals, we can afford to install the best systems and ensure we embrace the best training techniques.
There are a number of additional initiatives that we are currently undertaking to ensure we offer the very best care to our residents so that when you need healthcare or medical help, there will no better place to be than in a Faircape Health facility
Our AGM's have all been completed and all went well. The most difficult part of any AGM in a normal body corporate or association is the management and explanation of the financial aspects. All
of our villages operate on the fixed levy basis where any levy shortfalls and capital infrastructure requirements are met by Faircape/Old Mutual. We have never in our history asked for a special levy, as a significant aspect of our village sales offering is financial stability. It is for this reason that most of the financial aspects of managing the village are delegated to Farcape/Old Mutual in the Body Corporate rules. These aspects together with other day to day management aspects are delegated to Faircape/Old Mutual through one of its subsidiaries so that professional managers can deal with these matters, allowing trustees to get on with matters that affect village life and well-being. We have appointed competent managers to interface with residents and deal with their concerns. We have an escalation procedure to allow for residents who feel that their voices are not heard to escalate their concerns. I am looking forward to meeting with the trustees in the coming weeks to discuss the upcoming year.
All our villages are in demand. In a group of almost 1000 homes, we often have fewer than 10 for sale across all villages We believe that this is as a result of all of us working towards the same goal of making the Faircape Life Villages the best place to be in your post 50 year old life. Thank you to all our staff and residents.
Yours Sincerely,
The benefits of pets are equal parts science and magic. Our Pet Therapy programme within our Healthcare Centres has grown recently, with more and more pets and their owners joining. We’ve been discovering firsthand the powerful effect that therapy dogs can have.
Just one visit a week from a therapy dog can trigger the release of the chemicals responsible for activating happiness, including Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin and Endorphins. These aid in relieving stress, helping to calm anxiety and combat depression.
It’s easy for residents to become discouraged, often due to loss of abilities like hearing, memory or mobility. Therapy dogs are the perfect antidote to low selfesteem as they love unconditionally. Pets are incapable of judgement and unbiased affection is their default setting. It’s no wonder that visits from pets serve as welcome reminders to residents that, no matter what, they are loved and accepted.
Interacting with pets provides entertainment, inspires humour and helps residents concentrate on the present. It’s not unusual for residents in long-term facilities to dwell too much on themselves, often because of loneliness or pain. A visit from a pet can provide a welcome distraction and a new topic of conversation.
In our opinion, the most wonderful therapeutic benefit is the stimulation of long-term memories. Residents are enjoying being reminded of the past and the pets from their past that are gone but never forgotten.
We all love our pets and we do not really think about preparing our wills to look after our pets, should we pass on. There are ways that one can prepare for this unfortunate event and there are law firms that can assist in drawing up this aspect of your will.
Even though we view our four-legged friends as family members, in the eyes of the law they are viewed as our property.
Dog owners must prepare a detailed will and testament to specify what will happen to their pets if they should pass away suddenly. Will your dogs be transferred to another person’s name or will your heir inherit all your dogs too?
· Testamentary Trust – Should you have a trust set up, you would be able to transfer ownership of the pets to the trust. Money is aside to take care of the pets with instructions on specific care for the pets (Kennel Union of South Africa, 2016).
· Inter-vivos Trust – According to the Kennel Union of South Africa, a curator would be appointed should the owner become unable to care for the pets due to serious injury, illness or advanced age.
· Will Provision – A person can be left money and assets on the grounds they take care of your pets. Pets cannot be left money or property as they can not enforce their rights.
· Informal arrangement – A less complicated arrangement and at no cost, this agreement places a trusted family member or friend as caretaker to your pets, although it gives you no control over how your pets will be cared for after you have gone.
· Other things to consider – The Kennel Union of South Africa recommends carrying information on your person stating who will take care of your pets should you pass and you live alone.
Estate planning is nobody’s favourite pastime, but it’s vitally important to your dogs’ health and well-being.
Your furry friends love you unconditionally so let's not leave them scared and alone. Let's look after them even after we depart.
The Luxury Lifestyle Awards for 2021 have been finalised, and we’re very proud to announce that Tokai Estate has been awarded top laurels once again. This is the second year running that Tokai Estate has been recognised for this prestigious honour.
The Luxury Lifestyle Awards (LLA) Committee has strict selection criteria. For best luxury retirement development, the criteria are varied and account for factors in 10 different categories. Tokai Estate was found to be outstanding in all of the following categories:
The LLA Committee assesses for a history of satisfied residents and families.
Tokai Estate has achieved a reputation as the most luxurious and rewarding of all retirement villages in the Western Cape, and with good reason. The village provides a wide array of top-class amenities, services, and quality in all aspects. This proven history has led to the name ‘Tokai Estate’ becoming synonymous with excellence in every regard.
Candidates are reviewed for their track record of quality service provision and the trustworthiness of the organisation as represented in licensing, accreditation, and awards.
Tokai Estate is proudly offered in partnership with Old Mutual, a licensed financial services provider. This partnership brings together the expertise from a diverse group of professionals and helps to ensure that service excellence is consistently achieved.
The ability of the retirement development to adapt to the specific needs of the resident are considered.
Faircape Life is considerate of the changing demands of retirees and especially the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on residents. Tokai Estate adapted to the needs of their residents during this time in many ways including offering restaurant quality home catering for private functions. In addition the Healthcare Centre multidisciplinary team has been expanded with additional doctors, social workers, physiotherapists and occupational therapists to ensure residents have the care they need on their doorstep.
The situation of the development is assessed for its proximity to services such as hospitals, and amenities like shopping centres, as well as beautiful scenery
The village achieves top honours in this category. With breathtaking views of the Constantiaberg Mountains, Silvermine Nature Reserve and Table Mountain –Tokai Estate is perfectly positioned for a rewarding lifestyle. Wine estates, golf courses, shopping malls, and more are all within easy reach.
Nominees are appraised for their commitment to sustainability and minimising any negative impacts on the environment.
In addition to the solar power panels installed at the estate, the landscaped gardens are maintained by a staff horticulturist to ensure that the plants are predominantly indigenous and can support local bird and bee populations.
The Committee looks at the strength of security measures, and the proactive use of new technologies to ensure safety. They also assess healthcare facilities within this sub-category.
The Faircape Health Tokai Estate facility, with its multidisciplinary team of health professionals, has achieved a 95% 5-Star review rating. The security features of the village are extensive, and designed for convenience. Access control at the boomed entrance includes a 24/7 manned control room, surveillance cameras, and biometric scanners. The entirety of the perimeter wall is also replete with surveillance cameras, and electric fences monitored at all times by trained off-site surveillance professionals.
The quality and ease of access to additional leisure facilities is evaluated in this category.
Tokai Estate features a gymnasium, scenic pathways, heated swimming pool, club house and more. One of the most standout features of the village in this category is the exceptional calibre of the meals and event catering services.
The expertise of the staff are accounted for in this category.
Tokai Estate was found truly exemplary in this field: housekeeping staff, village manager, catering staff as well as the horticulturist are noteworthy. Our village staff are always ready with a smile to lend a helping hand in whatever way they can.
Nominees are assessed for how well the latest innovations are integrated into the village.
Tokai Estate features fibre internet infrastructure installed and maintained by Faircom. This infrastructure delivers extremely reliable, high speed internet connectivity for uninterrupted streaming and staying in touch with family and friends.
The Committee looks for a long history of positive reviews and recommendations from associated industry professionals and residents.
The village has garnered positive feedback and 5-star reviews from residents, family, and guests. What makes these reviews and recommendations truly special is the that fact they’re consistently high across an extended period of time. Achieving excellence over years shows true commitment to providing the best luxury retirement. Our Google Reviews alone speak volumes!
At Faircape Life, we’re committed to delivering excellence in all aspects and this award serves to strengthen our resolve. We’re proud to be recognised for our standards of excellence and we will continue to provide residents with only the best in every aspect of living. We can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Life rights are a growing trend in South Africa and for good reason. A life right is a real right to occupy a specific property for the remainder of the holder’s life. They come with a host of benefits compared to conventional ownership.
Life Rights Holders are Legally Protected
Life rights are regulated in terms of the Housing Development Schemes for Retired Persons Act 65 of 1988. The act is intended to protect the rights of retired people and prevent exploitation.
Unlike conventional ownership, acquiring a life right doesn’t involve any transfer duty or VAT.
Registration is quick and easy because the new life right doesn’t need to be registered at the Deeds Office.
When the life right terminates, the life right holder or the estate is simply refunded in accordance with the life right agreement. The funds are received much more quickly than they would be if the property was owned. No masters consent, heirs consent or deeds office registration is required to give effect to the termination and this helps speed things up considerably.
These are just a few of the benefits of the life right model. Faircape Life has many more unique features for residents to enjoy such as fixed levies that increase only by CPI, the benefit of moving into a newly refurbished unit and access to Healthcare deposit waivers and loans when transferring to Healthcare during one's termination notice period. Faircape continues to invest in its facilities to ensure it’s retirement schemes are not just well maintained but also in line with modern trends and technological advances.
For More Information
Contact: Candice Vietri (Sales Manager) Tel: 021 815 5700 Email: candicev@faircape.co.za Website: www.faircapelife.co.za
What are the benefits of this model?
Safety and security is frequently top of mind of South Africans. StatsSA released The Governance, Public Safety, and Justice Survey revealing that during the period 2019/20 an estimated 1,200,000 burglaries took place in the country representing 5,3% of households. During the same period, 169,000 home robberies took place representing an additional 0,8% of all households. Hijacking represents further threat with 265,000 taking place in the same period. Of these, Richard Brussow, Director of the National Hijacking Prevention Academy (NHPA) says the majority occur in residential driveways.
Thankfully, Faircape Life has invested heavily into state-of-the-art security equipment, and highly trained surveillance personnel to provide a totally stress-free environment at all 6 villages. Every aspect of security has been carefully accounted for.
All Faircape Life villages feature boomed access control points replete with biometric scanning, surveillance cameras, and friendly security guards. Camera Surveillance Services Manager, Marius Bezuidenhoutthe leading provider of advanced surveillance and off-site monitoring solutions in Cape Town - explains that these surveillance cameras are not the out-dated CCTV cameras from yesteryear.
At their state-of-the-art off-site monitoring control room, Mr Bezuidenhout, reveals their surveillance solutions integrate sophisticated video analytics technologies which tirelessly monitor camera feeds to support the camera monitoring personnel. This ensures that nothing suspicious goes unnoticed. Their systems can automatically detect any number of events - from loitering to attempts to scale perimeter barriersbefore verifying with trained personnel.
Mr Bezuidenhout also describes how the entire security system of each estate is completely incorporated to create a whole that is more efficacious than the sum of its parts. For example, the electrified perimeter fencing is connected to the video surveillance software. This means that every time the fencing is triggered, the camera monitoring that point of the perimeter is activated ensuring that staff can verify a potential threat before it becomes crime-in-progress.
Where the safety of village residents is concerned, Faircape Life believes that prevention is better than cure. That’s why only the best security features, the most effective technologies, and the most highlytrained personnel are employed.
“Life should not only be lived, it should be celebrated.” - Osho
We can still hear the laughter and jolly Christmas carols from the splendid celebrations. Christmas time is always a merry time at Faircape Life Retirement Villages. Last year, we celebrated Christmas in style with stunning decorations and hearty Christmasstyle lunches and dinners that created a fun, festive atmosphere.
Activities and events kept the Christmas spirits high throughout December, with visits from family members making it even more special.
At our Christmas lunches and dinners, our chefs cooked up a storm so that our residents had a very special culinary experience. We love seeing our residents coming together to enjoy special occasions and holidays, and we strive to make every Christmas special.
Time flies and Christmas is almost around the corner again. We cannot wait to see you all at this year's Christmas celebrations so we can indulge in all the lunches, dinners, and especially the desserts… And remember, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singinging out loud for all to hear.” - Will Ferrell.
Tobie Hannekom is the Horticulturist in residence at Bridgewater, Heritage, and Onrus Manors. He grew up on a grape farm next to the Orange River where his love for nature and plants blossomed. Having spent his formative years elbow deep in the soil of his very own vegetable garden, his thumbs are as green as they come. Some of his fondest memories are of time spent with his mother in her garden planting annuals, splitting and dividing. He especially loves propagating indoor plants in the Monstera and Ariod genera.
He’s managed to nurture his childhood passion and cultivate a fruitful career in horticulture and landscaping. Today, he shares his top 5 autumnal activities for the garden:
• Autumn is the perfect time to split/lift and divide plant material like agapanthus, irus, arums and cannas to allow for flowers in spring.
• Planting of all winter flowering bulbs and annuals like snapdragons, pansies, violas, alyssum, primulas, delphiniums, dianthus, foxgloves and petunias.
• Deadhead summer flowering annuals and remove plants that are completely done flowering.
• To ensure the well-being of one’s gardens, one must perform all pruning at the beginning of autumn.
• Check agapanthus, amaryllis, clivias, and fire lilies for lily borer caterpillars. If the surface of the leaves of these plants has turned brown or developed blisters, you’ll know these pests are in residence.
“The love of gardening is a seed once sown that never dies.”
— Gertrude Jekyll
Have you ever thought of collecting as a hobby? People collect for many different reasons, items might help them relive childhood memories or it might be exciting or fascinating to the collector. Some people might feel some kind of attachment to certain items and others might do it to resell and make a living.
People have collected various items for many years. People usually collect anything from manufactured goods like toys and dolls, to natural items such as bird’s eggs, butterflies, and gemstones. There is a category for everyone from adolescents to the more mature individual.
If you enjoy collecting and organising items that interest you, like feathers, flowers, CD’s, gemstones, and more you might be
collecting as a hobby and not even know it! Some of the most popular items collected are stamps, coins, baseball pins, wine, vinyl, comic books, toys and trading cards.
There are even names for some serial collectors… Archtophilists collect teddy bears, a philatelist collects postage stamps, and a deltiologist collects postcards.
Interestingly, many TV shows are produced purely around collecting and showcasing some of the most magnificent collections.
Collecting truly is a harmless way of gathering some of your most loved and enjoyed items. What is something you would like to collect?
“Keep your vitality. A life without health is like a river without water.”
- Maxime Lagace
Making your meals Mediterranean style is one of the most effective ways to improve your overall health. The Mediterranean diet has been linked with good health including increased longevity, reduced joint inflammation, and lowered incidence of stroke. Thankfully, this type of diet is also delicious! So, let’s tuck in and find out how to eat for enjoyment and enhanced wellness at the same time.
The Mediterranean diet encompasses foods from a variety of countries. In general, it’s made up of vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, beans, cereals, grains, fish, and unsaturated fats like extra virgin olive oil. Additionally, you’ll want to include a splash of dairy, a slice of meat, and a sip of red wine.
Nutritional advice from leading authorities (USFDA, NHS) all agree on the following advice:
• Base your meals on starchy foods like sweet potatoes, rice, and pasta - and always choose the wholegrain option where possible. This helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.
• Eat 5 portions of fruit and veg each day, being sure to include a variety. Fresh fruits and vegetables are ripe with antioxidants which helps to mitigate the transformation of cholesterol into artery-clogging plaque. Additionally, leafy-greens are rich in folate which may reduce the risk of stroke.
• For proteins - be sure to eat at least 1 portion of oily fish per week, opt for pulses and legumes like chickpeas, and make sure meat portions are no bigger than the palm of your hand. Men who eat more than two servings of red meat a day have a 28% higher risk of stroke than men who eat a portion of red meat every three days.
• Consume dairy in moderation - and if you enjoy a splash of milk in your coffee or tea, try for the lower-fat versions. Calcium and potassium both help to control blood pressure!
• Opt for olive oil! Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is considered a superfood for good reason. It’s high in heart-healthy unsaturated oleic acid, and linoleic acid plus polyphenols.
Here we are in the winter of 2022, halfway into the year and over two years into living with COVID-19.
The Greek philosopher Heraclitus once said, "The only constant is change." As seasons change, so our bodies, minds, and surroundings are always changing and to say that the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has changed the world, would be an understatement.
But, they also say “Change is as good as a holiday”. When it comes to the pandemic, the changes have been difficult. It has changed how we work, learn and interact as social distancing guidelines have led to a more virtual existence, both personally and professionally, but it has also brought positive changes. It has changed how people approach their health and
lifestyle. People used the time to get healthier. From spending more time outdoors, to starting an exercise program, to improved sleep patterns, to better eating habits.
Change begins at the end of your comfort zone. It can offer new opportunities and embracing something different from your normal routine means that many positives can be achieved. The simple art of making a change has been proven to increase your wellbeing and make you genuinely happy which is the main reason why we all love holidays.
Embracing change is easier said than done, so here are a few tips to guide you in the right direction:
1. Remember that change is inevitable, normal, and necessary. Remind yourself of this as often as you need to. Sometimes just the acknowledgement of this offers us greater capacity to deal with everything that transition brings.
2. Claim your sphere of control. Assess the situation and determine which elements are within your control and which elements are not. This will help you to focus on what you can actually change instead of wasting time on what you have no control over.
3. Try to separate yourself from the experience. You are not defined simply by this one change; you are an entire being with various and extensive experiences. Life changes can impact you greatly, but you get to decide what each transition will mean for you and your life journey. It may be helpful to remind yourself that, in the greater scheme of things, this is simply one of many turns in the road.
4. Ensure that you maintain your selfcare routines and rituals to the best of your ability. When you are going through transitions in life, it can be very useful to rely on your regular self-care practices to help you feel grounded and
supported throughout the change you are experiencing. Whether this is going for a long walk, meditating each morning, taking a relaxing bath, or practising some yoga, it is important to stick to the self-care routines that work for you.
5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. There is no glory in suffering in silence, so don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family and other support systems if you need a little extra love and care during this time of transition.
6. Celebrate your growth! Through each and every change, you are making progress and growing into an even better version of yourself; find a way to honour this growth. Without change we wouldn’t get very far in life; we would be stagnant, bored, and uninspired. Change is an important and necessary part of life, so embrace change in order to experience the joy of life. Stop looking back, focus on where you’re headed and know where you’re going. Keep getting up and keep walking. To progress is to move forward. Make the choice to rise up when you fall, dust yourself off and keep going.
Written by Marijke Scrooby and Tayla MoutonBoost your immune system the fun way
Did you know that there are actually fun and easy ways to boost your immune system this flu season? We all know how important social distancing, wearing a mask, and hand sanitising is but living healthily and happily doesn’t have to end at COVID-19 protocols.
Take a fitness class, go for a stroll along the beach, or just dance in the kitchen when no-one is watching! Regular exercise is known to boost the immune system and help your body more effectively fight off infection. So get your heart pumping to reduce your chances of falling ill.
Studies reveal that losing out on quality sleep can make one more susceptible to colds and flu. Eight hours a night is still the gold-standard for keeping the immune system primed. If lack of sleep is something you struggle with, be sure to get more exercise and chat to your trusted pharmacist about safe over the counter sleep aids.
We all respond to stressful situations in life differently but consistent stress can leave the immune system weakened. Healthy stress management skills can help keep you flu-free this cold season! Practise mediation, spend more quality time with loved ones (including dogs and cats), get a massage, and try to cut down on the coffee.
“The most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.”
- Helen Keller
In February, we celebrated 5-years of our beautiful and much-celebrated establishment. Time has flown, our estate and community have flourished, and we find ourselves in a wonderfully peaceful environment at Tokai Estate.
With the opening of theatres, we can resume our cultural activities, which we have done starting at the Baxter to see 'The Life of Michael K and The Bay' where we viewed 'Shirley Valentine'.
Wine estates beckon, and our bus has been traversing the Stellenbosch and Franschhoek hills finding the perfect combination of beautiful bouquets and delectable lunches.
In-house, Bridge has once again taken off with classes on a weekly basis.
Documentaries are being sourced and enjoyed by residents, along with our latest addition of Oscar-nominated movies. Our pub evenings are lively again, and our monthly wine tastings are as popular as ever. Art and aqua classes have resumed much to the enjoyment of our residents.
Soon, our residents will take the floor for a long-overdue dinner dance and a delicious 2-course meal.
Winter is here, and we look forward to embracing further adventures and firsts at Tokai.
Yours Sincerely,
Dear Residents,
Here at Noordhoek Manor, we believe that the key to a carefree and satisfying retirement is choosing a retirement village that holds the following 10 essential ‘ingredients’ listed below:
1. Pet-Friendly. We believe that a much-loved pet offers wonderful companionship, is an effective antidote to loneliness, reduces stress, and gives your life purpose.
2. Social activities. At Noordhoek Manor, residents are spoilt for choice. We have something for everyone, from day trips to wine farms to lottery and bingo evenings, movie afternoons, scrabble, bridge, pub evenings, and more.
3. Delightful natural surroundings. Situated within the Silvermine Nature Reserve, Noordhoek Manor comprises 173 units overlooking Fish Hoek Beach and Clovelly Country Club and is surrounded by a great diversity of fynbos and an abundance of birdlife.
4. A Club House offering delicious, topquality food. We have a fabulous Club House serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
5. Exercise. In addition to a gym and heated swimming pool, we offer yoga and aqua aerobics classes.
6. Top-notch healthcare. We have an excellent multi-disciplinary healthcare team, right on our doorstep. Our Healthcare Coordinator, social workers,
and occupational therapists are all available to our residents.
7. Outstanding Staff. Our staff has been carefully chosen! Not only do we pride ourselves on being efficient and attentive, but caring and empathetic too.
8. 24/7 Security. Panic buttons are in every home, electric fences, and security cameras to ensure the safety of our residents.
9. Location. Our village is close to an abundance of great restaurants, shopping centres, hiking routes, and beaches.
10. Community. Last but certainly not least, the final ingredient is a caring, supportive community of residents which enables all to enjoy a safe, healthy, active, social, tranquil, and hassle-free lifestyle.
At Noordhoek Manor, both residents and staff alike are proud of our village. We are not an old-age home but a lifestyle village, dedicated to helping our residents create the best memories of their lives.
Thank you to all of our residents for making Noordhoek Manor the warm and welcoming community it is.
Best wishes,
Dear Residents,
2022 started off with great hope and promise following a trying 2021.
There has been great celebration and festivities brought on by the increased freedom as the intensity of Covid slowly loosens its grip, allowing all to come together and enjoy community and fellowship.
Friendships and connections have been rekindled and it has been wonderful to behold, much like a flower opening up after a storm. Life, as we know it, has changed and keeps changing with continuous challenges such as power outages and the threats of war looming, but it never ceases to amaze me as I observe the resilience and incredible strength of the human spirit which is so prevalent here at Heritage Manor.
Not all change is bad and some of the more pleasant ones have seen us welcoming a number of new faces to our villages, how quickly friendships have formed, and people settling in and enjoying the community life on offer. Most of our clubs and activities are back to full capacity with a few new ones have been introduced to the mix.
At last, outings are a regular feature on our calendar with trips to the theatre and nearby nature reserves to name but a few. One is spoilt for choice as the food offerings
available have increased exponentially with daily and weekly specials and evening meals.
The upgrading of our facilities is ongoing as we endeavour to remain one of the most sought-after villages to live in.
Despite the unusually hot summer months with temperatures spiking in the mid 30 degrees, our residents have continued to work hard to keep our gardens looking great. With shorter days and longer nights now on its way, we are looking forward to our next season with even more hope and promise as we started out.
God Bless
Winter is here, and has come in full swing with the cool, rainy weather we've been experiencing. The Clubhouse is abuzz with residents chirping happily and looking energised. Somehow winter weather doesn’t sound so daunting this year as it promises a return of warm drinks and cosy meetings around the fire, steaming soups and sumptuous stews, friendly banter at happy hour, and wrapping up to the ears to trot home at dusk.
With a booster round of vaccinations behind us, we are slowly getting back to the activities and get-togethers that make the Onrus Manor community such a vibrant one to be part of.
Old and new pursuits are sought after again, with our intrepid gamers back at Bolivia, Rummikub, and Bridge. Activities are also picking up with the bowling balls dusted off for Carpet bowls and growing numbers attending Pilates and Yoga. Aqua Pilates
and Hydrotherapy-enthusiasts joining in the pool and artists for Art class. Suddenly the Clubhouse fills up again for music hour, movie dates, Library literary discussions, and Bible study. Bumper bingo nights are back and Fish and Chips fans fill every seat on Fridays... Summer may be on its way out, but those “lekker kuiers” are coming in from the cold again!
Recently starting as the new Village Manager at Onrus Manor, I want to thank all the residents and staff for being so welcoming... In my short time at Onrus Manor I’ve been overwhelmed by the warm welcome. I look forward to serving the community and adding a smile and a dash of humour to the lovely residents and staff.
Dear Residents,
We are all looking forward to these cooler days as winter is settling in...
January and February were some of the hottest months that we have experienced, but luckily at Bridgewater Manor, we are blessed with beautiful big trees that help with shade. We also have a pool and beautiful gardens to enjoy on those scorching days. We even had an old-school ice cream truck visit the Village on the 16th of February, bringing fond childhood memories back to some residents!
Our Residents enjoyed some lovely outings this summer, exploring some of Stellenbosch’s most historic museums and wine farms. We are truly blessed to stay in the Winelands, where stunning wine farms are just on our doorstep. It brings us such joy seeing our Residents on these outings, enjoying time out, laughing, and
just being semi-normal again.
We look forward to bringing more joy and happiness to all our Residents as we head into cozy winter days, with inhouse movie afternoons, hearty winter food from our Village dining room, and freshly made hot chocolate from our Coffee shop!
Stay warm and stay safe! Regards,
Dear Residents,
Having faced so much gloom over the last year, it’s time to get back into a positive frame of mind. And this starts with you. We all want nothing more than to have what was, and Clé Du Cap has made sure that you can achieve this in 2022 with the brand new Gym for our Residents, fitted out with all you need to rebuild, reconnect and readjust.
If your body is happy you are happy! And with so much to do and all that’s on offer, it could not be easier to unwind, reboot and get yourself back on track.
So:
• Set some goals – by setting goals you give more meaning to your day, week or month.
• Be grateful –practising gratitude is the quickest way to increase happiness.
Acknowledging a few things to be grateful
for each day changes the way you see the world and ...yes you guessed, it makes you happy.
• Nourish friendships – reconnect with people, set coffee dates, lunch dates or better yet, come and join in on game days or pub nights.
These are just a few ways to get back on the happy track.
I look forward to the day we can see each other’s smiling faces and not just a smile in the eyes. We have come so far together and done so well, let’s keep on going and make this year one to remember. And for those who have just joined the CDC family – we welcome you with open arms and wish you a long, happy retirement.
Our walking group at Kirstenbosch standing in front of the 100 year old Gardenia thunbergia bush and a centuries-old oak tree.On a perfect autumn day, 17 members of the Tokai Estate Weazer walking group strolled through the beautiful shady part of Kirstenbosch gardens admiring several of the Centenarian trees which were planted in the Garden in 1913. Some of these trees were already growing there for many centuries before the Garden was even created. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the morning and the privilege of having such a wonderful botanical garden in our city.
Art groups are also a popular affair at Tokai Estate. Our art group often enjoy getting creative in the mornings. Recently they enjoyed a lovely morning at St James beach, admiring the view and putting their own visualisations onto paper.
Tokai Estate residents enjoy the finer things in life. Wine tastings and lunch are often on the agenda of outings for our residents. One of the lovely wine farms we had the privilege to visit is Haskell’s Wine Farm in Stellenbosch where our residents experienced a wine tasting and delicious lunch while mesmerised by the spectacular views. One of the favourites of their range was Haskell’s Finex vintage, a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. Cheers to visiting more cozy wine farms in winter 2022.
From matric at 16 to a PhD at 80!
One of our residents, Rosemary Lapping-Sellars, has proven that it is never too late to follow your dreams or set a new challenge for yourself. Rosemary graduated from Stellenbosch University in December 2021 with her masters in visual arts. Those who have had the privilege of meeting Rosemary, knows she is an exceptionally talented and vibrant woman and we are extremely proud of this accomplishment.
When asked what inspired her to take on this new goal, she stated that “My four children all live overseas and I was, quite simply, compelled to realign the algorithm in my head. Later that year, a friend came to visit and said quite bluntly, ‘You have no choice but to rethink your life, go back to study. Do your Master’s. It will be marvellous for you.’”
Lapping-Sellars, as stated on Sunday Times (2021) committed her lifetime to art and ceramics, Lapping-Sellars obtained a Bachelor’s degree in fine arts and psychology from the then Natal University, after which she took up a teaching post as head of the ceramic department at the Port Elizabeth Technikon. A year later, she returned to her hometown of Pretoria to open a child art studio.
She also taught art at the Nato base in Fontainebleau in France and exhibited in London. On her return to Cape Town in 2006, she opened a multimedia teaching studio for adults, which she ran until 2016.
We cannot wait to see what is yet to come for Rosemary Lapping-Sellars.
Our residents have a passion for knitting and often use that passion for good.
One of these residents is Mrs Doreen Maree, at Cle Du Cap Knits teddies for the Children at the Red Cross Children's hospital. She has spread her passion far and wide, with nurses from the UK getting involved to knit teddies for children undergoing Chemotherapy at the Red Cross Children's hospital.
These teddies are so bright and beautiful and we know they will bring joy to these children.
We also have our Vintage Ladies Craft Group which donated a selection of blankets and knitted clothing. One of the thank you letters from the Ackerman Family Office highlight the lovely work this group does…
“To the members of the Noordhoek Retirement Village Craft Club, I write to you as Trustee of the Ackerman Family Foundation on behalf of Mandy Ackerman our liaison to the Foundation’s work in the Victoria Hospital Paediatric Ward. Mandy was humbled by the blankets and knitted clothing prepared by your group that the Foundation will be able to provide to the most vulnerable members of our society, premature and sick children. The ability to provide a warm and personal item to people who endure significant hardship and are faced with a sick child amidst the overwhelming needs in South Africa is a wonderful gift and your contribution will be evidence that there are people who care.
We thank you for identifying our project as a beneficiary of your hard and very fine work and will send you some photographs of the items and their new owners in due course.
On the 25th of February we celebrated, in style, of course, 5 wonderful years at Tokai Estate.
Our residents enjoyed mingling amidst the beautiful surroundings and enjoyed the entertainment and delicious food. It was indeed a perfect evening!
Village Manager, Ann Steel, boasts, “Tokai has flourished and grown both as an estate, establishing itself as one of the most sought after addresses in the Southern Suburbs and as a community. I remember the first arrivals doing their best to settle in however within 6 months it was home - with residents who had been abroad returning to the estate saying how glad they were to be home. Recently I was chatting to a resident who said that every evening she puts her head on her pillow and realizes how lucky she is to live in this stunning estate.”
The establishment of this community has happened in only a few short years and we cannot wait to celebrate the next 5 years. What a party that will be!
The Robert Gray Medal Award, which is described as the most prestigious award that a school can bestow on an old boy of Bishops, was awarded to John Gardener, resident at Cle Du Cap.
John received the Robert Gray Medal Award for his remarkable work as an educator and sports coach at Bishops. He was also a teacher at Wynberg Boys and Bishops, Headmaster of Kingswood College in Grahamstown and Principal at Bishops, and Chairman of the African Scholars’ Fund. In his retirement, John was also Chairman of the Western Cape Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa (ISASA) consisting of representatives of the region's school governing bodies. He was also involved in the design of a school quality assurance system for the Independent Quality Assurance Agency (IQAA) where he contributed much through his mentoring work in schools.
John, who was born in 1930, continued for many years in his capacity as mentor, counsellor and coach in his specialist professional field. He has also done a lot of journalistic writing for different publications and websites including many years of quarterly articles for the ISASA magazine as well as articles on the Rugby 365 website. He is sometimes known as ‘Johnopedia’ for his specialist knowledge as an editor, sports reporter, cryptographer, lyricist, reviewer, arbiter of grammatical disputes and as a school historian. A little-known fact is that he has also written over 50 hymns.
It is no secret that residents have missed life before lockdown, and while we just passed the 2 year mark of life with Covid, we are happy to see residents going back to their usual activities.
We dream of our retirement villages finally being mask-free so we can see all your beautiful smiles once again. But in the meantime, we have enjoyed opening our doors for events, village get-togethers
and outings. In the last year, we have seen residents enjoy various wine farms, lottery evenings, and art and book clubs and some residents even travel overseas to visit family and friends.
We are excited to be hosting more events in 2022, and see monthly activity calendars from all our 6 villages filling up for fun-filled and jam-packed monthly activities.
Bridgewater Manor residents live on a historic South African farm whose story is recorded in many well known books, namely Peggy Heap’s book “Hottentots Holland”, Hans Fransen’s “Guide to the old buildings of the Cape”, Lawrence Green’s “Beyond the City Lights” and André Theron Morkel’s “Morkel: A remarkable South African family”.
Philip Morkel from Hamburg, Germany, arrived at the Cape in a VOC (Dutch East India Company) ship in the early 1700s. In 1713, Philip Morkel married Catharina Pasman who had inherited the farm Onwerwacht (later called Die Bos) a huge tract of some 500 morgen which stretched from the Hottentots Holland mountains, including what is now Somerset West, right through to the present day Strand. It became Philip’s property in 1718. He is the progenitor of all the Morkels in Southern Africa.
During the late 1700s portions of the farm were split off and given to the Morkel sons. A large portion known as Voorburg, a farm lying alongside the Lourens River, was given to Willem Morkel. Voorburg is the name given to the main lounge at Bridgewater Manor. Third generation, Willem Morkel inherited Voorburg when his father died in 1788. The will specified that a house and farm buildings be constructed on the farm.
Willem and Anna Morkel started building a homestead in 1788. The Manor House carries a plaque commemorating this date. In Victorian times, the building was much changed with a double storey addition, loft windows and very tall gables. Inside there are some very high early ceiling beams and in the entrance foyer, big heavy doors. Many travellers were hospitably received at Voorburg. An 1803 traveller’s diary records: “Unconstrained hospitality, we were sumptuously entertained, the evening meal was a lavish one, the beds were good.” When Willem died in 1839, Voorburg was sold and renamed Bridgewater, being close to the bridge across the Lourens River.
During the years the farm was further subdivided again and again. From 1817, as the town of Somerset West developed, this area was called Bridgewater – a residential area. However, the Voorburg Manor House continued to play a central part in the
life of the town. In the late 1890s, horse racing meetings were held nearby and Race Balls and Race Dinners were popular social events often held in the Voorburg homestead, owned at the time by Mr Pieter Myburgh.
About 20 years ago a new bridge was built over the Lourens River near Fagan Street. Later, Andries Pretorius Street was extended and connected to Main Road, so separating the Manor House from the river.
In September 1987 Bridgewater Manor Retirement Village was advertised. It was developed by Nick and Pat Baines.
On 1 June 1988 Bridgewater Manor was opened – coincidentally 200 years after the homestead was first started. There is a commemorative plaque for the opening outside the door from the Voorburg lounge to the garden.
Cottages 1 to 37 formed the first phase and all was nearly ready for the first occupants. Thea Selzer (sadly she passed away on 12 May 2019) and her husband moved in on the first day. Thea had a wonderful memory and told us much about the history of Bridgewater Manor since its founding.
Thea remembered that the wall along Andries Pretorius Street from cottage 3 to the bottom gate was not built – the property was open to the street. There were deep furrows waiting for the sewerage and water pipes, with small footbridges over them so that residents could reach their cottages. Security staff only came at weekends. The walls and security gates were only erected sometime later. Sand and bricks lay where further cottages were to be built.
For the first 3 days there was no electricity (June is a cold month!) and there were no telephones for 3 months. The main kitchen was not yet finished. So, the caterer brought in ready cooked meals and washing up was done in what today is the reception area.
Only the first dining room was ready. The other four were still to be completed. Then building started on Health Care and more cottages were added. The project was completed in 2½ years – much earlier than expected. And although not everything was perfect in the beginning, Thea said “We all had lots of fun and few complaints, if any.” And, we have a special lady who has been here since day 1 – Caroline Stopforth. a Dining Room Head Waitress. She too has many interesting tales to tell.
Before the new Clubhouse building started, there was a decorative gate in the boundary wall. It is called the ‘Fleur gate’ and is a beautiful piece of wrought-iron work with leaves and grapes decorations. For security reasons the gate was kept closed. The gate is in memory of a young girl called Fleur Secretan who died at the young age of 18. She was the companion of Mrs Rockey, the previous owner of Bridgewater Manor. The ‘Fleur gate’ has been re-erected next to the Clubhouse in the newly landscaped garden.
We are blessed with a Manor House with its beautiful lounges and gracious atmosphere, surrounded by comfortable cottages and attractive gardens. An 1849 painting shows Somerset West as it was then, with large trees on Voorburg. Two huge Norfolk pines still stand – one with the star on top which is lit at Christmas time.
In 2012, the Financial Management of Bridgewater Manor was taken over by Faircape. This has resulted in not only fewer headaches for the Residents’ Management Committee, but also splendid input into the maintenance and refurbishment of the Manor House and the kitchen. The dining rooms were repainted and newly carpeted, new dining room tables and chairs were installed and trolleys provided for serving meals.
A new borehole is operational providing irrigation for the whole garden. Improved staff facilities are now in use in the attractively renovated barn, a dedicated library room has been developed as well as six new Health Care rooms and adjacent garden courtyard.
In February 2019 the new Clubhouse opened with splendid new facilities – an activity room, a games room, an indoor heated swimming pool, a small gym, a coffee shop, more toilets and showers. Vacant cottages are being extended and refurbished.
Our story ends with a remarkable fact –we are proud to have as residents, a direct descendant of Willem Morkel who built the Voorburg Manor House, a 9th generation Morkel and his wife – Dennis and Elween Morkel. Sadly, shortly after this article was written, Mr Dennis Morkel passed away.
Written by Mrs Pamela Duff (Bridgewater Manor)
We are dedicated to supporting our beloved fur friends. We will continue to support them in whatever small ways we can to ensure the SPCA and Animal Welfare can continue the magnificent work they do!
We truly admire and are proud to be associated with these organisations, representing those that cannot talk. Let’s continue to do pawsome work!
Help the Rural Child
Giving
Help the Rural Child Charity Shops are a chain of 7 retail outlets dotted around the Cape Peninsula. They also have a mobile bookstore which travels from school to school.
The shops sell pre-loved books, clothing, sporting equipment, furniture and general merchandise. Really, they sell anything and everything - giving goods others no longer need a second lease on life.
Help the Rural Child is part of the Goedgedacht Trust which aims to transform rural communities by giving children and young adults opportunities to become healthy, self-confident, educated
and skillful.
As part of the trust, Help the Rural Child supports a number of initiatives that are truly making a difference every single day. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic alone, they have served at least 601,986 hot meals and driven 20,248 km to deliver food where it matters most.
We can all agree that there is something particularly special in being a grandparent. There are very few privileges in life like that of seeing one’s grandchildren grow up in front of you.The reality is, in the course of time, we often find ourselves heading in different directions, where half of the family suddenly ends up on distant shores, even living overseas.
One of the biggest challenges of being separated from your family is staying connected and involved in your grandchildren's lives. Some might believe that there is no way of keeping a steady relationship when your grandkids are so far away, but there are a few ways in which you can still connect and feel close to your family.
Keep in mind that grandparents play a big role in defining their grandchildren's cultural identities and moral values. But nobody is born with an understanding of how to be a long-distance grandparent and we are here to let you know that it is never too late for you to stay in touch, as long as you make an effort.
Here are a few essential tips on how you can be the best long-distance grandparent you can be.
1. Make the Most Of Video Calls. We have access to ever-evolving technology that gives us the opportunity to strengthen our relationships and feel connected with their lives. Nothing compares to the pleasure of spending time with your grandchildren face-to-face. If you have fibre internet, you can easily video-call your family over Whatsapp, with no additional cost. Contact Faircom Fibre to get started today.
2. Send a Care Package. Nothing can beat even the simplest of handmade gifts or even a loving letter. These are moments that will be kept close to their hearts, especially as they grow up.
Consider these steps to be present, influential, and part of your grandchildren's lives.
3. In-Person Visit.
Although international travel might be a bit more challenging, take a local trip to visit your family or invite them to visit you. You want to experience the fellowship firsthand, create in-person memories, and build a bond so that your grandchildren will always look forward to your next visit.
(The Best Way to Spark Joy!)
Declutter to make sure your possessions don’t own you. Downsizing for retirement comes with many challenges – not least of which is coming to terms with all of the material possessions one accumulates. Thankfully, decluttering doesn’t have to feel overwhelming… Find out how to make it more manageable
1.
First things, first! The best way to start decluttering is to make lists. Itemising the challenge at hand helps to chunk it down into smaller, more easily accomplished tasks. We suggest starting off by listing the rooms/spaces in your home which you’ll be decluttering. Bedrooms, bathrooms, garages, sheds, and kitchens can all be tackled individually and are much less daunting individually than they are combined.
Set aside cardboard boxes and label them: “Bin”, “Recycle”, “Donate”, “Keep”. Once you have these boxes assigned, you can go from room to room on a decluttering spree. When deciding which box to put your possessions into, follow your instincts. You’ll know instinctively when an item is something truly worth keeping.
Remember, there’s no rush. Go at your own pace when decluttering your home. It doesn’t have to be a physically demanding task and it can be done slowly. But if you’re concerned that you might procrastinate, you can always ask friends or family to help.
Decluttering your home can be liberating but if we don’t address the behaviours that lead to accumulating clutter, we’ll find ourselves at square one in no time. To prevent more clutter, follow these easy practises:
· Buy to replace Buying only to replace the items you need is one of the best ways to prevent clutter. For example if a mug or plate breaks, don’t buy a new set. Buy only a replacement. You can apply this to your clothing as well. If you spot a beautiful garment at the shops that you simply have to have, remove and donate an item from your wardrobe at the same time.
· Make sure everything has its place Give every item you own a home (and make sure it lives there). When everything has its own place, it makes it much easier to keep our living spaces free from clutter. And if you find that something doesn’t have a designated place, then there’s a good chance that you don’t need it. Remind yourself of all the good reasons to declutter
There are so many benefits to decluttering one’s environment!
· Rediscover, and reminisce
· Cleanse your home of allergens
· Reduces tripping/falling hazards
· Makes moving easier, and new beginnings even fresher
· More space for activities
· Give to charity Declutter Inspiration with Marie Kondo
“The purpose of life, after all, is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for a newer and richer experience.” - Eleanor Roosevelt
Our villagers enjoyed stunning wine and food pairings with magnificent views
January is the perfect time for winetasting fun in the Western Cape. Our residents were treated to various wine tastings and pairings at wine farms in the Winelands.
The first of the wine farms to be visited was Eikendal Vineyards. This beautiful winery has a delicious wine and cheesecake pairing offering. Residents were pleasantly surprised by the unique flavours of cake and wine paired together.
Somerbosch Wines was next on the list, for another sweet treat - a very interesting wine and ice cream tasting. This wine farm is tucked away between Stellenbosch and Somerset West and has a lovely shaded outside area. Our residents enjoyed the fresh air while being guided through the tastes by the hostess. After lunch, a gentle stroll through the beautiful estate helped to finish off what was a wonderful day.
We also visited the renowned Vergelegen Estate in Somerset West. Residents went on a tour of the wine farm and enjoyed picking and sampling the grapes off the vines. After building up an appetite we sat down and had the tastiest of lunches along with Somerset West's finest wine offering, the Vergelegen Wines.
With so many more wine farms to visit in the Winelands, stay tuned for more wine outings!
Have you ever thought of retiring in Somerset West? Surrounded by the peaceful and beautiful Cape Winelands, with secure Retirement Villages like Bridgewater Manor and Heritage Manor, here are some reasons why Somerset West really is the ideal place to retire.
With Strand Beach and Gordon’s Bay only a stone's throw away, sunset beach walks can become a daily affair.
Somerset West has some of South Africa’s best and top-rated wine farms and restaurants.
With the Helderberg nature reserve right at your doorstep and Hottentots Holland Mountains surrounding Somerset West, you will be spoilt with breathtaking views.
4.
Somerset West has a wide variety of cosy coffee shops with delicious cake, perfect to cosy up during wintertime or get a quick bite.
5. Major shopping malls
Somerset Mall is one of the largest shopping centres in the Western Cape with many popular shops, you won’t need to travel far for all your shopping needs.
6.
Somerset West Midiclinic is a fantastic hospital situated within 2km of both Heritage Manor and Bridgewater Manor.
Faircape Life has two world-class retirement villages situated in Somerset West, Heritage Manor and Bridgewater Manor.
Heritage Manor
Heritage Manor provides an upmarket, care-free living for the discerning retiree. Its 216 contemporary face-brick cottages – surrounded by beautiful gardens –maintain an air of peaceful tranquillity.
The Village comprises a range of freestanding and semi-detached homes. Varying in layout, these cottages offer two or three bedrooms with one or two bathrooms. With spacious living areas, well equipped modern kitchens with an oven, hob, large windows and sliding doors leading onto patios, these homes are the epitome of comfort and convenience. They also have single or double garages providing direct access.
Bridgewater Manor
Bridgewater Manor represents the retirement ideal, with its scenic gardens and 140 cottages centred around an elegant 18th century Cape Dutch Manor House. While the Village is situated within walking distance of Somerset West’s vibrant town centre, it is also beautifully sheltered against the hustle and bustle beyond.
All of our attractive one and two-bedroom cottage homes have access to beautifully landscaped gardens, while spacious living areas with large windows and well-equipped kitchens offer comfort and convenience. A number of cottages also have remotecontrolled garages or carports.
Find out more by visiting our website for more information on all our Retirement Villages - www.faircapelife.co.za
“Food may be essential as fuel for the body. But good food is fuel for the soul.”
- Malcolm Forbes
South Africa has over 6.3 million people living with high blood pressure, one of the highest rates worldwide! According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation SA, a staggering 80% of these cardiovascular diseases could be prevented through modified behaviour –like reducing salt.
Today we look at 5 ways to reduce the amount of salt that you eat:
1. Make fresh sauces rather than using bottled ones. Although bottled sauces are convenient, they are also often packed full of salt. If you can make the time, homemade sauces using fresh ingredients are the way to go!
2. Avoid packet spices/sauces/soups or anything else that comes in powder form! Again, these ready to go options are convenient, but not always the healthiest option! Rather plan a bit – cook a large pot of soup over the weekend and portion into freezer-friendly containers, ready for quick and easy lunches during the week.
3. If you regularly use tinned or bottled veggies, such as chickpeas, asparagus or gherkins, be sure to rinse the veggies to get rid of any excess salt. These products are often preserved in brine. Rinsing the veggies before use will not get rid of all of the salt, but it will certainly reduce the amount that you eat!
4. Make time to cook fresh, homemade meals as opposed to readymade meals or take-aways. Readymade meals and takeaways are often very high in salt. Keep these foods to an occasional basis and make sure you are eating healthy, wellbalanced home cooked meals as often as possible.
5. Don’t put salt on the table! Statistics show that 1 in 3 people add salt to their food without tasting it first. Often adding salt to a plate of food is more habit than anything else – if it’s not on the table you won’t miss it!
"Thank you very much for arranging the wonderful party we had to celebrate our diamond wedding. I can’t tell you how much we appreciated how well everything was laid on, it was truly a memorable evening. The snacks were delicious and enjoyed very much by the guests. A big thank you to the “behind the scenes” kitchen staff too, they did us proud."
"Compliments to the chef on a wonderful, delicious Calamari & chips lunch."
"Splendid Mothers Day meal, thank you."
"The platters prepared today were outstanding. A huge thank you to the staff. All the food was tasty and fresh."
Our commitment to an excellent quality of life extends beyond the services we provide residents. It’s also at the heart of our pet-friendly policy and our relationship with animals.
That’s why we’ve committed to only sourcing our poultry for the cafes from Certified Free Range suppliers
Why is Free Range Better for Us?
· It is high in protein
· A source of iron, and zinc
· Low in fat
· Free from routine antibiotics
· Free from growth hormones
Why is Free Range Better for the animals? Free Range farming is founded on the
Freedoms of Animal Welfare:
Freedom from Hunger & Thirst
Freedom from Discomfort
Freedom from Pain, Injury & Disease
Freedom to Express Normal Behaviour
Roaming Outdoors)
Freedom from Fear & Distress
Toni Smyth is the Dietitian at Faircape. Based at Tokai Estate, she sees referrals across all 6 Faircape Villages. Toni graduated from Stellenbosch University and has 16 years of experience. She has worked in various sectors both locally and abroad.
Toni is passionate about health and nutrition. She loves empowering her patients and enabling them to make dietary adjustments to optimise their health.
She loves preparing meals and experimenting with new recipes. Here are a few of her favourite:
My favourite quinoa salad
Ingredients Quinoa
1 cup quinoa , tri-colour 2 cups water Salad
1 cup cucumber , finely diced
1 carrot , medium, peeled and finely shredded
3 cups red cabbage , finely shredded (~1/4 small or 1/8 large cabbage)
2 green onions , finely sliced 250g/ 8oz cherry tomatoes , small ones quartered, large ones cut into 6 1 cup shelled edamame , cooked per packet then cooled
1 red capsicum/bell pepper , finely chopped 1/2 cup coriander/cilantro leaves , finely chopped
5 tbsp soy sauce , light or all-purpose
2 tbsp mirin
2 tbsp rice wine vinegar (sub: cider, sherry or champagne vinegar)
2 tbsp sesame oil , toasted
2 1/2 tbsp canola, vegetable or grapeseed oil
2 1/2 tbsp mayonnaise
2 1/2 tsp sugar (white or brown)
2 tsp ginger , freshly grated 1 garlic clove , crushed using garlic press or finely grated using microplane
Garnish
1/3 cup wasabi peas , crushed 1 tbsp sesame seeds , toasted
Instrictions Cook quinoa
Toast for extra flavour: Preheat oven to 200°C/390°F (180° fan) Spread quinoa on a tray. Bake 15 minutes, stirring halfway, until it's lightly browned and smells nutty. Rinse: Transfer to fine mesh sieve or strainer. Rinse under running water for 10 seconds, shake off excess water well.
Cook: Scrape into a medium saucepan. Add water, place lid on. Bring to simmer on medium heat, then lower stove to low and simmer for 15 minutes (or until all water is absorbed, tilt pot to check).
Rest: Remove from stove (lid still on) and rest for 10 minutes.
Fluff & cool: Remove lid, fluff quinoa with a fork and allow to fully cool before using. (Spread on a tray if you want to speed things up).
Salad Dressing: Place ingredients in a jar and shake well.
Toss salad! Place quinoa in a large bowl. Add all salad ingredients. Pour over dressing, toss very well.
Garnish: Either transfer to a large serving platter or individual bowls. Sprinkle generously with crushed Wasabi Peas and sesame seeds. Devour!
Reference: https://www.recipetineats.com/ my-favourite-quinoa-salad/#wprm-recipecontainer-58956
10-12 medjool dates
2 cups pecans Pinch sea salt ¼ cup desiccated coconut
Pit the medjool dates and soak them in warm water for 10 minutes until they soften Place the pitted dates and pecans in the bowl of a large food processor. Blend on high until a thick “dough” is formed and the mixture feels sticky.
Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and use your hands to roll it into a ball. If you have time you can let them set in the fridge for 5 minutes.
Roll the energy bites into desiccated or shredded coconut pressing gently so they adhere. Makes about 12-14 bites.
Reference:https://feelgoodfoodie.net/ recipe/coconut-date-balls/
120g cream cheese
1/3 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced 200g baby spinach, chopped 1 tin of artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely chopped 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees. Using a hand mixer, blend together the cream cheese, Greek yoghurt, Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves. Make sure all of the water has been pressed out of your spinach. Add the spinach and chopped artichoke hearts to the cheese mixture.
Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish and top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is bubbling and starting to brown, 20-30 minutes Serve hot. Enjoy!
10gr Butter
500gr Butternut peeled, seeded and skinned
50gr diced onions
1 whole clove star anise
5gr stick cinnamon
5gr orange zest
Water enough to cover the ingredients
100ml fresh cream
50gr butternut cubed 1cm pieces for garnish
5gr sugar
In a medium sized pot add the butter, onions, stick cinnamon and the star anise, sauté the onions till soft and translucent without adding any caramelization to them. Then add the butternut chunks and the garlic, give it a good stir then cover with water, turn down the heat and simmer till the butternut is soft.
Remove from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly, remove the stick cinnamon and star anise then blend the soup till smooth, add the blended soup back into the pot. Add the cream and bring the soup back to a simmer.
In a small pan, add the oil and the small cubes of butternut over low heat, the butternut will cook slowly and start to caramelize, once the butternut is soft add the sugar and caramelize the butternut. Be careful not to burn the sugar.
Add a ladle of soup to your favorite soup bowl, then garnish the soup with the caramelized butternut and a swirl of cream and your favorite herb before serving.you won’t miss it!
Ingredients
50ml Olive oil
1 Bay leaf
1 clove
500gr lamb leg cubed into 2.5cm cubes
2gr salt
2gr coarse black pepper
50gr diced onions
5gr garlic chopped
50ml red wine
5ml balsamic vinegar
250gr button mushrooms
250gr green beans topped and tailed
100gr pearl onions peeled and halved
200gr baby potatoes peeled
1 x chicken stock cubes
Water enough to cover the ingredients
5gr sprig of fresh thyme
80gr uncooked wild rice
In a medium pot add the oil to heat up, then season the meat with salt and pepper and sear in the oil till well browned, then turn down the heat to low and add the diced onions, bay leaf and clove, sauté till the onions are soft then add the garlic. Turn the heat back up to high, then add the red wine to deglaze the pot, be sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen all the crispy bits of flavor. Once the alcohol has evaporated and reduced then add the balsamic vinegar and reduce by half. Then add the green beans and pearl onions and thyme,
continue to sauté and stir continuously till the onions have some color.
Cover the meat with water and add the stock cube, then simmer for one hour. After this time remove one of the pieces of meat and test for tenderness, now add the mushrooms, potatoes and simmer over low heat until potatoes have cooked and the sauce has reduced to desired thickness. Cook the wild rice as per packet instructions.
Serve in your favorite dish and garnish with some fresh rosemary on the hot food to fill the air with the aromatics of the rosemary.
Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, cream the eggs and sugar together, then melt the butter and add the butter, salt, apricot jam and orange zest to the egg mixture. Dissolve the bicarb into the milk, now sift the flour into the egg mixture and combine then add the milk with bicarb to make a batter. Line a baking dish or individual molds with butter or spray and cook, then spoon your batter mix into the dish. Bake at 175 for 20minutes if in single serving molds and 30min if in a large oven dish, double check with a skewer if the batter is cooked through by inserting a skewer into the pudding if the skewer comes out clean then it is cooked.
Combine all the ingredients for the sauce in a small pot and bring to the boil, whilst the pudding is still hot, drenched the sauce over the pudding until it does not absorb any more of the sauce. Set aside the pudding, then reduce the left over sauce till thick and serve with you pudding.
The vital necessity of water is often overlooked when it comes to the conversation about healthy ageing. The importance of staying physically active, eating more of the right foods, and less of the wrong ones often take centre stage. Whilst those things are extremely significant for good health, so too is health hydration.
As we get older, the sensation of thirst diminishes. Forming healthy hydration habits is an effective way to ensure you’re getting enough water without relying on the sensation of thirst. Thankfully, there are easy ways to form a lasting habit that will benefit you forever:
1. Keeping a reusable bottle of water with you wherever you are (at home or out and about) will make it easy to access water at all times. The reusable bottle will also serve as a constant reminder to sip.
2. Foods can be an excellent source of water too! Add celery, cucumber, fresh tomatoes, and of course watermelon to your daily snacking.
3. Drink a glass of water before meals. This method is called ‘habit stacking’ - it adds a new habit to an existing one (meal time) and helps to incorporate it into routine more successfully.
• Improved digestion: drinking water before and during meals stimulates healthy digestion. It improves absorption
of nutrients and promotes regular bowel movements.
• Better brain function: proper water intake is associated with faster decision making and improved performance on cognitive tests.
• Boosts energy levels: dehydration is associated with fatigue, and reduced performance. So, keeping up with your daily water needs will help you to feel more energetic.
“We forget that the water cycle and the life cycle are one.”
— Jacques Yves Cousteau
1. The act of starting something or inducting someone into a group.
2. That which is moving, motivating, or stimulating. The opposite of expiration.
3. A feeling of expectation and desire for a particular thing to happen. A positive feeling.
4. The first book of the Old Testament.
5. The action or process of bringing something into existence.
6. Recently created or harvested. Unspoilt.
7. The point or place where something began.
8. The act of setting something on fire.
9. The earliest stage of something. A point in time where something started.
10. The establishment of an institution or activity
– Amy Heydenrych, Qarnita Loxton, Pamela Power, Gail Schimmel – R299
Four strangers, two cities, one chance online meeting.
Jess is a yummy mummy of two whose life is slowly unravelling and who has recently separated from her husband. Ginger is a happily widowed granny with a salty tongue and a wicked sense of humour. The gorgeous and sensitive Matt is an almost-qualified psychologist, who still lives with his parents. And Queenie, a librarian from Cape Town, has an absent boyfriend and a secret writing habit.
What could these four strangers possibly have in common?
They are all die-hard Marian Keyes fans. And when they hear that Marian is due to visit South Africa to attend a literary festival, they are all desperate to meet her. Together they come up with a mad-cap plan. Will they succeed – or will life intervene?
– Quraisha Dawood –R290
At Summer Terrace flats in hot and humid Durban, the friendships between the women are as intricate as the curling patterns of henna tattoos.
Meet old Aunty Ruki, who lives with her domestic worker, Joyce, an arrangement that ruffles many feathers. There’s Zaina, who has her sights on becoming an architect, and her mother Rabia, a florist, and yes, she’s divorced. Zaina hides a secret that could cause a rift in their relationship: his name is Imraan, and dating him simply isn’t allowed.
Dive into this swirl of madams and maids, women and their husbands, children, grandchildren, and in-laws, a world bristling with life and vitality, amid judgements and forgiveness, secrets and lies, expectations and disappointments.
Prepare for a wedding, a theft, Ramadaan, and a passing, while delicious recipes for traditional cuisine add local spice to life at Summer Terrace.
