Faircape Health Institute
ONRUS MANOR NEWSLETTER September 2026
FROM THE DESK OF THE HEALTHCARE MANAGER Dear Residents, Families, and Loved Ones, As we move well and truly through the winter season and begin looking forward to the promise of spring, I would like to take a moment to thank all our families for your continued support, trust, and involvement in the lives of your loved ones.
The health and wellbeing of our residents remain our highest priority. We continue to monitor health needs closely, encourage preventative wellness measures, and work together with residents, families, and healthcare professionals to maintain the highest standards of care.
Winter brings its own challenges, and I’m pleased to share that our residents have continued to show remarkable resilience and spirit throughout the colder months. Our dedicated healthcare and support teams remain committed to providing compassionate, person-centred care while ensuring the comfort, safety, and wellbeing of every resident.
Thank you for the kindness, encouragement, and partnership that you extend to our team. Your involvement plays a valuable role in creating a caring and supportive community for all who call our facility home.
We have enjoyed a variety of activities and social engagements during the season, helping residents stay active, connected, and engaged despite the colder weather. As the days gradually become warmer, we look forward to spending more time outdoors and embracing the opportunities that spring brings.
We look forward to the season ahead and to sharing many more special moments together. Warm regards,
Christelle du Plessis Healthcare Manager onrusnsm@faircapehealth.co.za
MEET OUR NEW HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATOR We are delighted to introduce Shannon, our Healthcare Administrator at Onrus Manor. Shannon joined Faircape Health Institute in February this year and has quickly become a valued member of our team. With several years of experience in the healthcare environment, she brings a true passion for supporting residents and their families with warmth, professionalism, and compassion. Shannon believes that quality healthcare is about building meaningful relationships, communicating openly, and ensuring that every resident and family member feels heard, respected, and well cared for. Her goal is to provide efficient, compassionate support and to help make every healthcare journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you have questions, need guidance, or are looking for assistance with any healthcare-related matter, Shannon is always happy to help. Outside of work, Shannon is a proud mom who treasures spending time with her family. She believes that family life
has taught her the importance of patience, kindness, and treating every person with dignity and respect. These are values that she brings into her role every day. Shannon is looking forward to getting to know our residents, families, and the wider Onrus Manor community while contributing to the exceptional standard of care for which our healthcare centre is known. Please join us in giving Shannon a warm Onrus Manor welcome!
QUALITY OF LIFE: MORE THAN MEETING PHYSICAL NEEDS At the heart of Occupational Therapy is the belief that every person, regardless of age or diagnosis, deserves opportunities to experience joy, purpose, belonging and meaningful moments.
themed parties, as they help to preserve familiar traditions, create opportunities for social interaction and provide moments of happiness that can be shared with family and friends.
Quality of life is often found in everyday experiences that bring comfort and connection. Sharing a meal with friends, listening to music, celebrating a special occasion or spending time with loved ones can all contribute to emotional wellbeing and help residents maintain a sense of identity and belonging.
This year, residents celebrated Valentine’s Day with a morning tea party, followed by a “Guess the Couples” competition using treasured photographs of residents from earlier years. The celebrations continued with a Happy Hour, where village volunteer Des Poole entertained everyone with familiar songs on his guitar. Residents, families and staff sang along, danced and enjoyed an afternoon filled with laughter and connection.
Throughout the year, we intentionally celebrate special occasions with our residents. These events are more than
Mother’s Day was celebrated with a comforting soup and sherry social, while Father’s Day brought residents together over a traditional beer and boerewors roll. On St Patrick’s Day, residents enjoyed themed trivia and bingo in the morning, followed by lively Irish folk music, dancing and delicious Shamrock Shakes in the afternoon. One particularly special milestone was the celebration of Mr and Mrs Niemand’s 60th wedding anniversary. The couple marked this beautiful occasion with a glass of champagne and treats in the courtyard, a beautiful reminder that love, commitment and life’s important milestones continue to be celebrated.
MR AND MRS NIEMAND’S 60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
For many residents, these occasions evoke treasured memories, encourage conversation and strengthen relationships. For those living with dementia; familiar music, traditions, food, and social connection can create positive emotions and meaningful experiences in the present moment. At Onrus Manor, we believe that quality of life is not only about adding years to life, but also about adding life to each day.
Did you know?
THE THERAPEUTIC VALUE OF COMMUNITY AND NATURE
Research has shown that spending time in nature and remaining connected to the community can reduce stress, improve mood and promote overall wellbeing in older adults.
Occupational therapy recognises that meaningful participation doesn’t only happen within the walls of a healthcare facility. Remaining connected to the wider community and experiencing the natural environment can have a powerful impact on a person’s wellbeing. These outings offer opportunities for choice, social interaction, sensory stimulation, reminiscence and simply enjoying life’s everyday pleasures. Every second Friday, we are privileged to make use of a specially adapted wheelchair-accessible bus that travels all the way from Tokai to Onrus Manor. This service enables residents who are wheelchair-bound to venture out into the community. An opportunity that many would otherwise not have. One of our favourite destinations is Whale Coast Mall, where residents enjoy browsing the shops, window shopping and stopping for tea or coffee at one of the cafés. For many, these outings recreate familiar routines they enjoyed for years and provide the simple pleasure of “getting out and about” like everyone else.
On other occasions, we head to the Hermanus Waterfront, where residents enjoy a leisurely stroll along the seafront. Familiar streets often spark memories and conversations about holidays, shopping trips or favourite restaurants from years gone by. Depending on the weather, we may treat ourselves to an ice cream on a warm day or enjoy tea, coffee and biscuits while taking in the sea air and keeping a lookout for whales. These outings engage all the senses: the sound of the waves, the fresh ocean breeze and the beauty of the coastline create a calming and uplifting experience that many residents treasure.
Our outing to Harold Porter National Botanical Garden in Betty’s Bay was another memorable experience. Wheelchairs were transported separately so that residents could comfortably explore the accessible pathways through the gardens, surrounded by indigenous plants, colourful flowers and mountain scenery. After the walk, everyone enjoyed a well-earned ice cream and refreshing drink before heading home.
Spending time in nature offers opportunities for relaxation, conversation and quiet reflection while encouraging residents to remain active within their abilities. Residents also enjoyed exploring the charming village of Greyton, where we discovered new surroundings before stopping at a local coffee shop for tea and cake. For many, simply visiting somewhere different sparked curiosity and conversation, reminding us that the desire for exploration and new experiences does not disappear with age.
One particularly special outing took place at Plaaskombuis, where family members joined residents for coffee and treats before enjoying a leisurely walk through the adjoining nursery. These shared experiences strengthen family connections and create opportunities to make new memories together. For many families, the outing provided a relaxed environment to spend quality time together outside the healthcare setting. At Onrus Manor, we believe that living well means continuing to experience the world beyond our doors. By supporting residents to access their community and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of nature, we help ensure that life remains rich with opportunity, connection and enjoyment.
Marijke Scrooby Occupational Therapist onrusot@faircapehealth.co.za
ALL THINGS NURSING Meet Our New Night Shift Leader We are delighted to welcome Sr Priscilla Gounder to the Onrus Manor Healthcare team as our new Night Shift Leader. Priscilla grew up in the coastal town of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, where she completed her schooling before pursuing her nursing training at Netcare in Durban. Her background is in theatre nursing, bringing with her a wealth of clinical experience and a commitment to delivering high-quality care. Outside of work, Priscilla enjoys spending time with her 13-year-old dog, her loyal adventure companion. She has a love for animals, the beach, and taking in beautiful sunsets. She always makes time for a little “vitamin sea.” Priscilla is passionate about caring for people and is excited to become part of the Hermanus community. She looks forward to dedicating her time, compassion, and experience to the residents of Onrus Manor and to getting to know their families and loved ones. Please join us in giving Sr Priscilla Gounder a very warm Onrus Manor welcome!
Sr. Elmarie Durand Shift Leader
A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP
onrushcc@faircapeonsite.co.za
Most of us know that sleep matters – but knowing it and actually achieving it consistently are two very different things. Sleep hygiene is the collection of habits and environmental choices that help your body settle into reliable, high-quality rest. The good news is that small, practical changes can make a significant difference.
Watch what you consume
Set a consistent sleep schedule
If you cannot sleep, don’t force it
Your body runs on an internal clock, and it functions best when you keep it regular. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day – yes, even over weekends. Consistency is the single most powerful sleep habit you can build.
Lying awake and willing yourself to sleep rarely works. If you have been awake for more than 20 minutes, get up and do something calm and low stimulation until you feel sleepy, then return to bed.
Wind down before you lie down
Avoid these common sleep saboteurs:
Give yourself 30 to 60 minutes to transition from the day. Dim the lights, step away from screens, and avoid intense conversations or work. Reading, gentle stretching, or a warm shower all signal to your body that it is time to slow down.
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Be mindful of light • •
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Get natural sunlight in the morning, as it sets your internal clock for the day. Avoid bright screens at night. The blue light from phones and laptops suppresses melatonin, the hormone that makes you sleepy. Opt for warm, orange-toned lighting in the evening instead.
Create a sleep-friendly bedroom Cool (around 16 to 20°C), dark, and quiet is the ideal combination. Adjust to your personal preference, but temperature in particular has a surprisingly significant effect on sleep quality.
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Limit caffeine after early afternoon Avoid intense exercise close to bedtime Be cautious with alcohol. It may help you fall asleep, but it significantly disrupts sleep quality through the night
Doom-scrolling in bed Irregular sleep times Long daytime naps Alcohol as a sleep aid
Still struggling? If sleep difficulties are persistent, it may be worth speaking to a healthcare professional. Insomnia, anxiety, and other underlying conditions are more common than people realise, and more treatable than many expect.
10 THINGS I WISH MY FAMILY KNEW ABOUT LIVING IN FRAIL CARE
Liesl de Kock Social Worker socialworker1@faircapehealth.co.za
A resident’s perspective 1. I still want to make my own choices Even if I need help dressing, bathing, or walking, I still want to make decisions about my daily life. Let me choose what clothes I’d like to wear, whether I’d like to join an activity, or what I’d like to eat. Maintaining independence, even in small ways, helps preserve my dignity, confidence, and sense of identity. 2. Your visits matter more than you realise You don’t have to plan elaborate outings or bring expensive gifts. Simply sitting with me, sharing a cup of tea, telling me about your day or about my grandchildren, looking through old photographs, or holding my hand can brighten my entire day. Your presence reminds me that I am still loved, valued, and an important part of your life. 3. I am more than my diagnosis Whether I live with dementia, Parkinson’s disease, or physical frailty, these conditions do not define who I am. I am still the parent who raised you, the spouse who loves you, the grandparent who spoilt the grandchildren, the friend who loved to laugh, the gardener, the teacher, and the baker. Please continue to see the whole person, not just my illness. 4. I still want to feel useful Having someone do everything for me can sometimes leave me feeling as though I’ve lost my purpose. If I can water plants, feed the birds, pour someone a glass of water, or encourage another resident, let me. Feeling useful reminds me that I still have something valuable to offer. 5. My world has become smaller, but my need for connection hasn’t As mobility decreases and friends pass away, opportunities for social interaction become fewer. A phone call, a video message from the grandchildren, a handwritten note, or hearing about everyday family life helps me feel connected to the people I love.
6. Some days are harder than others There may be days when I feel confused, tired, anxious, or frustrated. My emotions may change quickly. Please don’t take it personally if I seem withdrawn or upset. Meet me where I am that day, with patience and understanding. Tomorrow may be completely different. 7. Please don’t treat me like a child I may need more help than I once did, but I am still an adult with a lifetime of experiences, wisdom, and opinions. Sometimes, when people begin speaking for me, making decisions without including me, or using a childish tone of voice, it can leave me feeling invisible or diminished. Please continue to speak to me, not about me, even if someone else is helping with my care. Needing assistance does not mean I have lost my dignity or my voice. 8. Please allow me my little pleasures I know a glass of wine or an extra helping of pudding may not be considered the healthiest choices, but I have already lost many of the freedoms I once enjoyed. Sometimes, these small pleasures bring comfort, familiarity, and joy to my day. 9. I still need your patience You may need to repeat yourself. I may tell you the same story more than once or move more slowly than I used to. Please remember that I am not trying to be difficult. I am doing the very best I can with the abilities I have today. Your patience gives me confidence instead of embarrassment, and reassurance instead of fear. 10. Love me for who I am today You may miss the person I used to be, but I’m still here. I still smile, laugh, enjoy music, appreciate kindness, and treasure time with the people I love. While my abilities may have changed, my need to feel loved, respected, and accepted has not.
FAIRCAPE Health Institute
DEMENTIA SUPPORT GROUP For families with a loved one living with Dementia Onrus This group offers a supportive space to share experiences, ideas, and strategies for navigating life with a loved one who has dementia. We aim to enhance your understanding of dementia, explore effective coping approaches, and foster meaningful connections with others facing similar challenges.
Dates for 2026 • • •
Friday 25 September, 10h00 - 11h00 Friday 30 October, 10h00 - 11h00 Friday 27 November, 10h00 - 11h00 (Final Group)
How do I sign up for this group? Send us an email today!
Liesl de Kock: Bridgewater and Onrus Social Worker (socialworker1@faircapehealth.co.za or 060 9977 346) To join, email one of the facilitators who will confirm your attendance.
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Please do not hesitate to contact Faircape Health Institute Onrus for more information: onrusreceptionist@faircapehealth.co.za or 028 316 5001 27 Chanteclair Ave, Onrusrivier, 7201 Stay In Touch | @faircapehealthinstitute