ChurchLink Winter 2017 Issue No. 60
UNIQUE ROLE OF OUR CHAPLAINS IN HOLISTIC CARE Since being appointed as Life Care’s Coordinating Chaplain in January this year, Paul Tyler has developed an even more powerful appreciation of the organisation’s Live Every Day culture and the central role of chaplaincy services. “My first 100 days in this role reminded me of the significant place of chaplaincy at the heart and soul of Life Care providing quality of life, meaning and purpose,” Paul explained. “We have an outstanding team of chaplains who are committed to our person centred focus on the well-being of Life Care’s community of residents, clients, families, staff members and volunteers. They bring a wealth of experience and dedication to their roles to deliver consistency in chaplaincy services.
Paul Tyler
“Chaplaincy is at the heart and soul of Life Care providing quality of life, meaning and purpose”
“We are grateful for the support of Chief Executive Officer, Allen Candy, and the leadership team at Life Care who understand the significant purpose and place of chaplaincy within the organisation.” As Coordinating Chaplain, Paul is based at Glenrose Court, Glen Osmond. Other members of the chaplaincy team are Sue Ind (Aldinga Beach Court, Aldinga Beach), Maureen Jennings (Reynella Lodge, Old Reynella), Deb Likouras (Roselin Court, Joslin), and Peter Bradley (Parkrose Village, Everard Park).
“We are also strongly focused on providing support for the families of those in Life Care’s community. This has included the creation of family support groups at our sites with each addressing different perspectives in the care of loved ones.
“A major challenge for all of us in the aged care sector is that many of our residents come to us in a frail state,” Paul said.
“Our chaplains are also playing a vital role as part of a team in facilitating best practice in dementia care of residents.
“Increasingly, the care that we are called upon to deliver is more palliative in nature. It is into this environment that chaplains are uniquely positioned to provide residents and their families with holistic care particularly toward the end of life.
“Another powerful expression of Life Care’s defining culture is the dedication and skills of our volunteers who inspire residents and their families to Live Every Day with meaning and purpose. In particular, many of our volunteers have a highly valued role in providing spiritual care.” For information on volunteering with Life Care, please call 1800 555 990.
263 Melbourne Street North Adelaide SA 5006
T (08) 8239 9800
W lifecare.org.au