The secret to a LONG life?
On Friday 20th April at BlueCross Broughtonlea in Surrey Hills, Victoria it was the day to find out. Mary Clonan from Templestowe is turning 101 this year and says “I take things as they come, there is no point in worrying”.
Wise words from a woman who has lived through two world wars and a life without depending on computers, an iPad or phone apps!
Mary Clonan celebrated with six other centenarians, including Marjorie at 106, at the special BlueCross birthday bash. Mary has brought up 10 children and now with 21 grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren, she says “I have always been busy with children so now I want to be free to do whatever I want and be able to change my mind if I want to.” At 100years old we’d say she’s earnt it.
They all shared their day with over 40 other BlueCross residents who are all 97 years young and over. Who needs to wait until the rounded off 100 to enjoy some attention, delicious birthday cake and a bit of fun!
No doubt when they come together they all share a few remarkable life stories and often a history lesson or two on events that would ultimately shape our lives today.
This event is held by BlueCross Community & Residential Services to celebrate ‘ageing positively’ and demonstrating a new way of providing aged care that keeps our elderly citizens active and enjoying life.
On any given day over 200,000 Australians live in residential care (2009/10 Report on the Operation of the Aged Care Act 1997).
Carol Allen, Blue Cross CEO says, “There are times within my work at BlueCross when I find myself in awe of the remarkable elderly people who live at our residences. During the celebrations I hear many wonderful stories of lives well lived, of families and tradition, and experiences to bring a smile to my face.”
“Too often the stories we hear about elderly people are of those who have received ill treatment or withering away out of sight and out of mind. We are determined to change this story through innovative programs that are challenging the way aged care is delivered. Our birthday bash paints a very different picture”, says Ms Allen.
|
