When Grace Dorset came to Huntleigh Home for a week of respite care in January, she was already familiar with the place and its people.
Grace started attending Huntleigh Home’s day programme in 2017 after moving from her home in Rotorua to live with her daughter Karamea and granddaughter Savannah.
Karamea and Savannah both work full-time, so they needed somewhere Grace could spend time during the day.
Karamea says she and her daughter wanted somewhere they felt Grace would feel comfortable, would be well looked after by caring people, and have a wide variety of activities to do during the week.
“She’s happy going there, people know her and from the photos Huntleigh Home regularly send me, I see her really enjoying her time there and participating in the varied activities that are arranged,” Karamea says.
“I now have a whole folder of photos that I can also show mum to remind her of what she’s done during the week,” Karamea says.
By January this year, Karamea says she and Savannah were need of a break themselves, and they felt comfortable booking Grace into Huntleigh Home for a week of respite care.
“Grace was easily able to make the transition from being there during the day to staying for respite with ease as she already knew the staff, the other residents, and was familiar with the building.”
She adds that she is very happy with the care provided by staff at the rest home, especially recreation team leader Annelize Steyn.
“Mum has connected with Annelize, particularly because of their shared South African heritage – I appreciate the personal touch from her.”
Karamea and Savannah also got to participate in an essential oils workshop at Huntleigh Home with Grace just before Christmas.
To learn more about Huntleigh Home and Apartments call 04 464 2020.
