FROM THE DESK OF THE HEALTHCARE MANAGER
Dear Residents, Families and Friends,
Change is rarely comfortable. It stretches us, tests systems, and challenges patience, yet it is also where growth begins.
Since October 2025, Faircape Health Somerset West has been in a season of expansion and transformation. What began as plans on paper quickly became drilling, angle grinding, movement, adjustments, and many months of coordinated effort. There were moments of disruption, and it has been a demanding journey, yet we have made it through.
Today, as the expansion stands completed, we look around with a sense of pride, not only in the physical growth of our facility but also in the resilience of our community. A huge thank you to every resident who adapted with patience, every family who extended understanding, and every staff member who continued to deliver care consistently despite construction noise, temporary relocations, and changing routines.
Resilience is not loud but rather a quiet strength. It is choosing stability in the midst of uncertainty, and it is continuing to show up for one another even when circumstances shift.
Faircape Health Somerset West has grown, but what has remained unchanged is our commitment to safe, dignified, person-centred care. Clinical excellence has remained constant, quality oversight and interdisciplinary collaboration have continued without compromise, and standards did not lower because we were building. If anything, they strengthened.
This expansion is more than additional space. It represents investment in sustainability, in comfort, and in the long-term future of this community. It allows us to serve more residents while maintaining the quality environment that families expect and residents deserve.
There is something remarkable about reaching the other side of a challenging chapter. There is gratitude in knowing that what felt overwhelming at times is now complete. There is also a satisfaction in hearing residents express happiness in their new surroundings and families remark on the improvements.
To our residents, thank you for your grace and adaptability. To our families, thank you for your trust and patience. To our staff, thank you for your unwavering professionalism and heart.
Faircape Health Somerset West stands stronger today because of this collective resilience. As we move into this new quarter, we do so with renewed energy and confidence. The dust has settled, and we continue providing care with warmth, stability, and excellence.
Change tested us. Adaptation shaped us. Resilience carried us. And together, we celebrate what we have built.
Dane Nagel Healthcare Manager hcmanagernorth@faircapehealth.co.za
NEWS FROM OUR DOCTORS
In caring for older adults, I am often reminded that medicine is not only about treatment. It is about understanding where someone is in their health journey and ensuring that care aligns with their values, wishes, and quality of life.
One area that is frequently misunderstood is the difference between living with a chronic illness, receiving palliative care, and entering end-of-life care. These terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but they are not the same.
A chronic illness refers to a long-term medical condition that may be managed over many years. Conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, chronic lung disease, Parkinson’s disease, or dementia fall into this category. Many residents live meaningful and fulfilling lives while managing one or more chronic illnesses, and treatment in this stage focuses on stabilising health, preventing complications, and maintaining independence and comfort for as long as possible.
Palliative care, by contrast, is not limited to the very end of life. It can be introduced at any stage of a serious illness. The goal of palliative care is to improve quality of life by managing symptoms such as pain, breathlessness, nausea, anxiety, or fatigue. It may be provided alongside active treatment, and the focus shifts slightly from curing disease to enhancing comfort and supporting emotional and psychological well-being. Palliative care is about living as well as possible for as long as possible.
End-of-life care is more specific. It refers to the final phase of life when a person’s body is naturally declining and the priority becomes comfort, dignity, and peaceful support. At this stage, treatment decisions are carefully considered to avoid unnecessary interventions that may not add benefit or may cause discomfort. The emphasis becomes relief of symptoms, presence of loved ones, and respecting the natural process of dying with compassion and dignity.
Understanding these distinctions allows families and residents to make informed decisions about care preferences. It also brings me to the Advanced Directive, an important and often avoided topic.
An Advanced Directive is a written document that records your wishes regarding medical treatment should you become unable to communicate those wishes yourself. It may include decisions about resuscitation, hospital transfers, life-prolonging treatments, artificial feeding, or other interventions. It can also include the appointment of a healthcare proxy (someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if needed).
Completing an Advanced Directive does not mean that something is wrong, nor is it about giving up. It is about clarity, dignity, and autonomy. It ensures that your voice is heard even if you cannot speak. It also provides enormous relief to families, who otherwise may be placed in the difficult position of guessing what you would have wanted during emotionally stressful moments.
In my experience, the most peaceful and supported end-oflife journeys are those where conversations have happened early and clearly. I would like to encourage residents and families to consider having these discussions.
I am available to meet with you to talk through your values, answer questions, and assist in completing an Advanced Directive should you wish to do so. These conversations are handled with sensitivity, confidentiality, and respect.
Medicine is not only about prolonging life but also about protecting quality of life. It is about aligning care with what matters most to you. If you would like to schedule a discussion, please contact the nursing team and we will gladly arrange a time.
Dr Nicole Jacka Faircape Health Doctor (GP) northdoctor@faircapemedical.co.za
MEET YOUR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY TEAM AT HERITAGE
Occupational therapy at Faircape Health Heritage plays a crucial role in helping residents maintain their independence, improve daily living skills, and enhance their overall quality of life through personalised and meaningful activities.
A FEAST-IVE CHRISTMAS LUNCH
Residents enjoyed their annual Christmas lunch together with family and friends. The event created much anticipation, with everyone dressing in their best attire for the special occasion. A stunning three-course meal was enjoyed by all, complemented by live entertainment that added to the festive atmosphere.
Coming together once a year in this way is especially important, as it creates lasting memories for our residents and assists in making them feel valued and connected.
GARDENING
FOR SENSORY REGULATION
We participated in gardening sessions using pot plants, an activity that engages all the senses while accommodating our residents’ mobility needs. It allows safe and comfortable participation, with residents touching the soil, seeing the plants, smelling fresh flowers, and enjoying the calming outdoor environment. The activity also promotes fine motor skills without physical strain.
Sensory regulation is especially important for people living with dementia, as it helps reduce anxiety and agitation and provides grounding experiences supporting a calm and balanced nervous system.
SPECIAL OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY EVENTS
Special events bring joy and excitement to Faircape Health Somerset West, creating treasured moments for residents and adding excitement to their monthly calendar. Remembering birthdays with cheerful celebratory teas provides the opportunity for reminiscence and storytelling. Public holiday celebrations such as Heritage Day bring everyone together to honour cultural diversity and encourage social interaction.
These special events reduce feelings of isolation, ensuring Faircape Health Somerset West creates a sense of belonging.
ALL THINGS NURSING
Carmen van der Vyver Occupational Therapist heritageot@faircapehealth.co.za
THE NURSING RECOGNITION PROGRAMME CELEBRATING OUR NURSING TEAM
As part of our Nursing Recognition Programme, we intentionally create monthly moments to allow our nursing teams to pause, breathe, and step away briefly from the demands of their clinical responsibilities.
In February, in celebration of Valentine’s Day, we took the opportunity to send heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to an exceptional and dedicated team of nurses. Their compassion, professionalism, resilience, and unwavering commitment to patient care do not go unnoticed. The kindness they extend to patients and families each day reflects the true spirit of nursing.
With appreciation and respect, we say a sincere and heartfelt thank you. We are proud of you, we value you, and we celebrate you.
HOW TO KEEP YOUR BRAIN SHARP AT ANY AGE
How to Keep Your Brain Sharp at Any Age
At Faircape Health, we strive to promote lifelong cognitive wellbeing through holistic care. As the nursing team, we believe that healthy ageing is about supporting the whole person and not just managing an illness.
Brain health plays a vital role in independence, confidence, and quality of life, and research shows it can be nurtured at any age through simple, consistent habits. The encouraging news is that small everyday choices, supported by a caring environment, can help the brain remain active, adaptable and resilient throughout life.
Here are a few points to help achieve this:
1. Staying Curious: The Power of Mental Engagement
Curiosity keeps the mind engaged and the brain adaptable. The brain thrives when it is gently challenged. Learning new things helps strengthen neural connections and supports memory and problem-solving skills.
This doesn’t require formal study or complex tasks. Reading, engaging in conversation, trying a new activity or revisiting a favourite hobby all stimulate the brain.
2. Movement as Medicine for the Mind
When the body moves, the brain benefits. Physical movement is essential not only for physical strength but also for brain health. Regular activity improves blood flow to the brain and supports focus, memory, and emotional well-being.
Gentle, guided movement, such as walking, stretching, or balance exercises, can be highly effective when practised consistently. A supportive care environment encourages safe movement that respects individual ability and comfort.
3. Rest and Routine: Why Sleep Matters
Quality sleep plays a crucial role in memory, concentration, and emotional regulation. During sleep, the brain processes information and restores itself. Consistent routines and a calm, supportive environment help promote better sleep, an important part of holistic care and overall well-being.
4. Connection and Community
Connection supports not only emotional health but also cognitive strength. Social interaction is a powerful contributor to brain health. Meaningful connection stimulates multiple areas of the brain and supports emotional resilience.
At Faircape, community, shared experiences, and positive relationships form an essential part of caring for cognitive and emotional wellbeing.
5. Nourishing the Brain Through Balanced Nutrition
The brain depends on good nutrition to function well. A balanced, varied diet supports mental clarity and longterm cognitive health. Rather than focusing on restriction, promote nourishment, enjoyment and balance and recognise that food supports both physical health and quality of life.
6. A Holistic Approach to Brain Health
Healthy ageing is about supporting the whole person: mind, body and spirit. Brain health is not shaped by one habit alone, but by the combination of movement, connection, purpose, rest and compassionate care.
Supporting cognitive wellbeing means respecting individuality, promoting independence and creating environments where people can continue to thrive at any age.
Sr Karin Louwrens Senior Nursing Services Manager groupnsm@faircapehealth.co.za
CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY
Our nursing team and carers brought warmth and joy to the facility as we celebrated Valentine’s Day together. The day was filled with small gestures of kindness, shared laughter, and thoughtful decorations that brightened both the environment and our patients’ spirits.
It was heartwarming to see staff working side by side to create a cheerful atmosphere, reminding everyone that compassion is at the heart of what we do. Celebrating together not only uplifted our residents but also strengthened the bond within our team, highlighting the love, dedication, and teamwork that define our daily care.
NEWS FROM OUR SOCIAL WORKERS
Understanding Frontotemporal Dementia: What You Need to Know
Getting older brings many changes, but not every shift in behaviour or language is ageing. One condition that’s helpful to know about is Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). While the name may sound intimidating, learning about it gives you the tools to recognise early signs, plan ahead, and face the future with confidence.
What is Frontotemporal Dementia?
FTD is a condition that affects certain areas of the brain responsible for behaviour, social skills, and language. Unlike some other dementias, it often appears in people under the age of 65, so awareness is key. Knowing what to look out for can help you or your loved ones respond with understanding, not frustration.
Three Faces of FTD:
FTD can show up in different ways, but researchers have identified three main types:
1. Behavioral Variant FTD (bvFTD)
This type mainly affects personality and behaviour. Changes might include reduced interest in hobbies, less social interaction, or saying things that seem out of character. The person may not realise these changes themselves, which can sometimes lead to misdiagnosis as a mental health issue.
2. Non-Fluent Primary Progressive Aphasia (nfvPPA)
Here, speech becomes the focus, and you might notice slow or halting speech and sentences that are harder to form correctly. Early signs often include difficulty finding the right words.
3. Semantic Variant Primary Progressive Aphasia (svPPA)
This type affects understanding of words and objects, and people may forget the names of familiar faces, places, or everyday items. Speech may still sound fluent, but comprehension gradually declines.
Why Understanding FTD Helps
Learning about FTD helps families and friends see that behavioural and language changes are about the brain, not the person. This perspective can reduce stress, improve communication, and make caregiving or everyday interactions more compassionate.
Early Awareness Makes a Difference
Knowing the signs means you can have important conversations about future planning, including medical care, finances, and personal wishes, before challenges arise. While there is no cure yet, awareness helps families manage symptoms and maintain quality of life for as long as possible.
Tips for Daily Life
Even if FTD feels overwhelming to think about, there are positive steps you can take today to maintain brain health and strengthen relationships. These include:
• Stay socially active: regular contact with friends, family, or community groups keeps the brain engaged.
• Keep your mind sharp: reading, puzzles, learning a new hobby, or even gentle brain games help maintain cognitive function.
• Practise healthy habits: a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep support overall brain health.
• Communicate openly: discuss your wishes, plans, and concerns with loved ones while you can.
• Stay informed: understanding conditions like FTD helps you make proactive choices for yourself and your family.
A Positive Perspective
Being informed about FTD is empowering. It allows you to respond thoughtfully, plan ahead, and keep relationships strong. By understanding the condition, you can approach life with clarity, compassion, and optimism, because preparation and knowledge are always empowering.
What to Do if You Notice Signs of FTD
If you or someone you care about is showing changes that seem unusual, such as shifts in personality, reduced social awareness, or new difficulties with language, it’s important not to ignore these signs. While it can feel worrying, taking action early makes a meaningful difference.
The first step is to seek a formal medical assessment. FTD can only be diagnosed through a thorough evaluation, which usually includes cognitive testing, brain imaging, and a detailed medical history.
The professionals who diagnose FTD are:
• Psychiatrists, especially those experienced in older adult mental health or neurocognitive disorders.
• Neurologists are specialists in brain and nervous system conditions.
• Geriatricians are doctors who focus on the health of older adults.
A formal diagnosis helps families understand what is happening, access the right support, and plan ahead. It can also prevent misdiagnosis, which is common with FTD, especially if symptoms are mistaken for depression, stress, or other psychiatric conditions.
Angelique Oosthuizen Social Worker socialworker2@faircapehealth.co.za
Support group dates 2026
Time: 10h00 - 11h30
Place: Heritage Manor Boardroom
Please reach out to Angelique Oosthuizen if you would like to join
socialworker2@faircapehealth co za/
Dementia Support Group
We are hosting a monthly support group for families who have a loved one living with dementia This group offers a welcoming space to share your experiences, exchange ideas and strategies and support one another through this unique phase of life. It also provides an opportunity to deepen your understanding of dementia and explore new ways of coping with the challenges faced by both you and your loved one By connecting with others who share similar experiences, you can find encouragement, understanding and a sense of community on this journey
Aim of the group
The aim of the group is to provide a safe and supportive space where spouses and family members, whether caring for a loved one at home or whose loved one is in a residential facility, can share their experiences, express their challenges and receive understanding in a non-judgmental and caring environment.
Who Can Join
The group is open to families who have a loved one living with dementia, whether they are cared for at home or in a residential facility
Frequency
The support group meets once a month
How do I sign up for this group?
Please take a moment to rate us on Google. We appreciate your feedback!
Simply scan the QR code. If you are unsure how to scan a QR code, please ask a staff member to assist you.