Faircape Health Institute
NOORDHOEK MANOR NEWSLETTER September 2026
FROM THE DESK OF THE HEALTHCARE MANAGER Dear Residents, Families, and Loved Ones, I joined Faircape Health Institute in May as Healthcare Operations Coordinator, working across our three healthcare facilities in the Southern Suburbs. While Leanne, our Healthcare Manager, enjoys maternity leave, I am overseeing her responsibilities and supporting the team to ensure continuity across our facilities. My background is in Occupational Therapy, and I’m passionate about healthcare management and creating environments that enable people to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives. The past few months have also been filled with opportunities for connection, purpose and plenty of enjoyment. A few particularly special occasions include a visit from a local crèche, Mandela Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and
other seasonal celebrations. Each of these has created opportunities to reminisce and spend time together, while our famed Staff Talent Show brought a great deal of laughter and friendly competition. We are also so excited to introduce our new Healthcare coffee shop – a welcoming social hub for residents, families, visitors and staff to meet, connect and enjoy time together. Exceptional care encompasses so much more than meeting clinical needs. It’s about creating a community where people feel known, valued and connected. I look forward to the months ahead.
Zaskia Ezendam Healthcare Operations Coordinator hcmanagersouth@faircapehealth.co.za
NEWS FROM OUR DOCTORS One challenge we frequently encounter in long-term care is that residents arrive with an impressive medication list accumulated over many years. Each drug may have had a good indication when it was started, but the clinical context changes as people become older and frailer. Therefore, our medical reviews involve more than simply continuing chronic prescriptions. We regularly ask: Does this medication still have a meaningful benefit for this particular resident? Could it be contributing to falls, postural hypotension, drowsiness, confusion, renal impairment or poor appetite? Is tight BP or diabetic control still appropriate? And does the likely “time to benefit” from preventative medication match the person’s current health and goals of care? This approach is increasingly supported by the evidence. A 2026 systematic review of medication review and deprescribing in long-term care facilities found reductions in both overall medication burden and potentially inappropriate medication use, without a significant increase in hospitalisation or mortality. De-prescribing does not mean “stopping everything”. Anticoagulation, diabetic medication, antihypertensives
and other treatments may remain extremely important. Rather, it means regularly reconsidering the balance between benefit and burden for the individual resident. This is particularly relevant in long-term care, where our goals extend beyond disease targets. Maintaining mobility, cognition, comfort and independence, and avoiding preventable adverse effects and hospital transfers may ultimately matter more to a frail resident than achieving a textbook BP, HbA1c or cholesterol result. The best medication list is therefore not necessarily the longest one. It’s the one that still makes sense for the person taking it.
By Dr Nicci Snyders Family Physician tokaidoctor1@faircapemedical.co.za
NEW TO THE MEDICAL TEAM We are also pleased to welcome Dr Amina Vallie to the long-term care medical team. Dr Vallie will care for residents at Tokai, CDC and Noordhoek Villages and Frail Cares. We look forward to having her as part of the team and to the additional continuity and medical support this will provide to residents, families and nursing staff. Dr Amina Vallie graduated from the University of Cape Town (UCT) and completed her two-year internship at Groote Schuur Hospital, followed by a year of community service in primary healthcare. She has experience across various areas of medicine, including emergency medicine and internal medicine. She holds a Diploma in Primary Emergency Care and has completed additional courses in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS), Paediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), as well as Management of Skin Disorders in Primary Care. Before joining Faircape, Dr Vallie spent the past two and a half years working in Internal Medicine at Karl Bremer Hospital, further developing her clinical expertise and passion for comprehensive patient care. Her particular area of interest is Internal Medicine, where she enjoys caring for patients holistically and supporting their health and wellbeing.
INTERGENERATIONAL CONNECTIONS There was great excitement at Noordhoek Manor as we welcomed a group of children from a local crèche for a special intergenerational visit. The morning was filled with laughter, songs, and shared activities as young and old spent quality time together. Our residents delighted in interacting with the children, whose energy and infectious smiles brought warmth to every room. One resident had the special opportunity to read a short story to the children — a heartwarming moment that brought great joy and pride to everyone present. Intergenerational programmes offer far-reaching benefits for older adults, particularly those living with dementia. Interacting with children can encourage communication, evoke positive emotions, stimulate memories of family life, and provide a renewed sense of purpose.
MANDELA DAY: GIVING BACK In celebration of Mandela Day, our residents embodied the spirit of service by preparing sandwiches for New Living Hope, a local non-profit organisation in Retreat. The sandwiches supported their Clean the Park initiative, where approximately 70 children received a meal after participating in the community event. The session was far more than simply preparing food. Residents worked together to butter bread, assemble sandwiches, and package them with care — using familiar skills, promoting social interaction, and experiencing the satisfaction of helping others. Seeing residents take pride in their work, knowing their efforts would bring nourishment and joy to local children, made this Mandela Day especially meaningful.
CELEBRATING OUR MOTHERS & FATHERS Over the past few months, we had the privilege of celebrating both Mother’s Day and Father’s Day with our wonderful residents, taking time to honour the love and wisdom they have shared throughout their lives. For Mother’s Day, our ladies enjoyed a relaxing pampering morning – feet gently soaked, warm conversation shared, and a beautiful rose presented to each mother as a token of appreciation. Our Father’s Day celebration was equally special. The gentlemen gathered for a relaxed afternoon of delicious snacks and warm fellowship, each receiving a pair of socks as a practical token of gratitude for their strength and dedication.
CELEBRATING SPECIAL OCCASIONS Throughout the quarter, our residents enjoyed celebrating Valentine’s Day, St Patrick’s Day, and Easter. From themed decorations and festive treats to engaging activities and group celebrations, each event brought colour, laughter, and a sense of occasion to our home. Seasonal events help residents remain connected to the world around them, creating opportunities to reminisce about family traditions, share stories, and enjoy familiar customs. For individuals living with dementia, celebrating holidays plays an important role in supporting orientation. Recognising seasons and familiar traditions reinforces the passage of time and helps residents remain connected to the calendar year. By embracing these special celebrations together, we continue to create an environment where every season brings new opportunities for connection and cherished memories.
STAFF FUN IN TALENT SHOW THE SUN Laughter, music, and applause filled the hall as our staff took to the stage for a special Talent Show organised for our residents. From singing and dancing to entertaining performances, our team put on a wonderful show that brought smiles to many faces. The event was an opportunity for residents and staff to connect in a different way. Seeing familiar caregivers step into the spotlight encouraged conversation, laughter, and shared memories. One highlight was the residents’ enthusiastic involvement as judges. Armed with voting cards, they eagerly gave each performance a thumbs up or thumbs down. It sparked friendly competition and plenty of laughter. Encouraging residents to actively participate, rather than simply observe, promotes confidence, supports decision-making, and creates a sense of purpose and inclusion. A heartfelt thank you to every staff member who stepped out of their comfort zone to make the afternoon such a memorable success.
WHEN IT MATTERS MOST, OUR TEAM RISES TO THE OCCASION Exactly one year after successfully managing an emergency evacuation on Freedom Day 2025, our Noordhoek Manor team was called into action once again. On the evening of 6 April 2026, smoke was detected coming from the server room and began spreading into nearby corridors. Thanks to the swift vigilance of our staff, the situation was identified early. What followed was a calm, coordinated, and deeply professional response. Carers Nombuso and Rochelle acted immediately. While notifying security, they simultaneously mobilised their teams and began a structured evacuation, keeping one priority front of mind throughout: the safety, comfort, and reassurance of every resident. Support structures activated without delay. The Nursing Services Manager alerted senior staff, additional assistance arrived quickly, and emergency services were already onsite by the time leadership reached the building.
their side. It was a small gesture, but one that spoke volumes about the culture of care within our community. Once the situation was fully contained and all safety checks completed, residents were calmly guided back to their rooms. The affected area was efficiently secured, preventing any further risk. We are grateful to report that there were no injuries or casualties, and at no point was the safety of the healthcare centre compromised. This incident is a powerful reminder of what preparedness, teamwork, and decisive leadership look like in practice.
Sr. Sheryl Hightree Senior Shift Leader noordhoeksnrshiftleader1@faircapeonsite.co.za
Residents were safely escorted to a warm, secure area and offered tea and coffee while staff remained attentively by
FAIRCAPE HEALTH PHARMACY TOKAI: HERE WHEN YOU NEED US Our pharmacy at Faircape Health Institute Tokai is here for everyone, not just our healthcare residents. Whether you are a village resident, a family member visiting a loved one, or simply looking for a convenient, professional pharmacy close to home, Faircape Health Pharmacy Tokai is open to you. Our services include chronic and acute medication dispensing, blister packing for simpler daily medication management, prescription transfers, specialised product ordering, and personalised pharmaceutical advice. We offer free delivery to Tokai Estate, Clé du Cap, and Noordhoek Manor.
YOUR PHARMACIST: AN IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM As we get older, managing our health can become more complicated. Many long-term care residents take several medicines each day, often prescribed by different healthcare professionals. Keeping track of what each medicine is for, when it should be taken, and how medicines work together can feel overwhelming. This is where your pharmacist plays an important role – not only in dispensing medication but also in advising on medicines, identifying potential problems, and working alongside your wider healthcare team.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR MEDICINES If you are unsure about a medicine, please don’t be afraid to ask. Your pharmacist can help with questions such as: • What is this medicine for and how should I take it? • What side effects should I look out for? • Are there any medicines or supplements I should avoid? There are no silly questions when it comes to your health.
DON’T FORGET OVER-THE-COUNTER PRODUCTS
TAKING MULTIPLE MEDICINES
Always mention vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter remedies to your healthcare team. Even products purchased without a prescription can sometimes interact with other medicines.
The more medicines a person takes, the more important it becomes to review them regularly. A medication review helps ensure your medicines remain appropriate and that you are getting the best possible benefit from your treatment. It doesn’t necessarily mean stopping medicines.
Never stop or change a prescribed medicine without first speaking to your doctor or pharmacist. Your questions are important, and your pharmacist is there to help.
Frances Knoetze Responsible Pharmacist pharmacist@tokaihealthpharmacy.co.za
NEW SOCIAL WORKER: KELLY HART A warm hello to the residents of Noordhoek Manor! I am delighted to introduce myself as the new Social Worker supporting the wonderful communities of Clé du Cap, Noordhoek Manor and Tokai Estate. Born and raised in Cape Town, I completed my Bachelor of Social Work at the University of Cape Town. My career in social work began primarily within the field of child protection, where I had the opportunity to work closely with children and families and support them through a variety of difficult and complex circumstances. While this experience has shaped my practice considerably, I have always had a strong interest in working with older adults, and I am passionate about the unique and meaningful aspects of geriatric social work. I’m looking forward to getting to know each community, hearing your stories and becoming a familiar and approachable face. Whether it’s offering support during a challenging period, assisting with family dynamics and transitions, or having a conversation and a cup of coffee, I hope to be a source of support to residents and their loved ones. When I am not working, you will most likely find me spending time with family and friends, enjoying a good cup of coffee, or keeping active through running. I love being outdoors and making the most of the beautiful Cape Town surroundings. I am excited for this new chapter and look forward to meeting you all and becoming part of the Clé du Cap, Noordhoek Manor and Tokai Estate communities. Here’s to getting to know one another and building meaningful connections along the way!
Kelly Hart Social Worker socialworker3@faircapehealth.co.za
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 Noordhoek 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 • • •
Thursday 1 October Thursday 5 November Thursday 3 December (Final Group)
How do I sign up for this group? Send us an email today!
Kelly Hart: Clé du Cap, Noordhoek and Tokai Long Term Social Worker (socialworker3@faircapehealth.co.za) 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 Noordhoek for more information: noordhoekhcreceptionist@faircapehealth.co.za or 021 787 0100 Cnr Paddock & Emerald Dr, Noordhoek, Cape Town, 7979 Stay In Touch | @FaircapeHealthInstitute
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