Local aged care residents make a clean sweep

Residents at McLean Care can hardly contain themselves after making what you would call a clean sweep at the local agricultural show in Inverell. On March 1st -3rd several ladies participated in the Agricultural show and shared their artistic talents.

The residents from McLean Care, Inverell were placed into the Aged Care and Person with Special Needs category and came out winners. Marie O’Brien won 1st and 2nd place for her crafted tea towel and hanger for ‘Kitchen, Bathroom, Bedroom’ category. Maria Eden won two 1st places in her categories for her handmade croquet and rugs. Her amazing craftsmanship blew the judges away. Nancy Tome also won in her division in the Fine Arts category. Nancy’s artwork consisted of wool dipped into coloured ink to make a beautiful artwork.

Along with individual winnings, in the Open Section the group of residents submitted several artworks and won 1 st place for their magnificent recycled fish. These fish were made entirely out of recycled objects and where sculptured to create three fish. Objects such as old CD’s
were used to create the scales on the fishes body, emphasising the resident’s creativity. They also received a 2nd place for coloured pinecones that were framed for all to see.

The ladies have participated in this event each year and with the support of their coordinator of art and craft, Jannine Ball, it’s obvious they are making good use of their weekly lessons. “Even at their age it’s lovely to see their commitment and sense of pride in their work” said Jannine . Each lesson the residents are learning new techniques and can enjoy themselves in
an active manner.”

Clinical research has demonstrated that the arts are believed to improve cognition and can assist older adults to reduce depression and anxiety plus assisting those with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. McLean Care are proud of these ladies and their accomplishments, eagerness to learn new techniques and skills plus getting into the love of creating. For further information or interview contact Jannine Ball, Leisure and lifestyle team leader,
McLean Care®, on 1300 791 660