I have been a resident here for two years and on arrival I was assured that this was my home. 

Over the time this has become my home.

All the staff, from administration to cleaners and maintenance staff, treat us that way.

The atmosphere is a very happy one.

The activities are very varied, starting off daily with exercises to get the old joints moving.

We have a daily bulletin so we can all see what is going on.

On Monday we have hearing aid checks run by volunteers, while there are sewing ladies who mend and repair residents’ clothing, they also label all the huge amount of labelling for the laundry.

All of these services are free.

At 10.30am out comes the Scrabble for anyone to join in.

Our amazing resident activities officers work tirelessly every day for our amusement.

In the afternoon we have Chaplain’s Chat by George, one of the team of Geoff and Joanna, part of our pastoral caring team, who work tirelessly to visit those in need.

Following the chat, there is a whiteboard game with residents listing words derived from the title of the talk.

On Tuesday, we have choir practice and also play dominos.

The popular bingo is held with chocolates galore as prizes in the afternoon.

Hairdressing is available on Wednesday and Thursday and the library trolley is taken to all rooms.

There is display of scarves and jewellery, where one can buy at leisure.

At 1pm we have a prayer group run either by Joanna or Geoff, the pastoral care workers.

They have services on Thursdays and Sundays.

On Friday we have the Catholic Church minister for a Eucharistic service. 

All ministers do room visits.

Last Wednesday was a big deal as we had a swimming group and great fun was had by all.

Roll on the next time.

Those who wish can play tenpin bowling in the activity room.

Thursday is dance exercises, combined church and reminiscing in the nursing home.

There is a special men’s group and a retail fashion display, where one can purchase updated fashions.

Friday was quite hilarious, it was a stress-less day, where we were all invited to wear our pyjamas.

The staff all complied but only one resident (me).

I even accompanied a group of ladies to lunch at the Nowra Bowling Club in my pyjamas.

There is a social group in the hub Catholic Church in the activity room and the week’s activities wound up with the popular bingo.

Next week we have a display of rare birds, snakes alive and Matilda’s Restaurant, when the activity room is transformed into a plush dining area with white tablecloths, shining wine glasses and cutlery.

Everyone gets dressed up for the occasion. It gives the house-bound a going out experience. We are entertained by Voi at the piano.

All of these activities are backed up by the volunteers.

Not the least is our computer tutor, who comes twice a week to steer us through emails, Skype and other skills.

So thank you from the residents to all the staff, administration nursing staff and those who make our lives as happy and content to all involved.

P. Nield,

Osborne House,

Nowra.