Special guests for aged care residents

TWO visitors thrilled Heathcote Health Aged Care residents last week when Heathcote Health CEO Jackie Kelly brought her donkeys, ANZAC and Buddy, to work.

Many of the care home residents and other locals have been knitting poppies to make a blanket for ANZAC, which will be worn at upcoming RSL commemorations.

Poppies honour those who have died or suffered in wars, and red, white, purple, and black poppies each represent different aspects of remembrance.

Jan Rowe from the Heathcote Craft Group presented Kelly with more than 130 poppies in various colours made by the group over the past weeks.

“We have had so much support we should be able to make blankets for both ANZAC and Buddy,” Kelly said.

Heathcote RSL secretary Bryan Linnell was proud to attend with other members.

“It is wonderful that so many crafters are participating in this project and we are looking forward to seeing the result when ANZAC joins our next RSL commemoration,” he said.

Anita Moore is coordinating efforts by RSL members to make more poppies.

Heathcote Health Aged Care resident Diana said it was wonderful to meet the donkeys.

“So many residents don’t get the opportunity to see animals anymore,” she said.

“Lots of them used to have pets and they really miss them.”

Helen, who has been knitting poppies, said the visit was a lovely and unusual surprise.

“I really enjoyed patting them and the gentle way they behave is beautiful,” she said.

Kelly has owned donkeys for 10 years.

“I purchased Buddy from a breeder in Bendigo and ANZAC was bred on my property,” she said.

A member of the Bendigo and District Donkey and Mule Club, Kelly has taken her donkeys to various aged care facilities.

“They are not just pets, they have a real purpose,” she said.

“Visiting residents in aged care is not only good for the residents, it is good for the donkeys, too.

“It helps to socialise them and they are very gentle with the residents.”

Kelly also has miniature donkeys and is planning to bring them to the aged care facility.

“I can bring them inside, which is great for the residents who are not able to get around as easily,” she said.

“The smiles on residents’ faces makes it all worthwhile.”