Freeman Court is an Independent living facility for seniors in Te Awamutu, part of Habitat for Humanity Central Region. As the majority of residents are aged 65 and older, Freeman imposed a strict lockdown during COVID-19 period.
“This was an interesting but scary time for all, what a learning curve,” Residential Manager Erin Lyford said.
During the lockdown, Freeman Court followed strict guidelines by the Ministry of Health to ensure the safety of our residents.
The staff handled the situation amazingly by organising daily walks, exercises sessions in small groups, movies and enjoying mini golf and bingo. The residents’ families were very supportive and appreciated the arrangements made by our staff. The residents connected with their families through phone, Facetime calls or, the ones who were local, sometimes came to say ‘hi’ to their window 😊.
There are a few emails and letter from the families appreciating our Freeman family.
“The hardest thing about being in lockdown is not being able to see hug and chat to loved ones, you love the most. However, I got to FaceTime with my Dad because of an amazingly caring woman, who is ensuring my Dad is safe, warm, and does not go hungry. Erin Lyford you and your amazing staff at Freeman Court deserve medals! My heart is full today.” Daughter of a resident at Freeman.”
One of our residents had a lovely moment worth sharing…
“Last week one of the ladies at Freeman Court was wanting to give an old friend of 50 years who used to live in Te Awamutu a call. The gentleman now lives in a rest home in Australia, she had the phone number but could not get through to the home, Erin and David went online and found the details of the rest home. They found a new phone number and then the very next day, when our resident tried the new number she was able to have a nice long chat to her friend in the home. She was absolutely thrilled and so was her friend and this made her day.”
ANZAC day
In the morning at 10am, all residents gathered in the dining room. Lisa, our amazing caregiver, played the last post, a minutes silence was held, Erin read the ode and finished with the playing of the last post reveille. Very proud of our residents and staff.
Mother’s Day
The staff also got some gifts for the residents on Mother’s Day to make them feel appreciated.
After the lockdown was lifted, we received a lovely card from one of our resident’s family that is worth sharing.
We would also like to acknowledge the support provided by the local shops and GP during the lockdown. Marshalls chemist who delivered residents medicines, fresh choice supermarket for their same awesome support and GP and path lab for ringing us when they are not busy so our residents can safely get their regular check ups done.
Meals delivery service
Freeman Court also operate a meals delivery service for seniors in Te Awamutu. Considered as an essential service, our Freeman Court team of staff and volunteers continued to deliver fresh and nutritious meals as normal, with increased hygiene practices in place, during the lockdown period.
