Thornhill Manor is filled with grace and gratitude

Thornhill Manor has started a Gratitude Wall in its community centre.

The idea was the brainchild of deputy complex manager Jackie Scott, who was inspired by an Eden Alternative course she recently attended.

Founded in America, the Eden Alternative philosophy focuses on people-centred care.

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In a culture that typically views ageing as a period of decline, the Eden Alternative philosophy asserts that no matter how old we are or what challenges we live with, life is about continuing to grow.

At the end of 2016, Ron Smith Care Centre became the first organisation in Gauteng and the second in Africa to become a member of Eden Alternative South Africa registry.

Rand Aid committed to working towards the roll-out of the Eden principles at all its properties.

A few of the Eden Alternative Domains of Well-Being are connectedness, meaning and joy, and it is these states that Jackie is promoting through her latest initiative.

Thornhill Manor residents have embraced the initiative. The Decor Committee’s Penny Perrow and another creative resident, Joan Scott, have helped with the aesthetics of the project. The look and feel of the Gratitude Wall will be changed each month.

“We also intend displaying photos after village events of residents enjoying the social gatherings that we offer,” explained Penny.

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“This is a simple way of infusing a more positive feeling into the village, to counter the negative news that is so prevalent in South Africa at the moment,” said Jackie.

Any resident, family member or employee is invited to write a positive message on a large whiteboard whenever the urge strikes.

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