Edenglen High School pupils pamper Rand Aid residents for Women’s Day

The Occupational Therapy (OT) Activity Centre at Rand Aid’s Ron Smith Care Centre was transformed into a spa on August 8 in preparation for a day of pampering for the residents and staff.

Held in celebration of Women’s Day, the event organisers ensured that special attention was given to the residents of River Lodge 3.

This is the wing for those living with dementia.

Some Grade 11 pupils from Edenglen High School, along with their teacher Ms Debbie Cloud joined OT staff and volunteers in offering their services as spa beauty therapists for the day.

Aside from all the visiting, laughter and chatting that took place, the pupils took part in a chair exercise session for the residents.

They later served tea and muffins which they had brought along with them.

Then it was on to the pampering session, where both male and female residents were treated to their choice of beauty/relaxation treatments.

These treatments included hand and foot massages, manicures, pedicures and/or make up sessions.

The pupils donated some sponsored nail care and beauty products, which added to the choices on offer.

The residents enjoyed their day and especially loved the interaction and care shown by the younger generation.

Residents Ms Lorraine Lowden and Ms Colleen Daly said the day was so much fun. Ms Janet Smart couldn’t stop admiring her nails after pupil Saiyuri Tshworlal had just finished painting them.

“My nails match my outfit,” she said.

Another pupil, Keagan Roos said that he enjoys working with people and making a difference in their lives.

He was happy to have met the care centre residents.

After lunch, it was the care centre staff’s turn to be pampered and they enjoyed every moment.

“They work very hard and we are here to give you a treat,” said Ms Debbie Christen, Rand Aid’s manager of recreational programmes.

“The way we celebrated this Women’s Day blossomed into a special day for all. Men and women, young and old, residents, staff and the pupils all had the opportunity to be enriched. In giving care to one another, each one received in return. It was a beautiful, fun day filled with the blessing of connecting with others and creating magical moments,” said Ms Christen.