WATCH: Queenshaven marks 70th anniversary of existence

Established in 1952 to cater for the needs of the elderly, Queenshaven Village celebrated its 70th anniversary on June 21.

This celebration was themed under the Platinum Jubilee of Elizabeth II, as it was their platinum anniversary.

The haven was established to provide a life of dignity and security to the elderly, as well as to provide the best possible happiness in their golden years.

The resident services manager, Hilary Passmore, has been with the retirement village for 42 years and has been a dedicated role player from day one.

According to Passmore, age is a state of mind, and if one lives happily into old age, much of one’s youth endures forever.

“The level of the service the centre offers serves as the main reason as to why I have been here for 42 years. It is an amazing experience to see people coming to the centre to find peace and happiness and only to find out it is exactly what we are going to offer them,” said Passmore.

This heart and soul centre is taking care of old folk, and one of them celebrated a centenary two years ago.
Julius Smuts (102) is the oldest senior in the haven and has been residing with them since December 1, 2008.

Smuts is an active member of the centre who plays billiards and always keeps busy during his free time.

According to Smuts, he has a son who resides in Johannesburg and fetches him every two weeks to spend time with him. He always teaches his son about the ups and downs of life and how to tackle them to keep going.

“I am 102 years old because of God’s grace. I had a busy life during my youth years just like any other individual. I always knew how to stay true to myself and avoid doing naughty and disobedient things,” said Smuts.

He said he has been granted a long life because he was rarely exposed to illnesses.

Seniors were kept entertained through various performances that included a ballet performance, the singing of Jerusalem by Master KG challenge and a chorus sung by all the attendees.

The elders sang their daily Queenshaven song written by one of the individuals who used to stay in the centre.
The village is divided into three sub-sections, which are independent self-contained bedsitters and cottages, the semi-frail facility, and the frail care section.

The manager of the matrons, Noami van der Westhuizen, attended the celebration and ensured that seniors are taken care of during this celebration.

Van der Westhuizen told the Southern Courier that working with elderly people has taught her many different things and has given her purpose in life to look forward each day to the next day.

“We know that it can be challenging working with elderly people, but it is a great pleasure for me because they keep me entertained and maintain professionalism at all times, while we stick to reasons why we work at the centre,” said Van der Westhuizen.

The seniors closed off the beautiful occasion feasting with a mouth-watering brunch.