One of the key values of Presbyterian Aged Care (PAC) is to show compassion and love by caring for and nurturing the whole person. This includes valuing and fostering the spiritual wellbeing of all our residents and clients.
While all staff are committed to reflect these values, Presbyterian Aged Care also employs Christian chaplains with a heart and passion for older Australians, to minister to the emotional and spiritual needs of residents, clients, and their carers and family whatever their religious backgrounds or beliefs. These services are available to you whether you are associated with PAC through residential care, home care, or retirement villages.
Often our Chaplains get to know residents and clients over a game or other activity and function as an extra set of eyes for promoting their wellbeing. They are also experienced with the many forms of change or grief you may be experiencing and are available to visit and to provide support during these difficult times – including situations where residents or clients are admitted to hospital, admitted to palliative care or struggling with mental illness or dementia.
Support is also provided through the provision of regular spiritual activities such as chapel services, Bible studies and prayer groups for those who wish to attend. These activities provide opportunities for residents, whatever their spiritual background, to engage in worship, learn more about God’s word in the Bible and receive spiritual encouragement and hope for the future. Where desired, chaplains can also put residents or clients in touch with a minister, priest, spiritual leader or counsellor from another faith of their choice with a view to meeting their specific spiritual needs.
When a loved one dies, chaplains are available on request, to attend or conduct funerals as a means of supporting carers and their families. In some facilities, memorial services are also held on a regular basis for those who have recently passed away. Residents, staff and carers are invited to these services as a means of honouring those residents, clients or staff who have departed from us and sharing in their stories.