New manager of Elphin Lodge takes the reins

Edenvale resident Debbie Beech’s journey with Rand Aid has been one of dedication, growth and passion.

Recently promoted to the position of manager of Elphin Lodge retirement village, Debbie started her journey with the NPO as a social worker.

Her commitment to improving lives and incorporating the Eden Alternative ethos into the village has made a lasting impact.

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Debbie’s interest in working with elders started during her tenure as regional manager at Alzheimer’s SA.

“It was never a field I consciously thought about working in, but I discovered that I absolutely love it,” said Debbie.

“I love hearing people’s stories and life experiences; the older generation is so interesting, and we can learn so much from them.

“There is a saying: ‘When an old person dies, you lose a library’. There is a lot of truth to that.”

Joining Rand Aid as social worker in 2019 Debbie initially worked at Elphin Lodge and Ron Smith Care Centre (RSCC).

Her dedication and expertise led to her promotion to deputy manager of Elphin Lodge in 2022.

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On February 1, on her sixth anniversary with Rand Aid, Debbie stepped into her current role as manager of Elphin Lodge.

One of Debbie’s key focus areas is to embed the Rand Aid Way philosophy into Elphin Lodge.

“The Eden ethos is well established at RSCC and has been rebranded and launched in Rand Aid’s retirement villages,” she explained.

“The hearts initiative and pledge provide a practical way for residents and staff to understand the Eden Alternative, as it often feels quite abstract.”

Debbie acknowledges the strong foundation laid by her predecessor, Helen Petrie, and is determined to build on it.

She believes her background in social work will play a vital role in her management approach.

“My experience has taught me important people skills, especially empathy and the ability to view situations holistically,” she said.

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Debbie’s previous work in prisons and addiction recovery has also equipped her with the ability to stay calm in a crisis and think on her feet.

Debbie’s expertise in dementia care started when she joined Alzheimer’s SA with no prior knowledge of the condition.

“I have always been fascinated by how the brain works, having worked in psychiatric hospitals for many years,” she said.

Over the years, she has conducted training at numerous retirement homes and frail care facilities, advised on dementia-friendly spaces, and spoken on various media platforms, including TV and radio.

In 2018, Debbie represented South Africa at the Alzheimer’s Disease International University in London, where she contributed to discussions on developing a national dementia plan.

As for the future, Debbie is enthusiastic about her new responsibilities.

She looks forward to engaging with new residents, helping them transition into village life, and spearheading projects that encourage meaningful engagement.

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With her extensive experience, deep compassion and unwavering dedication, Debbie is poised to continue making a significant impact at Elphin Lodge and beyond.

Beyond her professional achievements, Debbie enjoys a fulfilling personal life.

She lives with her daughter and maintains close relationships with her two stepsons.

Her parents, both 90, are a source of great pride, and her older brother resides in Swaziland with his family.

In her free time, Debbie enjoys reading, socialising with friends, walking, watching TV, rugby and going out dancing.