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SAVF celebrates 120 years

The SAVF team is truly committed to their work.

The SAVF recently celebrated its 120th anniversary.

SAVF retirement homes are warm, welcoming spaces where care is tailored to meet each resident’s unique needs, thanks to a team deeply committed to their work.

With a guiding philosophy centred round approachability, value and a family-friendly environment, the SAVF Herfsakker staff consistently go above and beyond to create a safe, dignified and fulfilling space for older adults.

Sbongile Maseko, Lucky Gumbo, Sindi Mkhatshwa, Pretty Mahlalrla, Kass Ngobeni, Lindelwa Sandleni and Florence Ngele.

A hallmark of the SAVF’s approach is individualised care and each resident receives a personalised development plan upon joining the home.

These plans are crafted to reflect personal needs and preferences, ensuring each resident’s care journey is as comfortable and enriching as possible. Residents benefit from thoughtfully designed programmes that encourage them to remain mentally engaged, socially connected and physically active.

Leonie Stander, Marjan Abbott and Ronel Roux.

Whether it’s an art session, a puzzle challenge or a group activity, every programme is designed to nurture residents’ well-being in a meaningful way.

ALSO READ: SAVF Rustig se basaar oudergewoonte ‘n staatmaker

For residents facing cognitive challenges such as Alzheimer’s, family involvement is especially valued. The SAVF understands the importance of keeping families connected and engaged with their loved ones’ daily lives.

The maintenance team. Fanie Mdluli, Nico van der Walt and Sizwe Matsane.

The staff actively encourage families to participate by sharing pastimes and hobbies that may spark positive memories. By including familiar items or activities, families and staff alike can help create a comforting, stimulating environment that supports mental and emotional health.

In addition to individualised care, the SAVF places a strong emphasis on nutrition, understanding that well-being starts with good, balanced meals.

The staff work to provide meals that are both nutritious and delicious, meeting each resident’s dietary needs and preferences. This thoughtful approach ensures that each resident enjoys meals that not only support physical health, but also add joy to their daily routine.

The SAVF also offers housing schemes for those who prefer a more independent lifestyle, but still benefit from the support and community of the home environment. These apartment-style accommodations allow residents the freedom of independent living with the security and companionship that comes with being part of a vibrant, caring community.

Back: Marinda Schroeder, Sindy Mkhatshwa, Lucy Gumbo, Tandeka Moela and Riana Joubert. Front: Natalia Wolmarans, Yolanda Joubert and Ronel van der Walt.

At the heart of the SAVF’s retirement homes are the dedicated staff who make all of this possible. Their compassion, commitment and respect for every resident create a space that feels like home.

For residents and families alike, the SAVF’s commitment to providing excellent, personalised care is felt daily, making these homes places of true warmth and care.

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Bertus de Bruyn

Bertus de Bruyn is based in Mbombela, Mpumalanga. De Bruyn has been employed by Caxton since 2009. After a short sabbatical of two years, De Bruyn is back at the place he called home, Caxton, at Lowveld Media. He is currently the digital content manager, but has 14 years of journalism skills, news editor, and acting editor duties behind his name.
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