SOUTH AFRICA: Haven For Senior Citizens To Enjoy Life

PRETORIA, South Africa (The Pretoria News & Independent), June 23, 2005: They maybe getting along in years, but there is nothing frail about them. In fact, they are full of life. The residents of the Magnolia Haven have nothing but energy and enthusiasm for what ever it is they put their minds to. Situated in Bailey's Muckleneuk, the senior citizen's home is a haven and home to more than 70 of the city's more senior citizens. "We only take senior citizens who are able to take care of themselves because they live in flats and those who are married are able to live together in their flats 'I've been divorced most of my life. I probably have that to thank for my long life' ." Running costs are covered by funding from ADRA and residents pay according to their individual income. Friends and family also contribute to costs. There are 64 flats, of which 17 are doubles, set in beautiful gardens. Magnolia Haven is celebrating its 25th anniversary next Monday. "As we look to the future with confidence and courage, we can only do so by remembering the past and the wonderful way in which we have been supported by the public, State, friends and our mother institution (ADRA) for the loving and caring way in which God our Father has led and guided our institution," said Buckley. "We are privileged to have one of the residents who moved to Magnolia Haven when it opened in 1980 still living here, not only at Magnolia Haven, but in the flat she moved into 25 years ago," said Buckley. That honour goes to Julie Thomson, who is still full of energy at 89. Thomson moved in at the Haven when she was 64 and still takes part in the activities. "When I first got here, I used to go bowling and I would walk to the bowling courts and back. Now my favourite thing to do is to play bridge," said Thomson. She lives alone in her flat, but regularly visits to her three daughters. "I've been divorced most of my life. I probably have that to thank for my long life," she chuckled. The residents at the Haven keep busy by playing bridge, knitting, making teddybears and tending their gardens. Kottie Botha (65) keeps busy by painting the exterior of the Haven. Botha insists on doing the painting himself and refuses to get any help. The Haven also works closely with Meals on Wheels, which delivers cooked meals to members of the community who have trouble caring for themselves. "The residents of Magnolia Haven have supported the service centre over the years, and have made it possible for it to function meaningfully," said Buckley. Residents help with some of the cooking and also buy meals so that funds can be raised to provide indigent people with meals. Meals on Wheels is now serving and delivering more than 40 000 meals a year. By keeping busy and helping the community the residents of Magnolia Haven are a fine example of "grey" power. By Matshego Njumbuxa ©2005 The Pretoria News & Independent Online (Pty) Ltd.