Summary
They say good things come in threes, and that is certainly the case in the corridors of Montcler.
There are currently three couples enjoying their golden years together while getting the care they need at the aged care facility within the Clermont Multi-Purpose Health Service.
Staff cannot recall this happening before.
“It isn’t uncommon to have one couple in care here at Montcler, but even staff who have been around for a number of years cannot recall a time where we have had three couples at once,” Acting Director of Nursing Alana Taylor said.
The trio have lifelong connections to the Clermont region, some stretching back a century, and they have a shared appreciation for the opportunity to stay together at Montcler.
Frank and Ann Goodwin, who are ‘cattle people’ from the Alpha region, have had the longest stay.
“I’ve been here for two and a half years, and Ann joined me about 18 months ago,” Frank, who has just celebrated his 93rd birthday, said.
“Frank came in first because he wouldn’t take his pills,” Ann, 92, quipped.
The couple, who have adjoining rooms, enjoy reading and crosswords as well as visits from their many family connections.
“We know everybody here: it’s a special place,” Frank said.
Marion Brown, who has been at Montcler for two years, was joined by her husband John in November last year.
The couple, who are both 85, moved from their cattle and grain property into care.
“Montcler; it’s been bloody wonderful from Marion’s point of view – when I came in,” John said.
“From my point of view, I was told I had to come here, couldn’t live on my own.”
He has high praise for the Montcler experience.
“This place is just bloody unbelievable; I could not find a fault anywhere,” John said.
“The staff are unbelievable. Your laundry’s done every day, and the food - it is lovely food, all cooked here beautifully.
“I can’t speak too highly of it. And they’re so friendly.
“Those of us that are in here, we’re like a family; it’s great.”
The most recent arrivals are Don Brown and Marjie Mansfield.
“I’ve been here for two weeks and three days,” Marjie said.
“We were looking after each other at home, and it was getting harder to cope.
“But Donny’s not feeling quite ready for it.”
Donny, who is 88, agreed.
“I’m not old enough to be in an aged care home,” he said.
“But my back’s playing up and Marjie had a lot of falls, a couple in the one day.”
Margie said they were lucky that two places became available.
“We said we’d try it,” Margie said.
“I’m here for a three-month trial,” Donny said, “but I think I’ll need a crowbar to get her out of here.”