Ms. Georgette Cardona recently chose Simblija Care Home for a short stay to recover after undergoing a total hip replacement. Her decision to stay at Simblija was the result of thorough research and a desire to regain her strength in a supportive environment close to her home in Qormi.

Born and raised in Qormi in 1955, Ms. Cardona’s early years were spent in San Gorg before her family moved to San Bastjan. Throughout her life, she has cherished the vibrant festivities in Qormi, celebrating both feasts in the village. The festive atmosphere continues to bring her immense joy, even though she does not actively participate.

At Simblija, Ms. Cardona quickly embraced the variety of activities organised by our Activity Coordinator, Fiona Debattista. From card games and exercise sessions to weekly entertainment, she found these activities not only enjoyable but also essential for her social well-being. For Ms. Cardona, social interaction is crucial. She recalls a time when 19 years ago she spent three years barely leaving the house after losing her husband. During the few times she would go to socialise with locals, were some of the happiest moments during such a dark time where she felt more herself than she had in years. When talking about her late husband, Johnny, Ms Cardona recounts meeting him during the feast celebrations of San Bastjan before the march, 55 years ago, which brought fond memories back and subsequently a delightful smile on her face.

Now at 69 years old, Ms. Cardona is a mother of three, a grandmother of seven, and a great-grandmother of one, as of January 2023. She values the closeness within her family above all else, a principle she has instilled in her children and hopes will be passed down through generations. Raised in a disciplined household, Ms. Cardona ensured these values were central in her own family.

Choosing Simblija Care Home was a carefully considered decision. Ms. Cardona wanted to recover in a place where she could regain her independence. She received full support from her three sons, Fabien, Ludovic, and Johan, who she is sure would have taken care of her. However, she wished to minimise the burden on their lives, a sentiment that influenced her decision to stay at Simblija. With 24/7 staff availability and access to all necessary amenities, Ms. Cardona found comfort in knowing she was in good hands, which also reassured her family.

Despite not knowing anyone at Simblija before her arrival, Ms. Cardona quickly made many new friends. Describing herself as sociable and willing to talk to anyone, she believes that even a simple greeting can brighten someone’s day. Her friendly nature has made her a well-liked resident at Simblija.

Reflecting on her life experiences, Ms. Cardona shares a piece of wisdom: “Be good to people, help where you need to, and keep God and your family close. There’s nothing more beautiful than the gathering of family.” Her time at Simblija Care Home has not only aided her physical recovery but also reinforced the importance of community and family bonds in her life. Join us in wishing Ms Cardona a speedy recovery and a healthy road back to independent living.

AX Care is proud to announce that AX Group has sponsored ALIVE Charity Foundation’s ALIVE2024 Cycling Challenge for Cancer Research. This partnership underscores AX Group’s unwavering commitment to supporting noble causes that significantly impact the local community. During one of their most recent training sessions, our General Manager, Natasha Azzopardi, greeted the cyclists to present our sponsorship and wish them luck on their ventures.

Through this sponsorship, AX Group aims to provide essential resources that will help ALIVE Charity Foundation in their quest to fund cancer research and support cancer patients. Our commitment to this cause is a testament to our corporate philosophy of giving back to the community and supporting health and well-being initiatives.

About ALIVE Charity Foundation

ALIVE Charity Foundation is dedicated to supporting cancer research and providing aid to those affected by this relentless disease. Through various initiatives, ALIVE aims to contribute to the search for a cure and offer much-needed support to cancer sufferers and their families.

The ALIVE2024 Cycling Challenge

As part of its latest fundraising efforts, ALIVE Charity Foundation has launched the ALIVE2024 Cycling Challenge for Cancer Research. This monumental event will take place between 21^st June and 27^th June, 2024, spanning three countries: Italy, France, and Spain. The challenge will cover an impressive 1200 KM and 700 meters of vertical elevation. Starting from Milan, their dedicated fund-raising cyclists will traverse the picturesque landscapes of France before reaching their final destination in Girona, Spain.

For more information about the ALIVE2024 Cycling Challenge and how you can contribute, please visit ALIVE Charity Foundation’s website.

As loved ones get older, their needs may evolve, particularly for those grappling with dementia. At times, the transition to a residential care home becomes a necessary step to ensure their safety and well-being. Simblija Care Home understands the complexities families face when considering this pivotal decision. With a commitment to excellence in dementia care, Simblija offers a sanctuary of support through its Butterfly Memory Support Unit (BMSU).

Our BMSU has been specially designed with dementia care in mind. The ward provides a safe and welcoming environment for residents with brightly lit spaces and sensory interiors that stimulate memory and encourage independence. Conveniently situated on the ground floor, residents are free to safely explore the surrounding landscaped grounds to enjoy fresh air and sunshine. Our monitoring system ensures they are safe at all times.

Understanding the Need for Specialised Care

The decision to move a family member with dementia into a care home can stem from various factors. Often, their needs may escalate as dementia progresses, necessitating around-the-clock supervision and specialised attention. Additionally, after a crisis such as a hospital admission, or when home caregivers can no longer provide adequate support, the transition to a care home becomes imperative.

Simblija Care Home takes pride in its dedication to providing a safe, nurturing environment for individuals with dementia. The Butterfly Memory Support Unit is meticulously designed to cater to the unique needs of residents, offering specialised care and support tailored to their cognitive and emotional requirements. Within this unit, residents find solace in a space where their dignity is upheld, and their well-being is paramount.

Guiding Families Through the Decision-Making Journey

Choosing the right care home can be overwhelming for families. Simblija Care Home aims to ease this process by providing guidance and support every step of the way. We empower families to make informed decisions that prioritise the well-being of their loved ones.

When visiting Simblija Care Home, families can expect a warm welcome and an atmosphere of quality care and concern. Our dedicated staff members are not only highly trained in dementia care but also deeply committed to forming meaningful connections with residents. We encourage families to engage with our community, fostering open communication and trust.

Supporting Families Through the Transition

We understand that the transition to a care home can evoke complex emotions for families. Simblija Care Home recognises the importance of self-care for caregivers and encourages families to prioritise their well-being as they navigate this journey.

Embracing Change with Compassion

Simblija Care Home is more than just a place of residence; it’s a community built on compassion, respect, and dignity. We embrace the journey of ageing with empathy and understanding, ensuring that every individual entrusted to our care receives the support and attention they deserve. At Simblija, families can find solace in knowing their loved ones are in capable and caring hands.

As you consider the next steps in your loved one’s journey, we invite you to explore the unparalleled support and care offered at Simblija Care Home. Together, we can navigate this transition with compassion and grace, ensuring the best possible quality of life for your loved one and peace of mind for your family.

At Simblija Care Home, nestled in the heart of Naxxar, our commitment to providing premium care extends beyond conventional methods, reaching into the realm of animal-assisted therapy, or as we fondly call it, pet therapy.

For centuries, animals have served as faithful companions, bringing joy and comfort to countless individuals. However, their role goes far beyond mere companionship; it extends into the realm of healing. At Simblija Care Home, we have harnessed the profound benefits of pet therapy to enhance the well-being of our residents.

Studies have shown that interaction with animals can lead to a significant decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. The gentle presence of our furry friends at Simblija has a soothing effect on our residents, promoting relaxation and tranquillity. One of the most remarkable aspects of pet therapy is its ability to elevate mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. The simple act of stroking a dog or cuddling a cat can release endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones, which promote feelings of happiness and well-being.

Pets also have an innate ability to help individuals relax, which can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing physical pain, which is the case for those post-op residents who have recently undergone surgery. By providing a source of comfort and distraction, animals contribute to a sense of ease and relief, helping to alleviate discomfort.

In addition to physical pain, pet therapy has been shown to ease emotional pain and reduce anxiety. The unconditional love and non-judgmental companionship offered by animals creates a safe space for our residents to express themselves freely and find solace in moments of distress.

Animals have a remarkable ability to bridge social barriers and foster connections between individuals. At Simblija Care Home, interactions with furry friends serve as catalysts for socialisation, encouraging residents to engage with one another and forge meaningful relationships.

Throughout this month, we have organised several dog visits to further enhance the well-being of our residents. Spearheaded by our dedicated Activity Coordinator, Fiona Debattista, these visits have brought immeasurable joy and companionship to our home. Fiona’s tireless efforts ensure that our residents have frequent opportunities to experience the therapeutic benefits of interacting with animals. Our dedicated care teams have gone above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of our residents’ lives is filled with love, comfort, and enrichment. Pet therapy is just one example of how we continuously strive to provide innovative and holistic care that nourishes the body, mind, and soul.

As we continue to uphold our commitment to providing premium care, we remain dedicated to exploring innovative avenues for enhancing the quality of life for our residents. Through the simple joys of pet therapy, we create moments of warmth, laughter, and companionship, ensuring that every day at Simblija Care Home is filled with love and comfort.

Everyone reaches a stage in life where balancing independence with the need for care, companionship, and safety becomes crucial. The decision to consider a move into a care home is a significant one, and at Simblija Care Home, we recognise the importance of making that choice with utmost care and consideration. Our goal is always to create a welcoming home for anyone seeking a supportive environment, regardless of their level of independence. Our friendly and well-trained staff can assist with various tasks, from medical needs to everyday chores, making daily life easier and more comfortable.

Over the years, we have helped many find a comfortable and independent lifestyle within our community in Naxxar, providing a new home that not only aligns with their lifestyle but also respects their individuality and desire to live life on their terms.  

In fact, at Simblija, personalised care is at the core of our philosophy. It begins with your room, a space we encourage you to make truly your own by adding cherished belongings and meaningful keepsakes to ensure you feel right at home. We understand the importance of creating a space that reflects your unique personality and we want to make sure your room is a comforting space filled with the things that matter most to you. And if you need a hand with this, our team is here to assist in moving your belongings from your old home into your new one.

We also appreciate that good food is the cornerstone of a good life. Here at Simblija, our kitchen team takes pride in crafting delicious, highly nutritious meals using the freshest ingredients. Whether it’s catering to personal tastes, accommodating food allergies, or adhering to dietary restrictions, we’re committed to ensuring your dining experience is both delightful and nourishing.

Simblija offers you a home filled with a wealth of options at your fingertips. You can enjoy a relaxing dip in our hydrotherapy pool or engage in personalised exercises at Revive, our physio centre. Share quality time with loved ones over a delectable meal at The Orchard restaurant. Additionally, we provide access to our library, gym, and spa to support your well-being. And for your spiritual needs, we have a Chapel where our dedicated Chaplain conducts daily mass.

But that’s not all, Simblija is more than just a residence; it’s a vibrant community that thrives on social connections and an active lifestyle. That’s why we put great effort into creating a diverse schedule of activities and excursions for our residents stimulating them physically, mentally and emotionally, ensuring their days are enriched with meaningful experiences and connections, fostering a healthy and fulfilling life.

We acknowledge that making this move can be a tough decision. That’s why we’re here to support you every step of the way. To truly understand if Simblija Care Home is the right fit for you, we encourage you to pay us a visit. Come and experience first-hand who we are and what we stand for. A warm tour of our home awaits you, where we can discuss your living options tailored to your individual needs.