Bettie has a radiant face with a beaming smile that belies the fact that not only is she intellectually challenged but also aged and frail. Described as the most content resident who is always grateful and happy with whatever she has, Bettie stole the hearts of the staff from the day she arrived at the Home 29 years ago.
"After the convent she was living in closed down in 1985, Bettie came to our Home at the age of 51," says Kathy Jooste, CEO at Avril Elizabeth Home. "At this stage both her parents had died and her brother was responsible for her well-being. Her brother has now also died but thankfully she still has a few relatives left who visit her. This is so important for her well-being."
Research shows that people with intellectual disabilities often have an increased risk of early death compared to the general population. But life expectancy has increased slowly over time especially for those with access to medication and care.
"We are elated to be celebrating this milestone with Bettie and very pleased that although frail, and sometimes unstable on her feet, she is generally healthy," says Jooste. "She attends physiotherapy sessions daily and still builds puzzles, writes letters and knits. She seems to know her limits as she retired herself from the Adult Therapy Centre as soon as she started feeling tired and now keeps herself busy in her room and joins us in various activities if she feels fit to do so."
Jooste says that as residents such as Bettie get older, the risk of age-related illnesses are greater. They are therefore closely monitored to ensure that they are well and comfortable.
