Women saluted at Leisureworld Norfinch Spa day helps residents look and feel good   Monday March 15, 2010 -- Lisa Bailey Female residents were looking and feeling good at a spa day held at Leisureworld Caregiving Centre Norfinch recently. And they were proud to be women. Clara Torres, program manager at the North York long-term care home, says the day-long event March 8 marked International Women’s Day. It’s likely to become an annual celebration based on its success, and Torres says it may be a worthwhile effort for other long-term care homes. “I think it would be wonderful if they could do that because there are so many women who have been important to someone else throughout their lives,” she says. Activation aide Anna Nguyen, who was instrumental in organizing the spa day, says it was a chance for residents to enjoy some pampering with manicures, hair and makeup before having a “glamour shot” photograph taken. Looking and feeling good, Nguyen and Torres add, enhances the self-esteem, pride and dignity of long-term care residents. This was evident in their posture, comments and facial expressions. “People have been saying that they felt really special,” Torres says. “They are here and they can be made to feel wonderful and can be recognized for their life achievements,” Torres says. In between their treatments and refreshments, participants learned about some of the world’s influential women at a display set up in the room. Among those profiled with photographs and biographies were Anne Frank, Amelia Earhardt, Oprah Winfrey, Roberta Bondar, Dorothy Hodgkin, Eleanor Roosevelt and Diana, Princess of Wales. Some of Norfinch’s own female residents of distinction were welcomed at the event, including entrepreneur Beatrice Peters, registered nurse Yvonne McLaughlin and Pauline Turchet who worked with children with disabilities. In all, 50 residents from five units at the home enjoyed the spa day. Manned by 14 staff and volunteers from the community, the treatment stations were organized in a room that was transformed for the occasion. Trees, fresh flowers, soft music and white linens all helped to create a relaxing atmosphere. “All of the senses were stimulated,” Torres says. The event proved rewarding not only for the participants but also those who worked to make it happen and others who dropped in for a visit. “The staff and volunteers had such a great time. Seeing the residents’ facial expressions and them enjoying themselves, it’s very rewarding,” Nguyen says. To remember their special day, the residents may place their glamour shots in the memory boxes outside of their rooms. Family members will also receive copies. A display of the glamour shots has also been set up in Norfinch’s main lobby, attracting a lot of appreciative attention. If you have feedback on this article, please contact the newsroom at 800-294-0051, ext. 25, or e-mail lisa(at)axiomnews.ca.