Kedron Grove Retirement Village

INTRODUCTION

Although still only in planning stage, the intention of Kedron Grove Retirement Estate is to address the accommodation dilemma with which the aged and elderly have to contend. The vision came about with the realization of many Christian and Mission workers, who upon retirement had very little choice concerning their future, housing, ministry and very existence. Their independence is in many situations compromised, as they become dependant upon families to provide accommodation and basic needs.

The following is an extract from the Department of Welfare

Situation analysis - ageing in South Africa. "South Africa is at present experiencing a phase of demographic change which means that the median age of the population tends to be higher, while the age group 65+ years is gradually increasing. Of strategic importance is the trend that the group 80+ years is increasing more rapidly than the group between 65-80 years. This trend must be taken into account in future planning to ensure effective rendering of services. An annual increase of some 70,000 aged persons per annum between the years 1995 to 2015, increasing up to 180,000 aged persons per annum for the period 2015 to 2035 is projected. The aged population will escalate to 3,4 million by the year 2015 and projected to 7,8 million by 2035."

VISION

Roly Snell, the founder of Shekinah Care Ministries, believed he was clearly led of the Lord to purchase the 16 acre plot over the river from Shekinah Care Centre when it was offered for sale. The vision and express purpose was the creation of a retirement village for ministers and missionaries.

Many such individuals do not want to give up work entirely when they retire from church duties, and many still desire to be involved in the communities, and in what is happening around them.

Furthermore there are many full time mission and other Christian workers who once they reach retirement age, are compelled to make way for younger workers, and do not have a place to live, and have limited resources.

Kedron Grove could provide such a facility where older people could still be provided with opportunities for "low key" service, or "locum" service and counselling at Shekinah Care Centre, or involvement in Shekinah Rural Developments. This in turn will provide assistance and relief for the full time staff at these ministry organizations. In this way they would be able to use their skills and resources, and their experience and talent would not be wasted. On the other hand there are professional medical personal at Shekinah who could help out if the old folk require attention. It would be a symbiotic partnership.

This vision of Roly Snell fits in with the International philosophy toward the aged that aims at keeping old people active and within mainstream society instead of segmenting them away in old age homes or centres.

CONCEPTION

From this original vision that originated in 1993, the property became available in 1998, and the Shekinah Foundation Trust miraculously acquired the land.

GOAL

The goal of Kedron Grove is to provide retirement facilities for Christian Ministers, Missionaries, and Lay-workers in a country atmosphere.

Furthermore the goal is to provide affordable and appropriate retirement accommodation for Christian personnel.

PURPOSE

• To provide cottages/units for retired Christian personnel
• To reduce financial stress in retirement years
• To provide recreation, leisure and stimulation
• To provide opportunities for "low key" and "non-pressurised" community service, thus giving the retired person a "reason to live"
• To utilize many years of experience and abilities, thus not allowing these valuable people and resources to be wasted in retirement years
• To provide security and fulfilment in retirement years
• To foster solidarity and consolidation amongst the retirement community To, where feasible, establish revenue generating unit on the property (for example a garden nursery)

EXISTING INFRASTRUCTURE

• Main House (8 roomed) ideally situated for a community centre, i.e. communal dining room, TV lounge, Library, Medical Room, reception, and offices
• Double garage, double carport and a large workshop
• Cottage
• 2 bed sitters with separate toilet and shower
• Storerooms
• Stables and paddocks

PROPOSED ACCOMODATION

• Bed-sitter comprising semi private bedroom area nook, kitchen open plan into living area with a porch. Separate bathroom (Approx 52 sq m)
• Single bedroom unit comprising kitchen nook, semi open plan into living area with porch. Separate bedroom and bathroom (Approx 60 sq m)
• Two-bedroom unit, comprising Kitchen into open plan dining and living area, with porch. Two separate bedrooms, separate bathroom (Approx 70 sq m)
• Frail care facility

SUMMARY

The implementation of a positive holistic approach, recognising ageing as a normal phase of life, without denying that older people have special needs, and the right to be treated with dignity and respect is a priority.

The empowerment of older persons so as to continue living meaningful and constructive lives in a community that recognises them as important sources of experience and expertise is necessary.

The enabling of older persons to enjoy an active, healthy and independent life in a community is important.

If you would like to learn more about this project please contact