Everyday Essentials Are Just a Trolley Visit Away

During these times of self-isolation, it’s a little tricky for our retirement village residents to get the everyday essentials they need, like milk and bread, without leaving home. This is where Nicole, our Mayflower Gift Shop manager, has been stepping in.

'Social distance' friends Nicole and Graham load the trolley with Easter goodies.

For many years our aged care residents have looked forward to a weekly visit from long standing volunteer, Adeline, with a tailored ‘kiosk’ trolley full of goodies and treats.

Nicole also started visiting aged care residents with the trolley in more recent times, and with this service in mind, she saw an opportunity to make resident’s lives in our retirement units that little bit easier as they navigate the world of COVID-19.

Nicole has been busy shopping, so our retirement residents don’t have to. Her trolley now brings essential everyday items to our retirement village to reduce the need for regular trips to the supermarket, and to help keep our retirement village residents safe. Nicole visits the retirement village twice a week supplying everyday essentials and taking special orders for individual people.

Never shying away from a good chat, Nicole enjoys getting to know each person and their needs.

“I spend just as much time chatting and connecting with residents as I spend shopping on their behalf,” said Nicole.

Nicole also finds the process rewarding on a deeper level and enjoys the new friendships that she has made.

“It is so rewarding to brighten someone’s day with something they have been missing like their favourite milk and to also give them some company, from a distance of course!”