Anzac Day holds immense significance for Australians and New Zealanders. World War I also impacted many of our aged care residents. It’s a special day of remembrance across Australia and New Zealand. ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps.
What Day of the Year is Anzac Day?
We observe Anzac Day on April 25th each year. On April 25th, 1915, Australian and New Zealand soldiers stormed Gallipoli to fight the Turks. Many soldiers died there, and the term “Anzac” was born.
How We Honor Anzac Day in Aged Care
Dawn Service
Anzac Day for seniors often begins with a dawn service as the sun is coming up. Many RSL groups or war memorials hold Anzac Day services at dawn. Some of the residents might be picked up and taken to these morning services. RSL or their family members might offer to drive residents to these services.
School Services
Some schools hold services before Anzac Day, and it is nice to take some residents to the schools dressed up and wearing their military medals. The children and teachers really enjoy having them attend. This is a wonderful way to bridge the generations and honor the contributions of our senior veterans.
Mid-Morning Service
Most of our aged care facilities have a flagpole, and it’s nice to have a service around mid-morning for all the residents who would like to attend. You can lay wreaths at the bottom of the flagpole in a ceremony. Three wreaths, one for every force – Army, Navy, and Air Force. If you have three residents living in your facility who served in these services, you could ask if they would like to lay a wreath in honor of their military background. Residents can be seated in front of the flagpole, and someone should sing the national anthem or you can use a recording.
When the Last Post and Reveille are played on the bugle or a recording, the flag, which has been flying at half-mast since sunrise, is taken to the top of the flagpole for the remainder of the day. It’s a good idea to have an MC to run the service and keep it flowing. After the service, everyone can enter the building and morning tea is served. Anzac biscuits and small sandwiches, coffee, and tea are a good option.
Allow Residents to Express Themselves on Anzac Day
Anzac Day for seniors can be an emotional day, and it’s important to give them the opportunity to express themselves in any way they feel. You can invite any of the residents to read a poem at the service about the war and recite the Ode.
Wreaths for a Crafts Activity
Ordering wreaths to lay at the flagpole can be quite costly, so in the lead-up to Anzac Day, I arranged my craft group in the facility to make up the wreaths of flowers. I have purchased the foam florist rings and collected flowers and foliage from my garden, friends’ and neighbors’ gardens, using mostly native plants. Also, rosemary is significant to use. I found that even though the wreaths weren’t always professional looking, the residents took much pride in making them.
Key Takeaway
Anzac Day for seniors in aged care is a meaningful and significant event that requires thoughtful planning and consideration. By following these steps and ideas, aged care coordinators can host a memorable and heartfelt Anzac Day for their senior residents. Engage your residents, involve the community, and honor the sacrifices made by our brave soldiers. Let’s ensure that Anzac Day remains a cherished tradition for generations to come.
