Jackie Scott will retire at the end of January, concluding an extraordinary career spanning nearly 23 years at Thornhill Manor retirement village. She has served as the village’s deputy manager, playing a pivotal role in the development of its systems, culture and community.
Jackie began her journey with Rand Aid just before Christmas in 2000, joining as personal assistant to then-executive director Leon Ghavalas. In 2003, when phase one of Thornhill Manor was completed, she was invited to transfer to the village, initially serving as deputy administrator. Four years later, she was promoted to deputy manager.
Jackie says she never imagined staying this long. “I started with the Christmas card kiosk and volunteered there, and was told that there was a PA position available. I went to the interview and started the next day. I have always been loyal, but the thought of staying this long never really crossed my mind.”
Over the years, Jackie has experienced many highlights, including training in the Eden Alternative, which she describes as a ‘paradigm shift’ that changed both her approach to life and her perspective on elder care. She treasured having her mother live at Thornhill Manor, allowing her to be present for her daily, and values the friendships she has formed with staff over the years.
Some moments at the village have brought Jackie both laughter and lasting memories. One she recalls fondly involved a group of residents who had to rush a friend to the hospital one night with a broken leg. “They all got into the car in their pyjamas – one wearing a leopard skin gown and fluffy slippers – with the broken leg sticking through the open window. The sight made me laugh, and the doctor in the emergency room couldn’t contain himself either,” she recalls.
Jackie says the residents have taught her invaluable lessons about calm, patience and accepting that ‘everything happens when it is supposed to’. She has also witnessed significant shifts in elder care over the years. “Everyone needs to feel wanted and have a purpose. Autonomy is key, and simple pleasures are vital. A hug is so important for those without family close by. Taking time to listen and assist, especially with technology, has become increasingly crucial.”
Looking ahead, Jackie plans to move to the Western Cape to be closer to her only daughter. She looks forward to pursuing hobbies such as walking and Tai Chi, travelling to Italy with her daughter, and cooking with a ‘real nonna’. She also dreams of taking a cruise and enjoying new experiences in her retirement.
What she will miss most, she says, are the residents she considers her extended family. “We have gone through so much together. There has never been a morning when I haven’t wanted to go to work,” she adds.
