Preparations for Easter have been an ongoing feature for some weeks at Casa Antonia in Balzan but activities will reach a high point in the coming days being Holy Week. Such activities form part of an ongoing initiative for active, healthy ageing and old age care as residents enjoy homelike comforts and companionship within this active community.

"In a world where research is increasingly recognizing and documenting the benefits of holistic care, Casa Antonia in Balzan has, since its inception, understood that caring for a person includes mind, body and soul," said Dr Sarah Cassar, Casa Antonia general manager. "Our emphasis is on holistic quality care within a vibrant, homelike living environment."

The Easter theme features in several activities including the baking of traditional figolli, talks about Easter traditions around the world, a Bible quiz and doing crafts related to Easter. A special outing to visit the statue of Christ the Redeemer at Senglea parish church, followed by a picnic by the sea, was also organised.

Earlier this month, lenten talks were delivered by Fr Adriano Cachia, featuring topics related to the elderly. Apart from the daily mass throughout the year, which can be viewed live in the comfort of one's room on Casa Antonia TV channel, religious services include exposition of the statue of Our Lady of Sorrows for one week preceding the feast, preparation of the altar of repose (sepulkru) and exposition of the Ecce Homo for Good Friday week.

This morning, the residents will enjoy Palm Sunday as Balzan's St Gabriel Band Club organises the traditional procession with animals and re-enactors that will pass through Casa Antonia's parking area. Tea, coffee and light snacks are served during the event.

The Easter Triduum, starting with the remembrance of Maundy Thursday, and followed by Good Friday functions, will take a livelier turn on Sunday when the residents will be treated to a special Easter lunch celebration complete with lamb, chocolates, qagħaq tal-Appostli, an Easter gift for each resident and live music.

"At Casa Antonia, we love to celebrate special occasions during the year as they extend a sense of homely feeling that is so much appreciated by our residents," said Dr Cassar. "It is also one of the reasons why Casa Antonia, a facility surrounded by gardens, has established itself as one of the top nursing and residential care homes in Malta".

Further information can be obtained by phoning on (+356) 2149 6277; email: [email protected] or visiting www.casa-antonia.com.mt