Staying independent and at home is important for many people as they age. But it can be confusing to work through all of the options and figure out what will best suit you.
Uniting Communities is making this easier for older people in Mount Gambier and surrounding towns, welcoming two new staff members to its Wehl Street office in recent months.
Care Worker Debbie Lynch said there was so much to think through when looking for support to stay in your home, as well as an assessment with the Government’s My Aged Care team and that many people find it overwhelming and did not know where to start.
“That’s why we’re here. Together, our team has worked in aged care for 15 years, so we know the system well. We’re all Mount Gambier locals, too, so have had a lot to do with the community in town and throughout the Limestone Coast,” Ms Lynch said.
Uniting Communities offers two support programs funded by the Australian Government Department of Health – the Commonwealth Home Support Program and Home Care Packages. It also offers private, fee- for-service programs.
“You might want help with things like showering, cooking, gardening or cleaning – or even support to get out and about a bit more and catch up with friends,’ Ms Lynch said. “We can help you and your family to work all of that out. The main thing is to help you explore your choices, then find a way to support you to stay independent, happy and safe.”
The Uniting Communities’ team can visit you at home or speak to you on the phone to find the options that will work best for you and they’re not only supporting people in Mount Gambier – Care Workers will help you if you’re living in a nearby town.
“It does not matter if you’re in Penola, Millicent, Port Macdonnell or somewhere in between, you can access our services,” Ms Lynch said. “We’re happy to visit you at home to talk through the options, write up a quote and advise you about how to get the most out of your budget. We’ll also support you to make changes to your plan at any stage.”
If you would like more information, contact Joumana at Uniting Communities on 1800 615 677 to talk through your choices for living independently at home.
