Is this YOU?
Understanding Home Care
Whilst each person and their circumstances is unique, the consumer profiles below were created to identify some common situations you may find yourself in as well as related information to help on your journey to find the best support options for you.
GEOFF & LOIS 75 year old couple, living independently This couple lives independently in their own home. They are supported by their daughter Susan who helps out with shopping, cleaning and cooking twice a week. Susan feels the pressure of caring for her parents as well as working full time and managing her own family. She is looking for home care services that can help support her independent parents. Read more: What is home care – see page 85 Assessments – see page 118
WILLIAM & CAROL 67 & 65 years old, carer/ patient relationship Carol was diagnosed with early onset dementia 7 years ago and William has been caring for his wife ever since. William is starting to struggle with his own health and caring for Carol by himself is becoming harder. Carol needs some specific care services that William cannot deliver by himself any longer. They are looking for support in their home or respite to give William a break. Read more: Respite – see page 103
GEORGE 77 year old widower, social support George’s daughter Jess lives around the corner and often visits, but George is lonely, grieving his loss and wishing to live life well. Whilst his physical care needs are not high, mentally and emotionally he is suffering. Jess is not sure how she can help more. George needs care services to improve his wellbeing and help him connect and build relationships with other people his age. Read more: Social support – see page 101
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Home Care Guide 2021
DON 81, single, multicultural background Originally from Italy, Don lives on a pension in a rented unit and doesn’t have any children or other family nearby. He has started to struggle with his English, reverting back to Italian. He doesn’t go out much, and only interacts with his neighbor Anne, who has noticed Don is starting to struggle to look after himself. He needs some guidance about what help is available. Read more: Assessments – see page 118 Government funded supports – see page 109
DIANNE 72, single, self-funding supports Dianne lives on her own and has a daughter who lives interstate. She has a busy social life, and loves going to the theatre. One day when hanging out the washing she trips on a paver and breaks her hip. After recovery, Dianne found she still needs extra help around the home for domestic tasks. Because she’s not eligible for Government funded supports, she decides to pay for privately funded services. Read more: Domestic assistance – see page 94 Self funded supports – see page 117
NORA 67, single woman, limited mobility Nora has limited mobility and struggles to get around to shops and appointments. One of her children lives close, but the rest are interstate and Nora doesn’t want to put pressure on the one child for support. Nora needs specific services to help her with transport and shopping. Read more: Meals and shopping – see page 96 Transport – see page 100
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