George had always been an active person. But after many months of caring for his wife Mei, he began to feel run down.
Mei had dementia, and as her condition declined, she started relying on George much more. George realised he and Mei needed some extra support.
Through My Aged Care, 82-year-old Mei was assessed and approved for Commonwealth Home Support Program services. These services could give her some in-home support and give George some time to himself as the carer. Mei received some support with meals, transport and cleaning around the home.
Mei was also referred to a respite care provider who arranged for someone to care for her at home, once a week. When the respite carer came, George was able to catch up with his friends at the RSL—something he had really missed.
As Mei’s dementia worsened, she spoke to her provider about arranging a Support Plan Review. Mei’s provider arranged for an assessor to visit. With George’s help, she discussed with the assessor the need for additional supports and was approved for services through the Support at Home program. Mei was put on a national wait list and received a letter once her funding was available. Together, George and Mei chose a provider, who arranged an occupational therapist to help Mei plan her daily routine.
Mei also chose to have a personal care worker to help her with washing her hair, getting dressed, and taking medication. Mei and George met with quite a few personal care workers and got on best with Mahelet.
Mahelet started visiting Mei 3 times a week, at a time of day that suited them all.
Spending time with his friends and taking a break from his caring role worked wonders for George’s health and wellbeing. Mei was also happy to have some extra support and not have to rely on George as much. Mei’s provider was also able to connect her to some dementia-specific resources and supports.
The help Mei and George received was a huge relief to them both and helped improve their outlook and relationship.
Services featured in George and Mei’s story
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How can I get these services?
To access these services, you will need to be assessed. An aged care assessment determines whether you are approved to access services based on your care needs.
