When Judy was first diagnosed with dementia, her symptoms were mild. But over the next few years, her short-term memory declined.
When she started forgetting to switch off the iron, her husband Michael became concerned for her safety. So, he called My Aged Care to find out what support might be available and organised an aged care assessment.
An assessor came to their home and talked with Judy and Michael about their concerns. Judy wanted to keep doing as much on her own as possible and Michael wanted to make sure she stayed safe, too. The assessor considered Judy’s preferences and needs before approving her for the Support at Home program and allocated funding for assistive technology. She was given a priority rating and placed on the Support at Home prioritisation system. She received a letter once funding was available. They met a few providers and found one that they both liked.
Together with their chosen provider’s care partner, Judy and Michael worked out a care plan. A support worker would help with the laundry, ironing, bed-making, and more difficult chores. They discussed that Judy would still like to do light cleaning and gardening by herself. They also arranged for someone to drive Judy and accompany her at GP and specialist appointments.
The provider arranged for Judy to get a medication dispenser. This device enabled her to remember what medicine she had taken every day without always needing to ask Michael. Some new signage was also installed around the house, which helped a lot – especially the labels on the kitchen cabinets and drawers. She also had a calendar for outlining daily chores so she could remind herself of what she wanted to do each day.
Judy and Michael felt more at ease working with the care team. Judy felt comfortable knowing her needs were considered, and Michael felt more confident knowing Judy was safe.
Her care partner visited regularly to check on Judy and monitor her care. He also spoke to Judy and Michael about what could happen and what could be done as Judy’s dementia got worse. Just knowing there was support available and things they could do and prepare for was reassuring.
Services featured in Judy's story
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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.
