Published date: 16 June 2022
Peter, 78, didn’t want aged care support as he got older. But when he realised it could help him and his wife stay independent at home for longer, he changed his mind.
Yet the decision didn’t happen overnight, it took time.
“I was too proud to ask for help. I used to think only people who can’t support themselves need government help — and that just isn’t me,” Peter says.
Making the decision to ask for help
Peter had always been independent and active, and liked to do things himself. He cared for his bedridden wife, cleaned the house, and liked to make time for his metalwork hobby.
But after having surgery on his back and problems with his hips, knees, and ankles, these tasks became harder.
One day, Peter’s neighbour suggested it was time he look at getting some support.
“It was the first time I truly thought about it,” says Peter. “I had to realise ‘Okay, you can’t do it all by yourself, you have to get over your pride ask for help’.”
Finding the right services
Peter searched for government-funded aged care support online.
“I just had to admit that I just couldn’t do some things anymore.”
After completing an application through My Aged Care, an assessor came to his house to do an assessment.
A few weeks later, he received a letter from My Aged Care telling him he was eligible for a Home Care Package.
Seeing the benefits of good care
Peter is continuing to improve his home and garden with the help of My Aged Care.
He receives help in the garden every few months, among a list of other home care services.
Initially Peter was hesitant to ask the gardener to weed and prune. But when he did, the gardener was unfazed.
“He said, 'No worries, mate. You sit down and watch me and tell me if I do something wrong',” Peter says.
“He must know some secret because, lo and behold, the roses are blooming all over the place!”
A new outlook
These days, Peter says he is slowly getting used to delegating these household jobs. And his attitude towards getting help and receiving government-funded services has completely changed.
“The care team has been so friendly, and they like what they’re doing. It’s almost as if it’s an extension of myself,” Peter says.
“Sooner or later, you need help... and it’s that extra help that can allow you to stay at home."
To learn more about government-funded help at home services, visit the Help explorer.
Last updated date: 20 November 2024
