Expo to assist community accessing home care services for loved ones

November 11, 2016

Shirley Jones wants seniors across North Western Tasmania to know the benefits a home care package with Uniting AgeWell can provide. 

The senior services provider, which assists Shirley three days a week with showering, gardening and cleaning, will host an aged care expo on Friday, November 18 at the Strathdevon Community in Latrobe. 

Shirley said she could not be more thankful for the help she received at home in the past 12 months, since being diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis.

“I don’t know how I would have coped without the help of the carers, especially Trudi and Deirdre” she said. 

“They’re beautiful people and help me with anything I need around the home without making me feel uncomfortable. 

“Trudi even spotted a freckle on my leg, which turned out to be cancerous.  They deserve a payrise.”

The Expo will provide seniors and families information and advice on accessing aged care services.  Representatives from Centrelink, COTA, Advocacy Tasmania, Australian Hearing, Community Transport Service, Tasmania Independent Living Centre and the federal and state Department of Health will also be at the event. 

Uniting AgeWell Strathdevon Community Programs Coordinator Peter Cullen said services such as personal care, social support and assistance with domestic chores and technology, enable older people to remain independent in their own homes, while remaining connected and an active part of the community. 

“From February 2017, there will be significant changes to Home Care funding, which gives older Australians greater choice and flexibility when accessing home care packages,” he said.    

“We understand there are a lot of options out there and it can be difficult to understand and navigate the aged care system.

“We’re holding this Expo to help people find out what services are available, whether they’re eligible and help them get referrals and register on My Aged Care.”

 
When: Friday, November 18, 10am - 3pm
Where: Uniting AgeWell Strathdevon Community, 37 Moriarty Road, Latrobe

Photograph and interview opportunities are available.