Cherie-Lee Lindsay is benefitting from the assistance of Resthaven Fleurieu Community Services, who support her to care for her dad, Mr Bill Kable, who lives with dementia.
She explains, “In 2017, Dad was living on our property in a granny flat, and initially received social support visits. Home support workers took him out for lunch, to the movies or to visit friends.”
“They would also accompany him on bus trips arranged through the local council, as well as taking him to strength and balance classes, which he enjoyed.
“Dad’s needs have always been a priority for our family, and having Resthaven there as his dementia progresses has been a great comfort.
“As Dad’s dementia progressed, his mobility declined and he was unable to walk very far, so he moved into our home in 2020.’
“His social visits look a little different these days, but nonetheless, ones he still enjoys immensely with his carers. He now has two a week, where they take Dad out in the car, sometimes with our little poodle, and go for a drive along the Fleurieu Peninsula or to visit a town in the Adelaide Hills.
“They always purchase a take-away coffee and may also grab something to eat, whilst enjoying the local sights.”
Now, after being a client of Resthaven for many years, Cherie-Lee says the home support workers, Jo and Michael, “feel like part of our family.”
“They have established long-term relationships with Dad, and my husband and I, which is so important to us,” Cherie-Lee said.
“Sometimes Dad doesn’t feel like getting out of bed; however, when I let him know that either Jo or Michael will be visiting, he is keen to get up and get dressed!”
After Bill had a recent fall, Cherie-Lee contacted her coordinator, who helped her with arranging allied health services: “The occupational therapist identified what dad needed for both the short and long term, and we also accessed physiotherapy home visits to assist with his recovery.
“I know I can just pick up the phone or email our co-ordinator to ask any questions relating to services or assistance, and they’ll share details.”
Recently, Cherie-Lee and Bill participated in Resthaven’s Staying at Home in Regional SA program, attending a three-day retreat in the Adelaide Hills.
Cherie-Lee’s experience with the retreat was a ‘game-changer’ in her understanding of dementia.
“Now that I’ve attended the retreat, I feel more confident to support Dad and know what to do as his needs change and increase.
“And I know Resthaven is there to support us, every step of the way.”
Resthaven home support services are tailored to reflect clients’ needs, choices, and interests. Working together with family carers plays a vital role within our service delivery.
Cherie-Lee’s story is one of many examples of Resthaven staff working in partnership with carers with a goal for clients to maintain their independence at home.
