Alison and her husband Carl love being part of their local community in Jervis Bay, on the picturesque south coast of New South Wales. Life became challenging, though, when Alison was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease a few years ago.
Parkinson’s impacted Alison’s ability to do everyday tasks like cooking, keeping their house tidy, getting out and about and doing the shopping. Carl devoted himself to being her full-time carer, supporting his wife so they could continue living at home together. Although he’s been a wonderful support, the couple needed help.
Thankfully in October last year, Alison was approved to receive government support by qualifying for NDIS funding. She got in touch with Parkinson’s NSW, who recommended three NDIS providers in her area. Alison decided to give Home Caring Shoalhaven a try, as they were the provider that best met her needs. Manager Renee Smith, an experienced registered nurse and lifelong local in the south coast area, quickly got in touch.
“Renee contacted me, and asked if she could visit me to discuss my needs and Home Caring’s services,” recalls Alison. “She chatted with me for quite some time, displaying empathy and care. I felt that a great rapport developed between us. Renee lined up a lovely carer, Tracey, to support me once a fortnight.”
Tracey, a local in-home carer, helps Alison with everyday tasks such as keeping their home
clean and tidy: “She does a completely thorough job. On her first visit, Tracey cleaned our oven, cleaned 2 bathrooms and floors. “She did such an awesome job with the shower screens that we laughed and said we don’t want to get in the shower because it’s so sparkly clean!” says Alison.
Tracey remains adaptable and available to her client’s changing needs. This has taken a lot of the pressure off Carl’s shoulders so he can have a break and some time to himself. And it’s also enabled Alison to enjoy a better quality of life.
“It’s such a pleasure to provide care for Alison,” says Renee. “Alison and Carl are such welcoming, genuine and humble people – they always want whatever is best for the other person which is inspiring. We want to do our best for them, so Alison can be as independent as possible.”
For Alison, this has made all the difference. “I feel confident and cared for. Renee and Tracey
makes everything seem effortless. Nothing’s too much trouble, or too much. They’re there to help
me, and I don’t feel like I’m expecting too much. They have such an awesome manner,” says Alison.
“I highly recommend Renee Smith’s services through Home Caring Shoalhaven’s Services!”
As a registered NDIS provider and home carers, Home Caring provides personalised Home Care Packages and in home care services for seniors and NDIS support for people living with disability. Our teams are locally based and passionate about helping people in their community achieve the best quality of life possible. For more information, call 1300 875 377 for your free consultation.
