Young residents Ann and Tom Preston have been receiving support from Mercy Health Home & Community Care for the past two years.
Ann has CREST syndrome, a multi-system disorder, which has resulted in a range of medical issues including problems with her lungs and circulation.
“Ann has had to have one and a half of her fingers amputated as well as the tips of her middle fingers as a result,” explained Tom.
“Ann can’t butter a piece of toast or make a cup of tea by herself and she requires an oxygen tank to breathe comfortably. It is essential for us to receive additional support so we can continue living in our own home.”
Tom said the couple, both in their seventies, has formed a strong attachment to the staff from Mercy Health Home & Community Care who they let into their home and their lives six days per week.
“The four carers we see on a regular basis have really become part of the family,” said Tom.
“As Ann’s sole carer, the support I receive from Mercy Health enables us to live comfortably and for me to have a break every now and then.”
Mercy Health Home & Community Care offers care services so people can remain living safely and independently at home. The range of services includes personal care, domestic assistance, home nursing, shopping and transport, socialising and companionship, overnight care, respite care and 24 hour live-in care.
Regional Service Leader Annette Berridge said Mercy Health Home & Community Care is also pleased to now offer free information sessions to local community groups.
“Since 1 July 2015, all Home Care Packages have been provided on a Consumer Directed Care (CDC) basis,” said Ms Berridge.
“CDC allows the individual and the carer more say over the care they receive and how they receive it but it’s also resulted in some confusion from potential consumers. Our community sessions aim to be informative and answer any questions people may have about their community care options.”
Tom said he would recommend home and community care to anyone who needed some extra assistance to remain at home.
“Mercy Health is allowing Ann and I to maintain our independence as much as possible, and to us that is priceless,” said Tom.
Mercy Health is an established provider of home and community care services and has been a part of the Young community since 2007.
Download full media release ( PDF, 207.5K )Last reviewed January 11, 2018.
