Shirley’s Journey from a Retirement Village to Independence in SDA: How Assistive Living and Technology Transformed Her Life

*Shirley, a Queenslander in her seventies was living in a retirement village with her husband for several years, but due to her Multiple sclerosis and her husband’s declining health, he was unable to care for her. Shirely encountered obstacles each day, including being unable to safely prepare meals and carry out simple tasks, such as opening doors. Shirley made the difficult decision move out of the retirement village and seek SDA.

She contacted Vera Living and their local Participant Engagement Specialist listened to her needs: live with enhanced independence, safely prepare meals, and carry out simple tasks in the home. Vera Living helped her find a suitable three-bedroom shared home near the Gold Coast with two like-minded housemates. Her daily life has been significantly improved by the move. Assistive technology throughout the home enables her to complete daily tasks via the iPad provided, and an adjustable kitchen bench top with integrated oven top means she can safely prepare meals.

Shirley’s new home has had a profound impact, giving her a greater sense of independence and empowerment through a combination of innovative solutions and dedicated support. The technological support has not only simplified her daily routines, allowing her to navigate her home with ease, but has also given her a newfound sense of autonomy and control.

Her daughter in South Africa expressed deep appreciation towards Vera Living’s Tenant Experience team for their consistent communication and support. The team keep her informed of changes within the household and promptly address general tenancy inquiries, fostering a sense of trust with the Vera Living community. This collaborative effort by Shirley, her support network and Vera Living are an example the transformative power of compassionate care and assistive technology in enhancing the quality of life for those living with disability.

 *Name changed to protect identity

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