FOR many families, the decision to seek home care support comes at a turning point – after a fall, illness or sudden change in health.
But according to Netta Woodbridge, Manager of Home Care Services at Adventist Retirement Plus, waiting for a crisis can mean missing the opportunity to stay ahead of challenges and maintain independence for longer.
“Quite often, people reach out at that crisis point,” she said. “But early recognition that some support might be needed can make a significant difference.”
The need for home care doesn’t always arrive suddenly. More often, it shows up in small, everyday ways.
It might be difficulty keeping up with household chores like laundry or making the bed, or struggling to prepare meals.
For others, it could be recovering from surgery or illness and needing temporary support.
There are also less obvious signs – missing appointments, trouble managing medications, or withdrawing from social activities that were once part of a regular routine.
“Sometimes it’s simply about companionship,” Ms Woodbridge said.
“Having someone to talk to, share a coffee with – that social connection is incredibly important.”
Despite these early indicators, many people delay seeking help.
Ms Woodbridge says a key barrier is the perception that accepting care means giving up independence.
“There’s often that mindset of, ‘I’m fine, I don’t want to bother anyone,’ ” she said. “And sometimes there’s fear – if I admit I need help, what happens next? Will I have to leave my home?”
These concerns are common, but they can prevent people from accessing support that is designed specifically to help them remain independent.
One of the biggest misconceptions about home care is that it involves a complete handover of daily life.
“It’s about working with the person, not taking over,” Ms Woodbridge said.
“We support people to do what they can, and step in where they need a little help. That’s what helps maintain independence.”
Whether it’s assistance with physically demanding tasks or simply having someone there for reassurance, early support can prevent more serious challenges down the track.
As a local provider, Adventist Retirement Plus places strong emphasis on personalised care.
For many families, understanding how to access home care through the government-funded Support at Home program can feel overwhelming.
“We walk alongside people throughout the whole process,” Ms Woodbridge said.
Early engagement with home care doesn’t just benefit the individual – it also eases pressure on loved ones.
For more information about home care and how to arrange support, contact info.hc@arplus.org.au or call 07 3051 0628.
