They commenced with services under both the domestic assistance program and flexible respite.

Fay enjoyed the social aspect of the services, and often liked to assist our support worker with domestic tasks.

These services provided Michael with much needed respite, as he could run errands and spend some time by himself.

“Being a carer is full on,” Michael says. “The support services enabled me to attend to necessary tasks such as shopping, paying bills and banking. The support staff were very obliging.”

Fay was then assigned a Home Care Package where she continued to receive our services, with additional support for personal care.

Fay and Michael also became regular attendees on the Interchange Australia group outings, which included many wonderful day trips travelling in a coach with their peers. These trips included visits to Canberra, Sydney, Yass, a local theatre production and Berrima Museum. The Christmas in July at Dormie House was great fun.

“We both enjoyed the outings. It was a distraction away from the health conditions Fay was experiencing,” Michael said.

Sadly, Fay passed away in April of this year. Following her passing, Michael began to receive services under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme and continues to do so.

He receives regular domestic assistance service and commented, “The domestic assistance service helps tremendously with daily living. I don’t think I could manage living independently without it.”

Michael has been very happy with the services provided by Interchange Australia over the years and is very grateful for the care, support and assistance they both have had.

“Our consultant, Wendy Hughes, has been an excellent help. She has guided us through all of the different services over the years,” he said.