Ensuring homes are fit-for-purpose for an ageing population and those with a disability will take the pressure of a stressed aged care sector.
Wesley Mission Queensland Home Assist Secure (HAS) Senior Coordinator Amanda Lyon said the sector faced critical staff shortages, meaning supporting older Australians to safely remain in their homes had never been more important.
Ms Lyon said there was projected shortfall of at least 110,000 direct care workers over the next decade, potentially rising to more than 400,000 by 2050 if left unaddressed.
“Not only is ageing at home often the preferred choice for older people seeking independence and dignity, it also eases pressure on the formal aged care system,” she said.
Ms Lyon said, however, the rising cost-of-living made it harder for older Australians and people with disability to afford to make the costly modifications required to stay in their homes.
She said HAS was attempting to bridge the gap, with the subsidised service meaning most clients were only required to pay the cost of materials.
“With demand increasing and bookings now stretching up to two months in advance, HAS has become a vital part of the local ageing-at-home ecosystem and a low-cost alternative to engaging private trades.”
Ms Lyon said the Petrie-based operation, north of Brisbane, had been operating for 30 years and assisted more than 2000 clients last year.
She said services ranged from minor repairs to custom-built ramps, rails, and bathroom modifications, all tailored to individual needs.
“Our mission is to keep people safely in their own homes for as long as possible, and such a large part of that is keeping that home safe, secure, and accessible.
“Often, small changes like installing a ramp or modifying a bathroom can have a significant impact on a person’s independence and quality of life.”
Ms Lyon said, unlike many providers, HAS had an on-site workshop, working closely with occupational therapists to assess a home and develop the right modifications for each client’s needs.
She said this allowed for the creation of bespoke solutions that considered clients’ budgets, needs and aesthetic preferences.
Learn more about Wesley Mission Queensland Home Assist Secure.
