Andrea and Dave Williamson have a saying: "Don't call us in the morning as we'll be out. But call us in the afternoon to make sure we got home!"
Age and health are no barrier for Andrea and Dave. They fill each day doing the things they love - craft groups; Carina seniors group; woodwork; all things music - ensembles, performances, even making a mandola; propagating orchids; poetry reading; ancestry research; attending church; and family.
Having both been widowed at a young age, Dave and Andrea first met on a blind date in 1993, marrying the following year.
Not long after they were married, Dave experienced two strokes in close succession. Fierce determination in rehabilitation saw Dave return to his hobbies.
At a similar time, a diagnosis of Andrea's 'weak' legs was determined - orthostatic tremor, a rare movement disorder impacting her ability to support herself when standing.
These medical conditions, unfortunately, have placed some limitations on their mobility. Andrea's ability to do some jobs around the house has reduced, as has Dave's ability to work in the garden and walk around for long periods of time.
In the initial stages, Andrea and Dave's family helped the couple by doing some of the household chores that had become a little difficult. While the family were happy to help their parents and enjoyed the scones and jam that followed each visit, they were conscious of Andrea and Dave continuing to feel independent in their home.
In 2012, Dave and Andrea contacted My Aged Care to be assessed for Government-subsidised home support. They received funding for a level 2 and level 3 Home Care Package respectively.
The support delivered by the funding has empowered Dave and Andrea to remain living safely and independently in their home.
"It does hurt your pride when you have to ask someone to help you with the gardening. It is hard to let go and be humble," Dave shares.
However, they both agree the supports their packages provide have enabled them to stay connected in the community, while their home continues to provide the familiarity and freedom they both love. And visits from the family can focus on spending quality time together rather than completing jobs.
Andrea and Dave heard of Carinity through the Baptist Church they attend and had no hesitation in engaging the locally-based Brisbane South team, led by Coordinator Bronwyn Dagnall, to ensure they receive the support they need at home, along with the shopping and gardening visits.
"It's lovely coming home to a home that is neatly kept on the outside and inside," Andrea shares.
One of the highlights of their days are the visits from their Carinity Home Care carer, Christine. It's a mutually enjoyed time together.
"I really do look forward to Christine coming. She's just so bright and positive and we have such a fun time together," Andrea said.
Christine and Andrea chat over coffee, sharing stories and endless crafting tips as Christine does the ironing and changes the bedsheets. This is followed by Christine and Dave time, heading to do the weekly groceries.
"I just love being out with people, but my stiff knees slow me down. Christine helps me get out, and we get the job done quicker," Dave said.
Andrea and Dave don't let anything stop them. Together with Carinity Home Care they actively seek ways to overcome any hurdles, so they can get back to getting the most out of their days doing what they want.
30 years of making a real difference
Andrea and Dave share a special anniversary with Carinity during 2024 - it is their 30th wedding anniversary in September and this year also represents 30 years of Carinity Home Care making a real difference to the lives of thousands of Queensland seniors by helping them remain living independently at home.
From humble beginnings in the Ipswich and West Moreton region in 1994, Carinity Home Care has grown to support seniors right across Queensland - from Cairns to the New South Wales border, and out to Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.
Our commitment to ensuring seniors like Andrea and Dave live the life they love in the home and community they love is as strong as it was 30 years ago, and we look forward to making a positive impact in the lives of Queensland seniors for many years to come.
