As a mother of three grown children, Pat has spent her life nurturing and caring for those around her.
However, she has never seen herself as a carer, instead she said it's just a natural part of being a mother.
“Being a caregiver is a constant role, a support and a guide, and I wouldn’t have it any other way,” she said.
Pat has been the sole carer for her son Jason, 53, who has been a friendly face around Minda since he was 21 years old.
She saw Minda as a place where Jason could receive support, participate in activities and access services that would help him develop his skills, socially, physically and creatively.
When Jason first joined Minda in 1992, he took part in the supported employment program and was tasked with assembling parts in a workshop.
“Jason is a creature of routine, he needs it. Our life has always been about routine so him doing this repetitive task as part of the program was a good activity for him,” Pat said.
Jason also loved spending time at the old Craigburn Farm property in Blackwood where he could get his hands dirty in the garden, try crafts, and explore the plant nursery next door.
“That was the most fulfilling, joyful, and memorable period of his life,” Pat recalled.
“Being a caregiver is a constant role, a support and a guide, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Nowadays, Jason’s week is all full of activities to promote physical health and wellbeing and skills development such as cooking, sanding of furniture, tool skills, and crafts.
“The family gets very excited seeing Jason engaged in doing something he enjoys. Seeing him happy, makes us happy for him too,” she said.
However, Pat recently experienced declining heath and last year began the process of looking into support options for Jason.
Despite the in-depth process, in June this year, Jason moved into Supported Independent Living, opening a new world of opportunities including meeting three new housemates and empowering him to live as independently as he can.
“I understand Jason better than most so I always said I would care for him as long as I could cope at home,” Pat said.
“But I was at the point of looking for that extra support, I always had that in mind for him.”
Four months on and Pat said she couldn’t be happier with how Jason has settled into his new surroundings.
“Of course, with anything new there is an adjustment period, but Jason has made some strong friendships with his housemates. I feel as if the pressure has been lifted knowing Jason is happy and has settled in well.”
“I understand Jason better than most so I always said I would care for him as long as I could cope at home. But I was at the point of looking for that extra support, I always had that in mind for him.”
Minda can help you find the right house that’s suitable to your needs and preferences, with housemates that have shared interests and with the support you require.
Supported independent living can be a valuable step in preparing for the future, ensuring that the individual has the skills and support necessary to live independently after their parents may no longer be able to provide care.
Minda Home & Living Support (Supported Independent Living) can be provided in your own home, in private rentals or in Minda accommodation.