Page 12 - allcare Connect

ALLCARE FEATURES
Q&A with Neredah Norton
Neredah is a Client representative on our allcare Client Advisory Committee, as well as our WH&S and Quality Improvement Committees.
Q. How did you come to be a client representative with allcare?
A. I wanted to share my experiences in the hope that others can benefit. I’m in a unique position to be able to do that, as I have a background in the aged care sector – I held
a Cert III in Aged Care. My parents received aged care services, so I experienced the system as a family member. They were treated so
well, and I want other older people to receive that standard of care. Also, now I need some support as a client myself, so I can see ‘both sides of the fence’.
Q. What was your background in aged care?
A. My background was in aged care was called ‘Diversional’ care, which is getting older people involved in activities, exercise, and getting out-and-about. I have always enjoyed talking with older people and I relate well with them
– I always have. I was a Girl Guide when I was very young, and it all started there: visiting older people and listening to their stories.
12 allcare Connect newsletter Winter 2020
Q. How did you come to be a client of allcare?
A. I started to have a few falls, and so I had an ACAT * assessment. Then I received a referral to allcare. I hadn’t heard of them before then. Deanna from allcare actually came to visit me, and explained everything in person, which I really appreciated.
Q. What do you like about allcare?
A. The staff do great work. They have a sense of humour but also empathy. They show care and consideration to their clients.
Q. Tell us a bit about your background.
A. In my past, as well as my full time job based in Canberra, I was in the Army Reserve for 10 years. I was very active and used to love going ‘bush bashing’ and drove a Mac truck and also a Unimog offroad vehicle! I also loved playing hockey, and played for over 30 years.
Q. What do you enjoy doing now?
A. I enjoy going for drives with my allcare Community Support Worker, Sharon. We go out together for some fresh air. I like driving myself too – I like to feel I’m in control, and it makes me feel independent. I still love hockey too - I watch games, and cheer on the Australian team.
Q. What’s your advice to live by?
A. When in doubt, do it now. Don’t put it off
until tomorrow!
* A comprehensive assessment with an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT). Find out more at: https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/assessment