Starting to receive aged care support at home may feel like a big step, especially when you've been living independently for a long time. Skye knew that feeling well. But when she made the decision to find support through Mable, it became more than practical daily support - it helped her slowly rebuild her confidence and feel less lonely.
Skye shares her story below.
Skye's change of situation
Before she found support through Mable, Skye says "she was living alone and isolating" herself and "finding daily life increasingly difficult."
She was managing several chronic health conditions, including bursitis, sciatica, arthritis, COPD and emphysema. Walking had become painful and breathing difficulties made everyday tasks harder.
"I stopped cooking and cleaning because it was too hard. I also stopped going out because I felt extremely anxious about going out on my own," she says. "It felt easier and more comfortable to stay sitting in a chair."
It was at this point she realised something needed to change.
Asking for help was the first step
Before finding support through Mable, Skye had not really looked into other support options.
"I felt unsure where to start and lacked the confidence to reach out. I mostly managed on my own even though I was struggling."
After receiving a Home Care Package previously (now Support at Home), she felt it was time to take the step of looking for help. She began her search for aged care support services online and came across the Mable platform.
"What made me decide to give it a try was how easy it was to navigate. I also liked that I could choose my own support workers," she says.
When she posted a job for independent support workers on the platform, Skye says she received plenty of replies.
"This gave me the opportunity to choose people who felt like the best fit for me."
Creating the right support team
Starting out, Skye felt it was easier to take it slowly when building her support team.
"I initially asked for domestic assistance, and later for help with gardening," she says.
Over time, social support also became an important part of her routine.
"My support workers take me out twice a week, which has made a big difference to my wellbeing," she explains.
These outings also keep Skye active, a key part in helping her manage her health conditions. At first, she tried going to the gym with her support worker, but realised it wasn't right for her.
"My support worker suggested going to an outdoor exercise park instead. That experience suited me much better," she smiles.
Skye says the support she's received has changed many parts of her life.
"After years of self-inflicted isolation, I am now regularly going out. Being taken out for exercise and walks has brought me back to life and improved my mobility. I feel more active and capable again. I have even made some friends!"
Advice about accepting support at home
When Skye first began receiving support at home, it took her a little time to get used to the process.
"I was nervous about letting strangers into my home. It felt uncomfortable as I was used to being alone. But over time, I became more confident and at ease," she explains. "It felt like my support workers became my friends."
When Skye thinks about the biggest difference in-home support has made, one moment stands out.
"It was when I allowed myself to accept social support. I realised how much it could improve my wellbeing," she says.
"I don't feel as alone anymore, and have a lovely team of support workers looking after me. It's given me more confidence, comfort, safety, and reassurance in my everyday life," she explains.
Practical support has made a difference too. With her home and garden looked after, Skye feels a big burden has been lifted from her shoulders.
"I feel more comfortable and in control of my environment," she says.
For Skye, support became easier to accept once she found people who felt like the right match for her. While it took time to feel ready, she says reaching out was worth it. Her advice to others who are hesitant about looking for aged care support is simple:
"You just have to ask. There are many independent support workers who are willing and ready to help you right away through Mable. It's flexible and allows you to choose the support that best suits your needs," she says.
"I'm very grateful for the support I've received through Mable. It has made a real difference to my life."
Get the right support for your needs
If you're like Skye and feel extra support could help you stay independent at home, you can use Mable to find independent support workers in your area. Browse support worker profiles, post a job and interview workers to see if they match your needs and lifestyle.
Learn more about the support you can find on Mable.
