There is a lot that brings Josephine Leitch joy, the click of knitting needles, a catch-up with friends, a concert to look forward to, and the chance to share a laugh with the people around her. Support at Home has given her the opportunity to continue doing what she loves.
At 84 years young, Josephine has built a rich and rewarding life centred around family, friendship and creativity. With the right support at home, she is continuing to enjoy the people, activities and routines that matter most to her.
Born in the United Kingdom, Josephine migrated to Australia with her husband and two young daughters when she was 27. The family first settled in Melbourne before later moving to Sydney, where Josephine still calls home today.
These days, knitting is one of Josephine’s greatest passions. “I’m constantly knitting for friends,” she says. “I even put some things online to sell.”
When she is not busy with knitting needles in hand, Josephine enjoys spending time with friends and attending concerts and social outings, keeping active and connected with her community.
Over time, arthritis made everyday tasks around the home harder to manage. “Because of the arthritis, I’m not able to stand or walk without a walker,” Josephine explains. “Things like vacuuming or changing the bed became impossible for me to do on my own.”
After an assessment through My Aged Care, Josephine was encouraged to seek support at home. Following recommendations from others, she contacted Care Connect and soon found practical help that suited her needs.
Since becoming a client, Josephine says her Care Connect team has made a real difference to her daily life.
“My care manager has been wonderful,” she says. “If I need something extra, they’re always there to help.”
Care Connect has helped Josephine access support that makes daily life easier and safer at home, from organising equipment such as a new walker, to helping her trial and arrange a more suitable chair.
One support that brought an unexpected lift was having her windows professionally cleaned. “They hadn’t been done for quite a while,” Josephine says. “That was something my care manager suggested, and I was very pleased.”
For Josephine, it is not only the support itself that matters, it is also knowing that help is easy to reach when she needs it. “Whenever I call, everyone is so helpful. They look up who I need to speak to and get me through as quickly as possible. I really can’t complain.” With support around the home, Josephine has more time and energy for the things she enjoys most, spending time with family, catching up with friends and knitting for the people she cares about.
Asked what she enjoys most about life these days, Josephine’s response is delivered with her trademark sense of humour. “Well, I’m still breathing, that’s a plus,” she laughs.
She also enjoys cooking the occasional family favourite, including a special meatloaf recipe loved by her daughter and her partner. When asked if she would recommend Care Connect to others looking for support at home, her answer is immediate. “Oh, absolutely. I have done already.”