Marilyn thrives with her Care Partner

Most people want to keep living life on their own terms as they age, preferably from the comfort of the home and community they know and love. But navigating home care – understanding your options and accessing the right mix of supports and services can feel stressful and, at times, overwhelming. 

For Centacare client Marilyn, 81, having a dedicated Care Partner that walks alongside her to manage her care and funding has made all the difference.  

Marilyn receives government subsidised home care via a Home Care Package and Care Partner Jules has been by Marilyn’s side for three years.  

With a good understanding of Marilyn’s goals, budget and care plan, Jules coordinates the services and supports Marilyn needs to keep enjoying life from her Caboolture home. Jules gathers and manages a multi-disciplinary care team, consisting of qualified support workers, nurses, therapists and tradespeople – whomever is needed to keep Marilyn ticking along from home.  

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Marilyn first reached out to Centacare in 2012 when her late husband needed small changes around the home, like grab rails and assistance in the garden to help him feel safer and more confident. 

Sometime after, Marilyn experienced a serious health setback and spent time in intensive care. It was a challenging time and Centacare organised additional care. Support with personal care, domestic assistance and meal delivery meant that Marilyn was able to focus on recovering and rebuilding her health. 

“Regular check-ins are an essential part of our role as care partners,” said Jules. “Things change; circumstances change. We closely monitor our clients’ care needs and adjust their plan or even advocate on their behalf should there be a case for additional government funding.” 

Over the years, Jules has organised for Centacare’s qualified tradespeople to undertake further modifications at Marilyn’s home. “I went through a period of falling and when I fell, I hurt myself,” said Marilyn. “I’ve had ramps and non-slip flooring installed and I now feel confident to move safely around the house using my wheelie walker.” 

Marilyn has always lived a full and active life, surrounded by family, friends and community. Together with her late husband, she ran several businesses while raising their family, a rewarding chapter that helped shape the lively, people-focused way she approaches life today. 

“I’ve always liked being around people,” said Marilyn. “A sense of community is important to me and I think it’s vital as we age.”  

Tradesperson installs grab rail at Marilyn's front door

“Marilyn values her independence,” said Jules. “She attends pottery classes, a sewing group and often sees her friends who live close by. She especially enjoys going to the gym, so I’ve looked at ways to help sustain that for her, including adding physio, occupational therapy and nursing support to her care package.”  

“The gym keeps me going both physically and mentally,” Marilyn explains. “I feel better after every session, and Jules helped make it happen.”  

Are you new to home care?

Jules and Marilyn discuss Marilyn's care needs.

Support at Home coming 1 November 2025

In preparation for the launch of Support at Home on 1 November 2025, our Care Partners are ready to meet with you or your loved one. We’ll step you through each part of the care management process and answer any questions you have – we are here to make sure you get the best possible outcomes from your funding and live a full and active life from the home you love.

One of our qualified Care Partners will:

- Meet with you, your family or wider support network
- Design your personalised care plan
- Organise your services and build your care team
- Check-in regularly to ensure that supports are working for you
- Advocate for you as your needs change and adjust your support as needed
- Make sure you feel confident and fully informed every step of the way.

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