Support that feels like home

“I love living here with my friends, it’s my dream house,” says Cathy*, beaming as she flips through a photo book filled with memories from the past four years.

Cathy shares her spacious and modern supported independent living home with Maria*, 56, and Jennifer*, 54. Together, the three women live independently with tailored support from Centacare. Our team understands that this is their home and is so much more than bricks and mortar. It’s a place where residents can feel relaxed and confident, knowing they have the everyday support they need. It’s a safe haven — a space filled with friendship, laughter and everyday moments worth celebrating.

Cathy, who recently turned 60, has lived in the area most of her life and spent many years working locally in retail. With her outgoing personality and infectious sense of humour, Cathy is a people-person and values family and friendship. “This was the best birthday,” she says, pointing to a photo of her recent party. “I invited lots of friends, my two sisters and of course, Maria and Jennifer.” One of Cathy’s support workers helped her create the album, capturing a day full of joy and connection.

As Cathy turns the pages, Jennifer laughs and spots another memory: “Oh look this is move-in day!” Over the years, the trio have celebrated many milestones together including birthdays, holidays and Maria’s retirement. “This was our first Christmas in the house,” Maria recalls another happy snap fondly.

The home hums with a sense of community. “The ladies love to cook for each other and take it in turns preparing weeknight dinner,” said Centacare support worker Liz. “I support Cathy on Wednesdays, her roast dinners are always a hit.”

“They’ll have a good chat over dinner about their days out in the community and even travel adventures,” adds Liz. Cathy has visited Hong Kong and Jennifer recently returned from a cruise with her family.

“We always have plenty to talk about,” says Jennifer, who volunteers once a week at the local op shop. “I’m a shopaholic, so sometimes I buy more than I should!” she jokes.

Maria, Cathy and Jennifer enjoy afternoon tea with support from Liz

Liz supports Maria, Cathy and Jennifer to enjoy afternoon tea together.

Cathy and support worker Liz preparing dinner

Centacare support worker Liz works alongside Cathy to prepare a delicious dinner.

Jennifer, Cathy and support worker Liz take a walk to the local shops to pick up supplies.

Liz supports Jennifer to find what she needs at the local pharmacy.

Cathy takes the opportunity for a spot of shopping during a trip to the pharmacy with support worker Liz.

With support from Centacare, the ladies keep on top of chores such as laundry, one of Maria's favourite jobs!

With the right support in place from Centacare, all three women lead active social lives and enjoy planning their busy weekends. Every other Sunday, Cathy, Maria and Jennifer will take a day trip together, along with their support workers. Some of their favourite outings include the movies, bowling and lunch at the local club.

Music, movement and creativity are also central to life in the home. The women love watching Australian Idol together and reminiscing about their own performing pasts. Jennifer danced ballet as a child and once performed in shows. Maria still brings her childhood dream of being on stage to life through a performing arts group, taking part in two concerts each year and she enjoys weekly dancercise classes. Cathy shares how her uncle taught her ballroom dancing as a child.

The three friends working together and with support from their Centacare care team, they take pride in keeping their home clean and welcoming. Maria especially enjoys doing laundry, sweeping and watering the garden. She uses a visual board to help plan her week’s activities including her chores and to support communication.

Their dedicated Centacare care team, walking alongside the three women, help them to live life to the fullest. Whether it’s assistance with chores, personal care, meal preparation, communication or helping on outings, Centacare support enables Cathy, Maria and Jennifer to focus on what matters to them most.

“The ladies have a wonderful time together,” says support worker Helai. “They look out for one another and make this house a true home.”

*Real client names are not used for privacy reasons.

Centacare offer a variety of home and living options to suit a range of people and circumstances. From drop-in support that’s available when you need it, to holistic services with clinical expertise, we get the balance right for you. Explore our home and living options.