WITH the region’s population progressively aging, independent living options are becoming increasingly important to quality of life outcomes in residents’ twilight years.
Finding the right solution was a challenge faced by Thelma Johns after years of living independently following the death of her husband.
After moving from her family home in Glencoe to a smaller unit in the heart of Mount Gambier, Ms Johns felt isolated and started the search for a new home.
Calling her daughter to help, Ms Johns explored retirement options in the region before settling on Abbeyfield House in early 2018.
“We got to Abbeyfield and I turned to my daughter and told her we need not look any further because this was where I was going to live,” she said.
“There was a beautiful atmosphere, everyone was warm and welcoming and I felt at home right away.
“I knew this was where I wanted to be so we made the appropriate arrangements so I could move in as soon as possible.”
Located on Francis Street in the Blue Lake city, Abbeyfield House is an independent-living facility for people over 55 years of age who are capable of living in their own homes, but are looking for the company and security of shared accommodation.
Currently home to nine elderly residents, the home can cater for up to 11 with an additional detached granny-flat also on the grounds.
Now living in the facility for more than a year, Ms Johns said it is the perfect place for her.
Ms Johns said she spends most of her days keeping busy crocheting, doing crosswords or going on outings with fellow residents.
“We are quite a tight-knit group,” she said.
“There are a few of us ladies that go to the Ascot Club once a week.
“We make quite the day out of it, we go for lunch, we chat about interesting topics, we enjoy each other’s company, it is just a whole lot of fun.”
On days where Ms Johns feels like some alone time, she is able to retreat back to her bedroom and catch up on her favourite television programs or do some gardening in the backyard.
Abbeyfield Mount Gambier chairman Mike Baxter said the home was the perfect place for those who do not need to live in an assisted-living home but are ready to make a change.
“Our residents have as much freedom as they desire,” he said.
“They can come and go as they please, do as they please and enjoy life post-retirement, but with the security of living in an independent facility.
“We also have a housekeeper who cleans the communal areas and cooks two meals a day for the residents.
“I think it is something that can be looked over or forgotten with the amount of aged-care facilities we have here in the South East, but it definitely gives people another alternative.”
As one of seven members on the facility’s board, Mr Baxter said it is always welcoming new insight into the home.
“We are an aging board,” he said.
“I think it is always important to get fresh eyes and a different perspective on what we are doing.
“We would definitely encourage anyone with spare time wanting to make a difference to get in touch with us.”
