BIG RESPONSE TO FREE HOME SUPPORT INITIATIVE

A Miranda Smith Homecare initiative giving a set amount of free home support to Auckland seniors has fast been embraced and demonstrates the need for the services provided.

The initiative involves offering 20 hours of home-based support each month as a way of giving something back to the community, and it’s something we hope to be able to continue it into 2012.

It targets people in greater Auckland who would usually not be in a position to finance it themselves, and who will see an improvement to their quality of life as a result.

Clients are referred by a range of outfits or individuals, assessed by our Auckland team on a first-in first-served basis, with consideration of where we can make the most difference and our ability to provide the appropriate services.

The eight initial recipients – both individuals and couples – have been experiencing a range of difficulties with day to day living including current injuries or illness, recovery from recent injuries or illness, borderline dementia, mental health problems and arthritis.

The MS Homecare team has noted demand for the free services is high and there have been many more referrals than we have been able to accommodate.

High demand for home assistance comes at a time when district health boards have been cutting home support services due to funding pressures.

ENDS