Multicultural Care: Pathway to Independent Living

Patricia Burkitt has been receiving her Home Care Package (HCP) through Multicultural Care for almost a year. Initially hesitant to apply for assistance, she soon realised the vital role it plays in her life, especially after a fall and dealing with severe skin cancers and gout. At 93 years of age, Patricia acknowledges that she needs more help than she originally thought.

“I left it very late to apply for something like [the HCP]. I didn't think I needed it, but I was in denial and I really have needed it. And I've certainly needed help with getting to doctors and things like that because I had a fall and I've had a lot of trouble with skin cancers on one leg and the other leg has had gout, which has been terrible.”

Living independently in a terrace house, Patricia faces several challenges. The house, though old and not ideally suited to her needs, has been adapted to some extent. But her main difficulty lies in getting to her medical appointments. Her mobility issues prevent her from using taxis, and she requires assistance to attend these crucial visits.

“I worry about [missing appointments] a lot because it's awfully hard. If you don't turn up for an appointment, you've lost a place. They won't give you another appointment easily or quickly,” she said.

Multicultural Care has been instrumental in providing her with transportation, ensuring she never misses an appointment. Before receiving the HCP, Patricia managed well on her own but now finds it increasingly difficult. Her short-term memory issues add to her anxiety about forgetting appointments and paying bills. Despite these challenges, she remains resilient and resourceful, with the support of friends who assist with shopping and other needs.

To help her, Multicultural Care provides Patricia with several essential services.

“Multicultural Care has been brilliant with giving me help medically. They've given me a nurse. I have some wounds on the leg with the skin cancer that will not heal, and I might even need an operation on that leg. They've sent a nurse to dress the wounds for me. And the other thing is I've had a terrific physiotherapist who helped me with the fall and has been just brilliant with me. And she comes every two weeks.”

Multicultural Care also provides a driver for her medical appointments, alleviating her worries about transportation. She truly appreciates the help she receives, particularly the medical assistance and transportation. There is also a gardener who helps maintain a large hedge around her property, enhancing her safety. Patricia feels that the HCP has significantly improved her situation, allowing her to manage her daily life more effectively.

Her story highlights the invaluable support provided by Multicultural Care, enabling her to live independently while receiving the necessary assistance to address her medical and personal needs.

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