Reclaiming Independence with Multicultural Care

Michael Fletcher has always valued his independence. As a Member of the Order of Australia (OAM), Mike has been recognised for his many contributions in the community. But as his mobility declined, he found himself increasingly housebound and frustrated. Navigating the complexities of healthcare and support services can be daunting, especially when facing limitations in transport and accessibility.

“We had major issues with transport because my personal doctor and hospital medical specialists - one for more than 15 years - are apparently now outside our area as are my social activities and most of my friends.

“That meant the transport company assigned to me for our suburb can’t take me to the most important places I need and want to go. In fact, I have never been able to use them for a single thing,” Mike said.

Because of this, he couldn't enjoy his regular social activities, including meeting with friends, which further isolated him.

“Some medical services said to be in our area were more than double or treble the distance away and, in the case of one hospital we were made to go to, it did not have any parking close enough for me to walk to appointments or appropriate public transport I could use to get there and back.

“I am only able to drive short distances and I don’t drive at night. My partner works full-time so this was becoming an extremely stressful situation for us both.”

Feeling trapped at home was disheartening. His mobility was deteriorating, and he struggled to access essential services like physiotherapy, Pilates, or any exercise program. After Mike’s hospital stay late last year, his need for rehabilitation became critical. The initial arrangement of three half-hour sessions was insufficient, and Mike's condition worsened.

Despite their efforts for over 18 months, Mike did not receive any assistance. Fortunately, the Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) program, which Multicultural Care quickly organised, provided Mike with a lifeline.

A skilled Pilates instructor began visiting Mike twice weekly. Her guidance on walking, standing, and strengthening essential muscles was invaluable. Almost immediately, Mike noticed significant improvements in his posture and mobility.

"Though I still have occasional bad days, I now stand straighter and move better, which makes me happy – and I get to go out and enjoy life more. In addition to Pilates, a carer visits fortnightly to assist with domestic tasks. He comes in and does the heavy things like vacuuming and floor steam cleaning plus a bathroom clean. He can also make the bed if I need it. It takes a lot of pressure off me. He even reset my new watch in a minute!"

An occupational therapist also visited Mike and suggested useful adjustments, including a new mattress to ease getting in and out of bed. What Mike really appreciated with the whole experience was the collaborative way Multicultural Care handled his care.

"What I liked most was they didn’t force things on me but discussed what would work in my life as well and made suggestions. There used to be a lot more stress in our lives as we tried to get just a little help to make things easier and be happier. Now, with a little help, I feel like I have re-found some of my independence and I’m enjoying things more,” he added.

Taxi dockets have been particularly helpful, enabling Mike to go out at night or in the rain to meet friends. He can also use them for medical appointments or social club visits when he runs out of energy. This small measure has restored a sense of freedom and independence. Mike's experience is a testament to the challenges many face and the transformative power of timely and compassionate support.

"I know it’s only a simple thing, but it feels like I’m free again and independent. The people I have been dealing with, especially Neriza and the STRC team, have been very professional and have really helped me.”

Find out more about Multicultural Care