Caring and taking a break from caring, looks different to everyone. And time out for Verley MacGregor is running into the waves at a Mount Martha beach early each morning with a group of women friends all howling like wolves!
Verley, who cares for her husband Bob, is a member of Sea Wolves – a group of up to 80 fun-loving women who do just that.
“It’s exhilarating!” she says.
During National Carers Week (October 15-21), Uniting AgeWell is highlighting the range of supports it offers carers, like Verley, in what can be a difficult and exhausting journey. Knowing there is support every step of the way can bring carers a sense of relief and peace of mind.
“Our families are scattered across the world, so when it comes to looking after Bob, I’m it!” she laughs.
“But of course I couldn’t do it without Uniting AgeWell in my corner. They’re great!”
Bob, 83, has Alzheimer’s disease and receives services through his home care package with Uniting AgeWell. While he’s receiving personal care in the morning, Verley nips out for her swim, and when he attends the social connections program at Uniting AgeWell Andrew Kerr Care Day Centre in Mornington twice a week, Verley has time to sort things out at home.
When Verley was recovering from surgery, Bob was able to access longer stay respite at the Andrew Kerr Care residential care facility.
No matter where you live in Melbourne, there is help at hand. See www.unitingagewell.org or call 1300 783 435.
