Getting help to remain independent

Steve* a 97-year-old resident of Mornington was referred to the Care Finder by concerned
neighbours. They reported that Steve was living in neglect, wore the same outfit covered in food
and urine stains each time the neighbours visited him, and they were concerned about his diet.

Upon meeting Steve, the Care Finder team member was faced with resistance and he initially
refused help. Despite this, the Care finder team member persisted, meeting him weekly over
several months, gradually building rapport.

With Steve’s consent, the Care Finder contacted My Aged Care and discovered that a support
worker from a local service provider who was concerned about Steve’s cognitive decline. The Care
finder team member learned that despite numerous service attempts, the client refused
assistance, relying solely on his neighbours.

The Care finder team member was informed of the number of unpaid utility bills that resulted in
his phone disconnected. He was being harassed by debt collectors. Despite owing money, services
like Meals on Wheels and other community services continued to support him.

A comprehensive referral was initiated, connecting Steve with vital services to address his
multifaceted needs including local health district supports, aged care assessment, Occupational
Therapists, Meals on Wheels. She also arranged for volunteers with the Meals on Wheels to assist
with meal heating and arranged with a Community Support Centre to deliver food parcels for the
weekend.

The Care finder team member coordinated a care team meeting with all service providers
involved. Together, they established tasks for each organisation and the Care finder team member
to coordinate and oversee the client’s care needs. The Care finder team member and the
Community Support worker accompanied Steve to the bank, paying some bills and arranging a
direct debit card. Unfortunately, there are still challenges with paying some of Steve’s other bills
as no person has his Power of Attorney and he is unable to verify his identity to authorise
payments due to his advanced dementia.

The Care finder completed a support plan review to enable Steve to access a Home Care Package
(HCP). She has advocated with My Aged Care for an urgent assessment which was promptly
completed given the urgency of this case.

Through Care finder team member’s efforts, Steve was assessed and granted a Home Care
Package Level 4, ensuring comprehensive support. Services were increased to include personal
care, shopping, and bill payments.

Since the initial engagement, Steve’s situation has improved significantly. He received the care
and support he desperately needed, enabling him to live safely and independently at home.
Through collaboration with various stakeholders, the Care finder team member ensured that
Steve’s well-being and quality of life were prioritised.

*Name and other identifiable information have been changed and consent of the person was
obtained to share the case study.