By Alan Russell
Each year we conduct a survey of our clients, and one of our volunteers on how our organisation can do more to help the clients and the volunteers.
We want each group to enjoy being part of our service to the Eurobodalla community.
Recently, the Aged Care Quality Standards Commission visited us over three days to assess what we are doing. Their report was wonderful, and we all felt very pleased with their comments.
As part of this process, clients were contacted by the Commission for feedback. Some told us what they were asked but one wrote a letter to tell of her experiences and of her gratitude.
She has allowed it to be shared.
Dear Alan,
Replying to your request for feedback about services I am getting from "Out and About".
I am new to the area having to leave our home, being a camp on an opal mining claim for 27 years, with health being the reason. Since being here I have been my husbands sole carer. While able to get my husband into heh van, I was able to manage but that of course didn't last long. Anglicare have been wonderful and without their help I dont know what I would have done. To cut a long story short....
My husband of 67 years passed away. The end of my world had come!
I could't talk, wouldn't leave the house. I just sat and cried and cried!
After 3 months of just wanting to die, my sons had had enough of me! Then along came "Out and About". No way!
I had no friends here, left them all at the Ridge! At this stage we had been here for three and a half years. The only people I had any contact with were the Chemist, Doctors, Hospital, IGA, and Vinnies.
The thought of mixing with a group of OLD people, going to clubs, hotels and on other outings just wasn't on my death wish!!
Well of course, under pressure the first trip was organised! Of course, the rest is history.
The lass who helped me into the bus was Cathy and she told me it was her first day and she was as nervous as me, but it was the best thing that happened to me!
With the bus full of all these OLD people, this was the first of my weekly social outings.
I get picked up right at my door, different places, wonderful stops, morning teas, hotels, and clubs for lunches (Still haven't found one who can cook real Fish and Chips! Having had a Fish and Chip shop on Manly Beach for 27 years, perhaps I am set in my ways about how REAL Fish and Chips should be cooked!)
They never stop planning our trips. Honestly, can't tell you how they mother us! It's like we are their parents (or children!)
It makes me feel ashamed I don't do anything to help them!
My Tuesday outings are my only social life and gives me something to look forward to. It's like we are all one big family. All the girls are so thoughtful, and the drivers know all the special little hideaways to make every trip special.
My two sons live in Batemans Bay and check only that "I'm still with it"! I'm sure such has been my mental state.
I was very isolated here. No friends and nothing to go out for. Going out with them for coffee made no sense, can have coffee at home.
I am now socially independent, part of a wonderful family. I have gone out more in 3 months than ever. Never had heard of 'Out and About' but sure do now.
I thank you all again. What would life be worth for us oldies without these wonderful volunteers. They sure make these oldies are very happy.
SC
“Like all organisations, we like the positive comments and feedback. We also act upon the negative comments so to improve. It is all part of the Continuous Improvement cycle expected of Aged Care organisations after the Royal Commission recommendations,” said Manager Alan Russell.
“But this lady highlights the majority who view of the benefits of the services offered by Eurobodalla Meals on Wheels as helpful, supportive and family focused.”