A new home for David and Chris

Chris and David’s needs

Chris and David are long-term friends and Northcott housemates. They have lived together for more than 7 years, initially in Carlingford, and since September 2022, in Oatlands.

Although the pair were comfortable and happy in Carlingford, a review of their living situation revealed things had changed over time and their home no longer fully supported their needs.

Due to weakening of his knee joints, David needed better support while walking around the home. He also had limited opportunities to socialise with the other residents living there.

“David was participating in an arts and craft day program 4 days a week to meet his social needs. He is 60 years old and it was time that he started experiencing social outings to enjoy and relax, rather than learn and create,” says Alan, David’s brother.

For Chris, a lack of communal areas around the home was impacting his opportunity to socialise.

A more suitable option

After Chris and David’s Northcott team put the word out about finding a new home, two vacancies came up in a five-bedroom purpose-built Northcott house in Oatlands, just 10 minutes from where they were living. The team felt the home and current residents were a perfect match for Chris and David – allowing them to live as independently as possible and experience a socially abundant life.

“Not only are the current residents, Guy and Graeme, of similar ages to David and Chris, but they also have similar social needs such as engaging in smaller group outings rather than centre based programs,” explains Alys, Service Coordinator at the Oatlands home.

“The wall rail system built around the house is also a great solution to keep David more mobile while living as independently as possible. This home also has a separate section with two rooms and a common area so David and Chris can have their own space within the larger home.”

The transition

Before Chris and David could move into the new home, significant work had to be done to ensure the change would lead to a better life for everyone.

Alys started liaising with all the stakeholders, including talking with the families of the customers to highlight the benefits for Chris and David. Once all families agreed to the move, Chris and David regularly visited the Oatlands house to start to feel comfortable and get to know their new housemates.

“For the move itself, we set up Chris and David’s rooms to help make the transition more comfortable. On the day of the move, we planned a picnic to bring all the housemates together. It was an epic day for everyone,” Alys remembers.

Positive outcomes for all

David and Chris are now living in a newer, purpose-built home that better meets their needs, with closer proximity to shops, the local pharmacy and access to transport.

“It’s great how, despite the move, I have been able to keep my life going – my doctors, my work, my favourite restaurants,” says Chris.

“In my opinion, the most important benefit of the move is an enriched quality of life for all residents. The group community access and social interactions for all residents have increased. Since their needs and goals match, all four of them can enjoy the outdoors by visiting Sydney’s surrounds rather than participating in centre based programs,” says Alys.

Chris and David’s families are also happy with the outcome.

“Change can be daunting and challenging but ultimately, this change has delivered great outcomes for everyone. I am extremely happy with the staff at Northcott and am confident that my brother is well taken care of,” says Alan, David’s brother.