All articles on the topic of ‘Experiences of the care system’

Lament for lost choices

15 June 2007 | Edited by Vera Bolter, an older person on the Newcastle Elders Council

If only I’d known I had a choice, I wouldn’t have come here to the care home.

I could have told them what I really would like, but I just had to fit in with what they wanted. They didn’t say it to my face but I’m sure they had me down as one of those bed blockers. And my family said I must not go on living alone. (more…)

Preparing for a change of lifestyle

29 May 2007 | Val Shepherd, an older person who has lived in a care home for the past 17 years

Having decided to live in a residential home and arranged which of my treasured lifetime possessions to take with me, I knew it was up to me to adjust to this great change in my lifestyle.

There was naturally some apprehension. However, my lasting impression of my move to the care home is one of extraordinary relief.

I feel relief at knowing help is at hand day and night, relief that I need not feel alone, relief at no more waiting at bus stops in the rain, relief that my family are assured that I am safe and cared for. (more…)