Independence (and crosswords) are the keys to a happy life

“Fiercely independent” is how 82-year-old Southcare star Noreen describes herself as well as a “chatterbox who loves people”. She spent her younger years in an orphanage, went on to have seven children of her own and worked right up until she was aged 77, as a carer.
“Caring is in my nature – I do it for everyone around me. Always have!” she says.
“I always knew I wanted a big family; as didn’t really have one when I was a child, and that has certainly come true with 20 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren.
“I like helping people, my family, my husband, my friends, but never thought I needed help myself, I was too independent to understand or accept that I needed it.
“Making the decision to accept care as I got older was difficult,” she says.
A stay in hospital was the catalyst for Noreen’s family to investigate personal care for her and after being assessed and choosing Southcare as her provider, she says she hasn’t looked back since.
“I have come to realise that spending time doing things I love like chilling out and doing the crossword or getting lost in a book are more enjoyable than doing housework!
“Put it this way: I would much rather get 6 down than take the washing down!” she laughs.
She has lived in her unit for 22 years and has no plans to leave.
“I love it here, I know the area, know my neighbours, and everything I need is close by.
“I don’t drive anymore but Southcare takes me to the shops and to medical appointments, and the social support they provide is the best because we talk about everything that matters to me.
“I talk and my carers listen, really listen and I feel valued and heard, it’s wonderful,” she says.
After an accident where she severed the tendons in her arm a few years ago, it’s become hard for Noreen to do everyday things like vacuuming or hanging out the washing. She also needs help showering.
“Getting care was the smart choice because doing things at home became more difficult.
Southcare does things that I can no longer do and that is great because it lets me focus on the things I can do to keep living my best life!
Read more about Southcare Stars Shirley and Richard and how they choose to live their best lives too.
With Southcare, the choice is yours. Reach out to discover the many options available and let us help you to live your best life.