The things you find at the museum

Southcare Star Richard proudly calls himself a “student of life” and so being here at the WA Museum Boola Bardip in the centre of Perth is food for his soul.

“I love learning, I love history and I love animals and this place has it all and then some!” Richard says.

“My first visit was spent just exploring the top floor which is where the wildlife collections are. Everything is so interactive which was wonderful.”

“My second visit was on the floor second to the top, so I am essentially working my way down all five levels to keep my learning up!”

When we asked Richard what his favourite part was, he replied the “membership and the companionship.”

You see, he signed up for a $10 WA Museum membership which entitles him to visit many other museums around town, and the companion-ship comes from Southcare as part of Richard’s social support service, in line with his assessed and approved care needs.

“My wife passed away six years ago, and we were married for 54 years so doing things like this with another caring person helps me take my mind off those times when I feel down, plus also keeps my mind active,” Richard says.

“I stopped driving a couple of years ago but have a transport card from Southcare which means I can get out when I need to, and the social support is so valued because I go out with my carer and we talk about life and all sorts of things.”

“Sitting at home alone inside the house is deadly,” Richard says.

“So, when Southcare arrive I am overjoyed!”

So, where is the next social outing?

“I think it will be the Maritime Museum in Fremantle and I hear that is also quite big so we might do that over a few days too.”

Never stop learning, talking, listening, and connecting Richard!

Senior’s Week runs from 12-19 November 2023.  How are you celebrating our seniors?