George and Emmy met on a blind date set-up by one of Emmy’s work friends from the Mt Henry Hospital. Emmy, originally from Holland, had only been in Australia for six months before she met George the Aussie; four years later the couple were married. They’ve now been happily married for 60 years and have seen their family grow from four children to 14 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren with the 17th great grandchild on the way!
The couple, who are both in their 80s, have been Amana Living home care clients since 2017 when George was sick and their doctor suggested they both needed to have an ACAT assessment. George has dementia, epilepsy, emphysema, and a twisted oesophagus, while Emmy has lymphedema, a crumbling spine, and arthritis.
Originally the couple were both approved for a level 2 home care package, but they are both now on a level 4 package.
Emmy initially got help with showering as she had hurt her shoulder. Now she also gets physio every week too, which has been remarkable. “The physio has been fantastic. He does acupuncture on my knees and hips, as well as massages my legs. I could barely walk 15 months ago but I can now walk without a walking stick,” she said.
The couple also get transport from Amana Living and go to the Harman Park Community Centre for regular morning teas and lunches with the friends they’ve made at the club over seven years. Emmy teaches craft at the club, while George takes part in the club’s Men’s Group and goes out on trips to Hillarys Boat Harbour, York, GinGin and more.
Additionally, Amana Living provides George with home help, gardening, and social support. “It’s great to have the extra assistance and I like having the girls here. If they see the dishes need doing, they’ll just do it which gives me an hour for a shower. Or they’ll make us a cup of tea and it’s a comfort knowing we’re not alone. We have family but we don’t like to burden them.
“The social support is good for George too. The same girl takes George out every week, which is important as he doesn’t like change. The continuity of staff is one of the things I like most about Amana Living.”
According to Emmy, Amana Living has helped them to buy an iPad, computer, a new bed, as well as install air conditioning. This was all paid out of their home care package funds with their client service manager even setting up the iPad for Emmy so it records all their home care visits so she knows when to expect Amana Living staff.
“It’s helped make life better for us, plus it’s about getting ready for the future. We’re not getting any younger and all the services and additional supports have helped us to become much more independent,” concluded Emmy.
