Since entering respite care at Aeralife Northcote, Carolin Buchanan has found inspiration in “ageing powerfully” and giving back to aged care.
Overcoming preconceived ideas about residential aged care
At 67, Carolin is one of the youngest residents in our Northcote home. After a stroke, she entered respite care at Aeralife Northcote, then went into full-time care. Helped by her brother, Michael, and our staff, she overcame her initial fears and concerns about aged care.
“I had preconceived ideas about aged care,” Carolin says.
Before her accident, Carolin led a very active life as a sales professional and amateur body builder. Her passion for exercise and diet was complemented by a love of clothes.
After a three-week stint in respite care, Carolin realised that going home and having falls wouldn’t work, and that full-time care was the best thing for her safety and wellbeing. The fact that her 90-year-old mother was a resident in the Northcote home gave her added purpose.
Finding independence in respite and full-time care
Carolin’s initial journey in aged care was challenging. She missed her home and job and was a self-confessed “nightmare” for carers at first. But she soon applied her considerable willpower, adopting a positive and empowering attitude, and a second chance at life which has been a gift.
Carolin strives to improve every day to maintain her walking. She attributes her physical improvement to the dedication and care of the Aeralife staff and will never forget so many staff waiting outside for her when she first arrived at the Northcote home.
“I love the independence Aeralife gives me and how I’m allowed to manage what I can,” Carolin says.
“Aeralife has eased the burden of care for my family and has helped me live my best life. It has also ended the loneliness of being at home.
“This is a home away from home that provides me with safety and belonging.”
Carolin also appreciates the assistance from her bike and weights, and how she’s been able to tailor her recovery to her own needs and at her own pace.
Aeralife staff always listening
Today, Carolin rings the bell for a co-resident in need. She not only wants to be a Aeralife advocate, but for those around her. She loves the management and care at Aeralife Northcote “because they’re always listening.”
Carolin identifies her journey as one of “ageing powerfully”. She believes that by overcoming the fears, prejudices and assumptions about aged care, she has derived more meaning and value in her life by giving back to aged care and acting as an advocate for Aeralife.
Carolin is keen to turn her talents to children’s books as an author-illustrator. She believes that part of ageing powerfully and with purpose is staying in touch with the imagination, having adventures, and taking small risks.
A person-centred approach to respite care
Falls and recurring bruises are one of the warning signs to consider in transitioning into aged care. A respite or short-term stay can provide clarity and ease decision-making. It helps you avoid pressure of choosing an aged care home under pressure (like a hospital visit, during an illness, or before a lease is up).
At Aeralife, we address residents’ care needs with a person-centred approach. We use staff skills, technology, activities, education, and empathetic dialogue.
We wish Carolin the best of luck with her aged care journey. Her positive attitude and transition through respite care into full-time care have been key factors in her strong recovery, passion for life, and ongoing wellbeing.
Learn more about respite careAbout Aeralife Northcote
Northcote residents enjoy stunning natural light and enchanting outdoor spaces in a striking modern home. The welcoming atmosphere promotes independence with facilities such as a library, landscaped gardens for reflection, and a private dining room for special family celebrations.
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