Following the call by Community Legal Centres Queensland for new laws to protect older residents against elder abuse, local carers Angel Potts and Linda Marsden are on a mission to change the state of aged care.
Angel and Linda, both Community Business Partners at Envigor Home Care, have vowed to do things differently, and are determined to allow their clients to live with independence and dignity.
Angel started her career as a care worker with the intention of making a change.
Angel recognised extreme mistreatment, exploitation and a lack of compassion within the aged care community.
“Age is not a disability, and it’s high time we stopped treating it like one,” Angel said.
The 37-year-old wife and mother of three gains satisfaction from helping and advocating for people who sometimes go unseen or unheard.
“There’s no big secret to providing great care, you simply treat a person with the dignity they deserve,” said Angel.
“Our core values are integrity, caring, family and team – and that says it all.”
Angel’s average day consists of visiting clients and ensuring they are receiving the very best of care and are happy and content with their carers, as well as visiting potential new clients in the Ipswich community.
On the other hand, Linda spends her days listening to clients, then planning what is needed to assist them to remain independent.
“I love the look on people’s faces when they realise they can remain in control and get what they need when they need it,” said Linda.
“We listen, we deliver, we respect each individual, we get to know the person.
“Being a smaller, locally-owned service provider means our team can fit in with our clients’ lives and schedules – not the other way around.”
Earlier this year, Linda assisted WWII survivor, Doreen Rice, with her transition to Envigor after being left unsatisfied with her previous provider.
At 82 years of age, Doreen hasn’t had an easy ride in life having suffered through the atrocities of WWII, and losing her husband and soulmate in 2013.
“Life has been difficult without Norman by my side,” said Doreen.
The Ipswich resident expressed her happiness with the level of personalised care she receives, and now feels her needs are finally being listened to, and met.
“Linda is so helpful, and such a cheerful lady, she’s so obliging and always has a smile on her face,” said Doreen.
“This experience has been a blessing.”
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