$10k grant gets Edenhope mobile
17 October 2023
The community of Edenhope is set to benefit from the launch of a new program that offers easy access to high-quality aids and assistive equipment.
Thanks to efforts of Ashleigh Maybery, the only Occupational Therapist in Edenhope, and Jo Grant, the Primary Health Coordinator at the Health and Wellbeing Hub, eligible community members can now access a ‘Loan to Buy’ aids and equipment program.
By working collaboratively with other local health professionals and securing a grant from the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, Ashleigh has successfully improved services in the area to meet the needs of the community more effectively.
This program was developed for locals to have easy and efficient access to high-quality aids and assistive equipment that is commonly needed, with no need to travel extensive distances. Consumers will work with the occupational therapist and allied health assistants to trial equipment. If they are happy with the equipment, they can access Goods, Equipment and Assistive Technology (GEAT) funding to purchase it.
GEAT funding is for people over 65 years, in receipt of Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) funding, who require equipment or aids to assist them to live safely and independently.
Examples of equipment and aids include:
- Showering and toileting aids such as shower chairs and raised toilet seats
- Kitchen aids such as jar openers and modified cutlery
- Home safety equipment such as personal alarms
- Walking aids such as 4-wheel walkers and walking sticks
- Dressing aids such as dressing sticks, button/zip hooks and sock donners
Community members can contact the Edenhope Health and Wellbeing Hub to arrange for the Occupational Therapy team to discuss this equipment. People not eligible to receive GEAT funding are still encouraged to contact the Edenhope Health and Wellbeing Hub to arrange a meeting with the Occupational Therapist or an Allied Health Assistant to discuss the alternative funding options to access required equipment.
For assistance to get CHSP funding, accessing this service or to learn more about the Aids and Equipment loan program, please contact the HUB on 5585 9830 or call in to see us at 65 Elizabeth St.