Joanne lives in a house along with 5 other people, all of whom are supported by NZCare.  She has lived in her community since 1998 when her family chose NZCare as the support provider when Tokonui Hospital closed.

Joanne’s family have watched the changes in her over the last eight years.  Over this time they have seen her become increasingly settled and happy in her home.  Joanne’s mum commented “Leaving Tokonui seemed such a huge disruption for Joanne, but now we realise it has been the best thing for her.  She’s living in a lovely home environment with a nice atmosphere.  Whenever we pop in she is always lovely and clean and happy and wearing nice clothes.
The staff, and especially Lorelei, are fantastic.  It is very reassuring and we couldn't wish for more for Joanne.”

Since she became more a part of her community, Joanne has been supported to communicate her preferences.  Lorelei Mason, Team Leader for NZCare explained “As time goes on we’ve begun to understand a lot more of what she’s requesting.  We know for example that she prefers a spa bath to a shower and we know that she loves going to her day programme because she hums the music all the way there.”

Supporting Joanne to communicate in this way has eliminated causes for frustration.  This in turn has helped her deal positively with new situations.  Lorelei and Joanne enjoy time together and go out for a coffee once a month.  “We used to get her orange juice or coke, but one day Joanne swapped our drinks over so she could try my Cappuccino.   Now we know to buy her a Cappuccino.  It’s really rewarding to see her indicating her preferences in that way.” said Lorelei.

Joanne now knows that it is safe for her to make choices, which has helped her to handle new situations positively.  With the support of staff at NZCare Joanne has been able to have more participation in her community.  In the past, Joanne has been anxious about going out.  Now she enjoys going to dinner, she has a haircut and a coffee once a month and will go on holiday with some of the people she lives with and support staff.

Lorelei and Joanne’s parents agree that she has come a long way.  “Joanne’s such a social, happy person who has just progressed so much.  We are looking forward to some new experiences together.” finished Lorelei.