June 2004

Early to rise no longer applies in north-east

Older people with disabilities who take part in Central Access Limited day programs in Hume Region are starting their days at a more leisurely pace.

They do not have to start day programs now until 1 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday.

The programs now finish at 7 p.m. and are more age-appropriate and relaxing.

The new timetable follows a program review that found some older clients had difficulty getting up early every day.

For some of the older people, the early rises were necessitated by program starting times but some had to get up even earlier just to catch a bus to Central Access campuses.

The new times and programs are the result of a review earlier this year and consultation between Central Access and the Department of Human Services Hume Region staff.

‘Demand for these changes was identified through our program review process,’ said Central Access Chief Executive Officer Anthony Putt.

‘With the cooperation of Anne Marron from the Department of Human

Services in Wangaratta, we have been able to coordinate a program that better meets the needs of older people using our service.’

Central Access delivers day programs to people with disabilities through campuses in Benalla, Wangaratta and Mansfield as well as accommodation support and supported employment.

Program activities include exercise routines, recreation, grooming, relaxation therapy and old-time movie sessions.

Mr Putt said the programs and timetables would be reviewed again soon.

‘As a service provider we must respond to the individual needs of people seeking services from Central Access.

‘We will use the information gathered from this trial to determine what other opportunities might exist for services outside of the usual ‘business hours’ time-frame.’

• For more information contact Operations Manager Bev Joyce in Benalla on 5762 7880 or Program Manager Liz Zeinstra in Wangaratta on 5721 4840.