Recently, the care finder team met Mr Smith*, whose health situation changed drastically beyond their control. Read how this committed team helped Mr Smith* by listening and building a bridge of supports to reconnect him back into his community again.
Mr. Smith* was referred to Advocare at a time when he and his wife were facing a particularly difficult chapter in their lives. Recently diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Mr. Smith was prescribed oxygen therapy around the clock. The shift in his health status brought with it not only physical limitations but also a heavy emotional toll. Once an active and independent man who thrived on being outdoors, Mr. Smith found himself increasingly confined to his home, not by choice, but by the practical limitations of the oxygen supply he needed constantly. (*Identity has been changed to protect privacy).
His only option for portable oxygen at the time involved carrying multiple heavy oxygen cylinders, each lasting only 30 to 45 minutes. The constant need to monitor oxygen levels and calculate how much time he had before needing to return home was overwhelming and exhausting. This burden was felt not only by Mr. Smith but also by his wife, who shared the stress and anxiety of every outing. Eventually, leaving the house became too difficult, and the couple began to withdraw from social interactions. Invitations from friends and family dwindled, and their isolation grew.
When Mr. Smith was connected with a member of Advocare’s care finder team things began to change.
The care finder team member took the time to listen to their concerns, understand their goals, and offer practical support tailored to their needs.
The initial focus was on linking Mr. Smith to his Home Care Package and coordinating services to ease the burden at home, such as domestic assistance, transport, and meal support.
However, a key goal remained in helping Mr. Smith re-engage with his community and, most importantly, his family.
Helping the freedom-building process
The care finder explored options to improve Mr. Smith’s mobility and quality of life. One solution stood out. A Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) that could provide up to four hours of continuous oxygen, allowing him to leave the home without fear or stress. The main obstacle was the cost of purchasing the unit outright at $4,000, well over the couple’s budget.
Determined to find a way forward, the care finder team contacted multiple suppliers and service providers. After extensive coordination, a rental option was secured, and arrangements were made through Mr. Smith’s Home Care Package to cover the costs. The positive impacts of this single intervention have been life changing.
With access to the Portable Oxygen Concentrator, he has regained the freedom to attend significant life events like his daughter’s wedding, family Christmas celebrations, his grandchildren’s school plays, and even simple outings like dinner with loved ones. These moments, once thought to be lost, are now accessible again, offering joy, dignity, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Thanks to the advocacy, collaboration, and personalised support provided through Advocare’s care finder program, Mr. Smith is no longer isolated. He is once again part of his community, enjoying life on his terms.
