Services:

• Older People
• Youth, Children and Families
• Physical Disabilities and Neurological Support
• Palliative and Terminal Care

Homeshare is an established shared living programme which has been running successfully in the United States, across Europe and in Australia for over two decades. An single older person provides a younger person with accommodation with their own room In return for the accommodation the younger person (homesharer) helps with household tasks for up to 8 hours a week. An Enliven Homeshare Coordinator carefully matches both the older person and the younger person, After interviewing both parties and checking the younger person’s references, both parties are introduced to each other. It is a safe service - all care and attention is taken to ensure a good ‘match.’

Enliven Positive Ageing is launching Enliven Homeshare in Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne on the April 10th.

‘Meeling is an international student and her parents were familiar with homeshare. They wanted Meeling to live with an older adult in a home like setting. Irene is 70 and had visited China many times when younger, and was delighted to be introduced to Meeling as a homesharer. The two have homeshared for two years and Meeling has introduced Irene to computers and emails. Through email Irene has established a friendship with Meeling’s parents and loves receiving and sending emails’.

“Currently there are limited options which allow people (as they become older) to remain in their own homes” says Faith Turner Manager of Enliven non clinical services. . “They may have begun to feel unsafe overnight or their families may have expressed feeling concerned that they are vulnerable or lonely. An Enliven Homeshare Coordinator will arrange to meet with people in their homes and establish how best we can match them with a security checked Homesharer. “

“We can discuss with older people ways in which a Homesharer could enable you to remain in your home by sharing it. In exchange for accommodation the Homesharer will make a small contribution to the cost their room, and share the costs of telephone, power and food and will provide support with daily tasks that you are no longer able to complete.” adds Faith Turner

“The Enliven Homeshare Coordinator is available to discuss this exciting but simple way of remaining in your own home by home sharing. “

“Enliven Positive Ageing Services are based on restoring the physical, mental and social well-being of older people and their family through listening to what older people want, providing rehabilitation, opportunities for friendship, health and supportive communities. Homeshare compliments Enlivens current work by addressing the issues of social isolation, loneliness and most particularly anxiety at night for older people living alone.”

If you feel that this is something you or a family member could benefit from contact Faith Turner at Presbyterian Support 877 8193 or email enliven@homeshare.co.nz

Visit www.enlivenhomeshare.co.nz for more information.