About Us
Ageing with Choices was born from my experience working in a Retirement Village, where I noticed a growing need for additional services that would help residents live independently in their own homes. The My Aged Care system, designed to assist, can often be overwhelming and confusing, particularly for older individuals who may not be comfortable with technology.
Many residents faced challenges because their families, busy with work and daily responsibilities couldn’t be there to support them through the assessment process.
I began offering my assistance to these residents, helping them navigate the system, and they found it incredibly helpful. They were able to make informed choices about the services they needed to maintain their independence.
It became clear to me that many more older individuals in the broader community could benefit from this type of support. This realisation inspired me to create Ageing with Choices - to offer guidance and support to those who need it the most.
Before launching Ageing with Choices I personally faced the challenge of moving my father into a Residential Aged Care Facility due to his rapid onset of Dementia. Although the process was incredibly taxing, I knew exactly what I had to be done and took action. This experience inspired me to incorporate Aged Care Placement into Ageing with Choices, as this can be an emotionally charged process for many families - one that no one wants to face. The decision to place a loved one in full time care is often accompanied by sadness and guilt. Having gone through this myself, I deeply understand the emotional weight of this decision and am committed to helping families navigate these feelings. My goal is to make this difficult time a little easier for you and your loved ones.
I’ve always had a passion for connecting with older individuals, which lead to the creation of the wellness aspect of Ageing with Choices. I believe it’s essential for older people to have opportunities for meaningful conversation. Whether it’s discussing changes they wish to make to their lives, navigating retirement, or simply having someone to talk to, I am a firm believer that everyone, regardless of age, deserves to have their voice heard and their choices respected.
End of life is an inevitable part of our journey, yet it is often met with hesitation and fear. Personally I’m at peace with this phase and feel privileged to help others navigate it. I offer support in discussing end of life wishes, resolving unfinished business, reflecting on meaningful memories, and achieving closure. This phase can be especially challenging for loved ones, who ofter avoid the conversation, sometimes until it’s too late. May aim is to help individuals and families approach this time with peace, dignity and contentment.
I aim to ease the emotional burdens that families face during this challenging time, without overstepping or interfering with the roles of others. I'm here to offer support where it's needed the most.
- Cate Williams