Experts who know what’s what and what’s best

Whether

Therapy

Rebecca offers ‘unquestioning’ support for chronic pain

ARTHRITIS ACT can support people no matter what type of chronic pain condition they have, says CEO, Rebecca Davey.

“We have been growing slowly over the last six or seven years with a diverse range of services for pain management,” she says.

“We offer everything from educational talks to intensive care programs.

“People come to us because we know the condition. About 50 per cent of our staff live with chronic pain, so we understand how chronic pain can affect all parts of a person’s life.

“I am a registered nurse and midwife so health has been my life for quite some time.”

Rebecca says she worked in the hospital environment for 20 years before Arthritis ACT.

“I had reached a point in my life where I couldn’t stand on my feet for eight to 12 hours because of my chronic pain,” she says.

“So, getting involved in the arthritis community was the perfect fit for me.”

As an expert in the industry, Rebecca advises others to “always believe your clients, unquestioningly.”

“People can get really good at masking pain and putting on a brave face,” she says.

“In university, we are taught that eight out of

Arthritis ACT, Pain Support & ME/CFS ACT, 170 Haydon Drive, Bruce. Call 1800 011041 or visit arthritisact.org.au

Care

Centre that supports client and the carer

BURRANGIRI Aged Care

Respite Centre in Rivett is an ACT Health site operated by The Salvation Army, says centre manager Diah Octaviana.

“The centre supports ageing Canberrans and their carer, through overnight planned, emergency respite care and post-hospitalisation support,” she says.

“In addition, a day centre program operates Monday to Friday, where clients can attend for as many days as they require.

“The role of Burrangiri is to help the aged living in the community and for their carer who might need a break from that role. Burrangiri essentially serves as a fully equipped home-away-from-home, with registered nurses and carers onsite.”

Diah, who has been with the Salvation Army since 2013, says Burrangiri’s respite offers a sense of routine, consistency and community.

“On the weekend, clients are more than welcome to sit in the sunroom, do a puzzle or enjoy our lovely outdoor setting.

The sunroom is equipped with reading materials, or they can have a chat with other people,” she says.

“The respite centre can also provide clients and their carers with a nonintimidating taste of residential care.

Diah says those caring for an ageing loved one will benefit from Burrungiri, which provides a safe, supportive environment for their loved one, while at the same time providing an opportunity for the carer to have a well-deserved break. Burrangiri Aged Care Respite Centre, 1/7 Rivett Place, Rivett. Call 6288 1488 or visit agedcare.salvos.org.au