CARE ADVISORY SERVICE

This service is available to all people, their carers and families living with MND in WA. The Care Advisor is contactable by phone and can visit people in their homes by appointment.

This service consists of:

• provision of information on MND
• assessment of needs of MND patient and family
• timely accessing of appropriate services which could include Home Nursing, Respite, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Pathology, Social Work
• advocacy on behalf of patients and families to meet their needs

Hours

Three Care Advisers work 51 hours combined per week Monday to Friday and can be reached through the office telephone. Although our advertised hours are 9am to 3pm, office staff are often able to assist you at other times. Should the office be unattended please leave a message on our answering machine and your query will be responded to promptly.

INFORMATION

This is available to patients, families and health care professionals.

• Current literature on MND, research and care issues can be accessed.

• A monthly newsletter is published with relevant up to date information.

• Videos available on request.

• Internet access available at the Association's office.

• Support group meetings.

EDUCATION

The Association conducts seminars and talks for lay and professional people. The Care Advisor is also available as a resource to staff in hostels and nursing homes where a patient with MND may be living.

EQUIPMENT

The Association has a bank of equipment available for loan to MND patients. This is acquired through funds raised by the Association and  from submissions to various service organisations, corporate and charitable foundations and the Lotteries Commission.

SUPPORT VOLUNTEER SERVICE

People living with MND (PLWMND) often feel isolated as it becomes more difficult for them to leave the home. The Support Volunteer Service has been developed to give emotional and physical support at such times. Trained volunteers personally visit to offer companionship and help with small tasks such as writing letters, reading etc. Carers who find themselves unable to keep up with friends and feel socially isolated are also encouraged to use the service. Where a personal visit is impractical a Support Volunteer can telephone the family with MND. This service is provided under the guidance of the Care Adviser and the Support Volunteer Coordinator.