What do Clients Value in In-Home Care?
For Sharon, living with rheumatoid arthritis means relying on support workers to maintain her independence. But as she shared on the Conversations with G & G podcast, the value of in-home aged care goes far beyond tasks like shopping or cleaning.
What does she find most meaningful?
Connection: Carers who share a laugh, enjoy a coffee, and bring a sense of friendship.
Reliability: Workers who arrive on time, prepared, and respectful of her personal space.
Compassion: Caregivers who treat her as more than “just a job” but as a person with dignity.
These preferences echo broader research in aged care. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) highlights that older Australians consistently rate interpersonal connection as just as important as the practical delivery of services. Similarly, Carer Gateway provides resources that emphasise the role of emotional connection and trust in positive care experiences.
Sharon’s story reminds us that good care is about relationships as much as services. For providers and family carers alike, it’s the little things — kindness, listening, respect — that help older people feel truly supported.
To read more head to:
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare - to learn more about older australians.
Carer Gateway - to learn more about emotional connection in care