Supported independent living: Jenny's life-changing move

Supported independent living (SIL) can have a profoundly positive impact on the lives of people with disability. Residents, like Jenny, are proof of that.

Jenny is right where she wants to be.

Born and bred in Queensland’s beautiful Whitsunday region, she loves residing at Endeavour Foundation’s Supported Independent Living units in Cannonvale, near Airlie Beach.

For Jenny, the ability to govern herself, create and hold her own routines and be independent has been life changing.

She works hard to keep her space clean, showing a dedication to vacuuming and mopping, cleaning the dishes and cooking for herself.

Jenny has been a SIL resident for more than two years, and she has not once looked back.

“I make my bed every day, do the washing up, cook, and clean the floors,” Jenny said.

Aligning with Jenny’s goal of staying fit and healthy, she recently joined a gym.

“I bike a lot, and go for walks,” Jenny said.

“And I have a diet. My favourite meal is salads, but it is all about portion control!”

Gaining independence

Endeavour Foundation’s Home and Community Site Manager, Jody Flaherty, expressed admiration at Jenny’s proactive nature.

“Jenny has worked extremely hard to be independent,” she said.

For Jenny, it is all about keeping busy.

Monday to Wednesday, she joins the groups at Endeavour Foundation’s Cannonvale Learning and Lifestyle hub.

On Thursdays and Fridays, she works at the Reef Gateway Hotel.

In fact, Jenny has been employed at the hotel for 13 years, doing everything from housekeeping and barkeeping to reception work.

“She even has her RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) certificate for the hotel,” Jody said.

Leading an independent and well-rounded lifestyle is something Jenny had wanted to achieve. Her SIL home choices and the support from Endeavour Foundation have enabled her to live this reality.

There are three SIL units available at the Cannonvale location, each hosting two individuals with shared common areas and independent and private quarters, meaning residents enjoy a safe and secure environment.

With around-the-clock support in the form of 24/7 staffing hours, the freedom to design how the space looks and easy access to activities, SIL allows for empowered and positive living.

Always organised

Jenny and her housemate often watch TV together and catch up on the news.

And what is Jenny’s secret to living independently?

“Good time management,” she said.

Jody agreed with that assessment.

“Jenny is always on time, always organised, with her bag packed,” she said.

“She always makes sure she is ready to go, to take on the day.”

Supported Independent Living for you

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