Supported Independent Living: From Aged Care to a New Beginning
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
We are thrilled to share a very special story of two of our newest clients, Tom* and Arthur*, who recently traded the structured walls of aged care for the warmth and freedom of their own home in Western Australia.
For over a decade, Tom (59) and Arthur (55) lived in aged care facilities because there simply wasn’t another option. While these facilities provided care, they are designed for older people, leaving two younger men living within a very structured aged care routine that wasn’t their own and did not suit their stage of life.
That all changed on 17 November 2025, when they chose At Home Care as their Supported Independent Living provider, delivering in-home care and nursing, and officially moved into their new Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) home.
His “forever home” hasn’t just given him a roof over his head—it has given him his life back.
A Transformation for Tom
In the aged care facility, Tom preferred to be on his own, spending most of the day alone in his bedroom watching TV. Since moving into his new home, he has completely found his voice. Tom spends most of his time outside his room in the heart of the home, chatting with the team and his housemate and getting involved in daily activities and tasks. His “forever home” hasn’t just given him a roof over his head—it has given him his life back.
A Social Butterfly Spreads His Wings
Arthur, known for his big personality and love of a laugh, is also thriving. He can now access the community as frequently as he likes, doing the things he loves and getting out to see his family more than ever. He is very involved in the home, loving the opportunity to cook, join in all the activities, and have a good yarn. We are currently working closely with him to navigate some big milestones, like securing his first-ever bank account and identification — essential steps toward his independence goals.
The Power of Partnership
This transition was a huge team effort. The At Home Care team worked hand in hand with support coordinators, the SDA provider, and Tom and Arthur’s therapy teams to make the move seamless. Before the big day, we held “buddy shifts” within the aged care facilities so Tom and Arthur could get to know their team in a familiar environment. Tom and Arthur also visited their new house several times before the move, picking their own rooms and ensuring it felt like home the moment they walked through the door.
For their families, the move has provided the ultimate gift: peace of mind. They know Tom and Arthur are in a safe, supportive environment, where they have the care they need, and most importantly – the freedom to live their lives how they choose.
*Names have been changed to protect client privacy.
Key Takeaways
- Tom and Arthur transitioned from aged care to their own home in Western Australia, gaining independence and comfort.
- Tom has transformed from being isolated to actively engaging in daily activities with housemates and staff.
- Arthur enjoys greater community access, participates in home activities, and works towards achieving independence goals.
- The move involved coordinated efforts from the At Home Care team, support coordinators, and therapy teams to ensure a smooth transition.
- Their families now experience peace of mind knowing Tom and Arthur are in a supportive environment that offers freedom and care.
