Your Monthly Dose of Care (July 2024)

Proud to continue serving East Palm Beach: A testimony to our team

We’re happy to announce that tenants at East Palm Beach apartments have unanimously nominated us to continue providing our 24-hour on-site care services for another year.

Accessible Homes Australia’s (AHA) residents have the opportunity to choose their Onsite Shared Support provider annually, allowing them to either renew contracts or explore new partnerships. This marks the second consecutive year we’ve been honoured with this nomination, reflecting the commitment from our incredible team to delivering exceptional care and support.

Considering What?

Get ready, the Paralympics are not far off now! As we gear up for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, we thought we’d take this opportunity to celebrate just how for the messaging to promote this event has come in recent years.

From the impactful “Meet the Superhumans” in 2012 to the inclusive “We’re the Superhumans” in 2016, and the more personal “Super. Human” in 2020/21, to the latest “Considering What?” campaign, society’s focus has shifted to the athletes’ physical prowess and universal challenges.

This evolution normalises disability and promotes inclusivity by showcasing the exceptional abilities and achievements of Paralympians without qualifiers.

It’s a great new campaign. You can check it out on YouTube by clicking below.

Join the BioSpine 2.0 Efficacy Study

BioSpine is seeking participants for their groundbreaking BioSpine 2.0 efficacy study.

We’ve talked about this project in the recent months, but to recap: This innovative project utilises thought-controlled virtual reality technology, allowing paralysed individuals to experience walking again. By integrating cutting-edge research from Duke University on thought-controlled rehabilitation, the pioneering work of Courtine and Edgerton on electrical stimulation and drug therapy, and BioSpine’s own advancements in digital twins, MRI measurements, and 3D printing for thought-controlled headsets, BioSpine is at the forefront of spinal cord injury therapy.

For more information about the project, visit the link below.

Planning for adult spinal cord injury services in Queensland

Earlier this year, Vitori participated in a focus group for the Queensland Department of Health to assist in the development of a comprehensive ten-year plan to enhance healthcare for adults with spinal cord injuries.

From acute inpatient services for initial injury management, to inpatient rehabilitation and outpatient and community-based services here’s an update on key projects from Queensland Health:

• Queensland Spinal Cord Injuries Service (QSCIS) Enhancement Project

“Infrastructure improvements include additional bathroom facilities within the Unit, renovations to existing outpatient and therapy spaces to improve access, comfort and quality of rehabilitation. 

Staffing has been increased to ensure care is timely, responsive to busy times of day and suited to the diversity of modern rehabilitation therapy.”

• Business case for a Statewide Spinal Cord Injury Service on Princess Alexandra Hospital campus

“This involves longer-term planning on the design of a new spinal cord injuries unit that will replace the facilities in which the current Spinal Injuries Unit operates at the Princess Alexandra Hospital.”

• Statewide service delivery model for spinal cord injury care

“The model will incorporate acute care for spinal cord injuries through to lifelong management. In co-designing the new model, we are exploring how networked service arrangements can be used to deliver increased specialist rehabilitation and lifelong care closer to home and the role of QSCIS as a statewide service now and into the future.”

Carers, don’t forget about your own mental health

As carers, we often dedicate so much time and energy to looking after others that we can forget to take care of ourselves. We wanted to share a friendly reminder that it’s essential to prioritise your own mental health too.

Stay connected to activities you love and maintain your social network. Remember to take breaks, manage stress effectively, and seek help when needed. There’s no guilt in taking care of yourself too – it’s crucial for yourself and those we care for.

Around the CareMatch grounds

Carer of the month for July goes to Conor Mceldowney. Known for being a true ‘yes man,’ Conor has shown incredible dedication by applying himself to training and on-site upskilling. His willingness to step in and cover for numerous clients has been invaluable. Thank you for your hard work and commitment Conor.

Whether you’re a team member, participant, or part of our wider network, thank you for being a part of our CareMatch community. Stay connected with us for more updates, stories, and highlights of the incredible individuals who make CareMatch so special.