Time to rest, space to decide:
Respite program offers a place to breathe, plan and choose
Stephanie Buckland, Chief Executive Officer, Amana Living
Earlier this year, Amana Living, in close partnership with the WA Department of Health, introduced a new initiative called ‘Time to Think’, a program that is offering older Western Australians a vital pause between hospital and home or residential care.
For many older people leaving hospital, the path ahead can appear uncertain. This is where ‘Time to Think’ comes in, providing a short stay, usually around one month, in a home-like environment. Here, clients can regain strength and confidence, reflect on their needs, and make decisions about their future, whether that’s moving into permanent aged care or making arrangements for care in their home.
The program operates from Amana Living’s Mosman Park and Kinross homes, where caring staff help each client and their family navigate the practical and emotional steps of their long-term care and accommodation needs. The goal is simple: to give people the time, space and support they need to discern the next stage of their journey.
Our Respite Co-ordinator, Angela Terrell, has seen the difference this approach makes. ‘So far the experience has been very positive for clients,’ she said. ‘They value the chance to pause, breathe and make decisions at their own pace.’
As the very first program of its kind in Australia, ‘Time to Think’ also fosters closer collaboration between hospitals, social workers, and aged care providers. This contributes to better outcomes for older people, while also releasing hospital beds to other patients who need them.
Lee Ann Reyes, Service Manager at Kinross Beach House (pictured right), remembers some of her first ’Time to Think’ clients. ‘One gentleman described the experience as helping him ‘find himself again’, appreciating the privacy, comfort and dignity of having his own space after months in a shared hospital room.’
‘Another client praised the program for offering a glimpse into residential care without the pressure of permanence.’
Social activities, companionship and a welcoming environment help to boost our clients’ wellbeing and self-esteem. It’s a reminder that sometimes what we need most is not to hurry to make a decision, but to pause, reflect and ready ourselves for what comes next.
The ‘Time to Think’ program is proving that a little time in the right place can make a big difference.
