Housing solution giving elderly parent-carers certainty

On March 19 the doors we officially opened at our 10-unit complex at Glenalva Tce, Enoggera with Member for Ferny Grove, Hon. Mark Furner.

The development is part of the Queensland Government’s Elderly Parent Carer Innovation Initiative, a program developed to address the shortfall in appropriate accommodation for people living with a disability who reside with elderly parents.

BHC Creating Liveable Communities CEO Stuart Lummis said it was inevitable that parent-carers would reach an age where alternative, independent living solutions were needed for their adult children.

“This development has provided huge relief for these families,” Mr Lummis said.

“The complex contains purpose-built accommodation and necessary support services for adults living with a disability, all in proximity to tenants’ parents,” Mr Lummis said.

“Moving into independent living for the first time can be challenging and, by incorporating elements such as a common room and barbeque area, the Enoggera development provides residents with opportunities to interact and form important social and support networks.”

Rosemary Jackson – whose son Joe was one of the development’s first tenants – said living independently had turned his life around.

“I was very worried about Joe for a long time,” Mrs Jackson said.

“As he grew older and the reality of missing out on the life he wanted hit home, he withdrew and was diagnosed with depression.

“Now his self-esteem has improved greatly and he’s looking after himself like never before. I sleep better at night because I know he is safe here.”

Located adjacent to the Enoggera bus and rail interchange, the affordable housing complex features lift service and secure swipe card access, as well as enhanced entry and access points in accordance with Australian Gold Standard Livable Housing Design Guidelines.