If there’s one thing Sylvia and Des have truly mastered, it’s the art of ageing with panache and good humour. They have found the secret to keeping the years at bay, all while living independently in the comfort of their cherished home.
Sylvia and Des moved into their current home back in the late 90s. It’s been the backdrop for countless chapters of their life story, and they wouldn’t have it any other way.
Their roots run deep in their local community, and Sylvia fondly recalls a time when dirt roads and walking were the norm during her childhood. She reminisces, “When I was a kid, we had dirt roads and we walked… we never had a car and never had a bike, couldn’t afford a bus, so we just walked everywhere. And I just loved it.”
Their secret to happiness in their golden years? A lot of humour and a pinch of Kirinari magic. With their Home Care Packages, Sylvia and Des have the freedom to live life to the fullest while receiving essential support within their own home. These packages include housekeeping, gardening, lawn care, and even meal support from Light and Easy.
Sylvia’s praise for Kirinari is infectious, “I thank them and tell them I appreciate them every time they come because there is no harm in letting someone know how much they are appreciated,” she says with a smile. “I think they’re just wonderful – they come here, and I don’t have to worry about telling them what to do because they just do it.”
“I can’t wish for anything better,” she adds, with Des chiming in that the support is “amazing.”
But it’s not all about the home and comfort for this duo. Thanks to their local community transport services, they’re also off on adventures!
“Oh yes – we’re going on trips now!” Sylvia enthusiastically shares. They’ve been busy getting out and about with a small group of like-minded adventurers.
And let’s not forget Sylvia’s star turn as a radio personality, where she and her listeners share a good laugh during her “Sylvia Says” segments. “I love to laugh, and I think laughing… well, I laugh too much I think sometimes, but it’s good. And we just have a joke and a laugh,” Sylvia chuckles. Des, with a mischievous grin, adds, “I had to go through all my jokes that I collect on the computer and find the ones that she can put over the radio.”
“Des and Sylvia are an absolute joy to work with and for. It is so important to us to empower people to make their own choices as they age, and to ensure people can continue living a good life with all the things they find fulfilling,” said Kathy McIntosh, Kirinari Community Development Manager.
Interested in learning more about healthy ageing services that can support you to stay in your own home for longer?
A registered supporter is someone you choose – a person you trust, like a family member, carer, or close friend. They can help you to make decisions about your care, communicate with your service providers, and understand your options.
Here are three simple language strategies you can use in your daily routines at home or on the go to help boost your child’s understanding and expression skills.
In what’s set to be a blockbuster night of footy, Saturday 14 March will see Carrington Park light up for the Round 2 clash between the Penrith Panthers and the Cronulla Sharks, and this year, Kirinari Community Services is coming on board as an official sponsor.
Kirinari would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land and pay our respects to the Elders past, present and future for they hold the memories, the traditions, the culture and hopes of Aboriginal Australia.
Kirinari acknowledges and recognises people from different nationalities, cultures, and identities. We are committed to providing an inclusive environment where individuals feel safe, accepted, and affirmed.
Thank you for contacting us We have received your message and appreciate you taking the time to contact us. A member of our team will review your inquiry and will be in touch with you shortly.
Kayliah’s story: Finding routine, confidence and independence
For Kayliah, the first three months of WorkFoundations have brought something simple but important: a sense of routine, confidence and growing independence.
Understanding Community Transport: Your Guide to Getting Around
Learn what community transport is, who can use it, and how disability transport services help people stay independent and connected to essential services and social activities.
Kirinari Champions Inclusion at Penrith Panthers’ Bathurst Home Game
In what’s set to be a blockbuster night of footy, Saturday 14 March will see Carrington Park light up for the Round 2 clash between the Penrith Panthers and the Cronulla Sharks, and this year, Kirinari Community Services is coming on board as an official sponsor.
Kingston (Supported Independent Living)
This two-bedroom home offers a generously sized open-plan living and dining area, a well-proportioned kitchen, and a small second living space for added flexibility.
Thurgoona (Supported Independent Living)
This modern property has three bedrooms all with their own ensuite and an attached independent unit.
Lavington (Supported Independent Living)
This lovely four-bedroom brick home offers a spacious kitchen, dining, and family area that opens onto a covered alfresco space, perfect for entertaining or relaxing.
Template Review – Pink
Enjoy daily support with new tasks and skills so you can live more independently at home.
Template Review – Yellow
Enjoy daily support with new tasks and skills so you can live more independently at home.
