Growing support: Helen’s garden and community flourish together
A vibrant garden nurtured by Helen and her caring support team
Helen is 90 years young, and if there’s one thing she is known for in her local community, it’s her garden.
For decades, her home has been surrounded by colour. From blooming flowers and carefully tended plants to neatly trimmed lawns that reflect her pride and dedication.
Her regional NSW neighbours often slow down as they pass, admiring the care Helen pours into every tended corner. Helen’s garden isn’t just a hobby, it is a part of who she is.
“I can remember nearly everywhere I’ve lived. I’ve always tried to make each place nice,” Helen said modestly.
Support that helps Helen's garden grow
It’s become harder for Helen to maintain her stunning garden since losing her husband, Jack, nearly six years ago. With help from integratedliving Care Partner Sherrie, Helen accesses Home and Garden Maintenance (HGM) services.
In garden specialists Jake and Dan, Helen has not just found assistance with heavier tasks, she’s become part of an inspiring team offering mutual support and respect.
“Anybody would love them,” Helen said. “They are wonderful. I really mean that. I look forward to seeing them, and they’re keeping an eye on me, too.”
Jake and Dan noticed Helen’s expertise in the garden and with propagating plants, and started regularly bringing her potting mix and empty pots to support her passion. Helen is delighted she gets to share her propagated plants with more people.
“I love to give them away,” the great grandmother said.
A caring network beyond the garden
Helen is equally enthusiastic about the rest of her integratedliving support network, including Sherrie, support workers such as Bree who provide weekly domestic assistance, and a monthly nursing service.
At her regular View Club outings in support of the Smith Family, Helen said they discuss aged-care assistance.
“I’m 90, and most of them are in their 70s or 80s. When we compare our support, I think ‘I’ve got better than that’, 100 times better,” Helen said.
“There is no comparison to integratedliving. I’ve been with them for a long, long time because my husband was with them, too.” It’s wonderful Helen can experience the same quality of care she so tenderly brings to her garden.
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Helen’s story is just one of many showing how gardening can spark connection, confidence and joy at any age.
If you’d like to read more client stories that celebrate gardening, growth and community, explore our Green thumb gardeners article or discover practical, client‑shared ideas to help your own garden thrive in our Gardening tips for seniors resource.