Learning to be happy again - Lorraine's journey through grief
Losing a loved one can be immensely challenging. Find out what has helped Lorraine through her grief.
Five years ago, Lorraine lost her husband Geoff. They had been happily married for 53 years and in her grief, she wondered if she would ever be happy again. Through integratedliving’s Wellness for Independence programs, Lorraine started to feel better.
“These programs are not just about learning – you also get to mix with people your age,” Lorraine said.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed all of them. It has been the best thing I have done.”
Every week, Lorraine joins a group of friends she has met through the programs for a walk through her local Botanic Gardens in Victoria.
They stop at the coffee shop and catch up and support one another. She says it has made her feel so much happier.
“We oldies like to think we know everything, but the courses keep you up to date with new ways of looking after your health,” Lorraine said. “I go to the class on a Monday morning. It’s a great way to start the week, and our teacher is so understanding and patient.”
Lorraine has overcome health issues, including heart problems and surgery for two new shoulders and two new hips. She is determined to make the most of life and has learned that it doesn’t matter how slow you are. “You must keep moving,” she said. Her latest healthy outlet has been learning how to play lawn bowls.
Karen, a nurse with integratedliving, has been running the Wellness for Independence programs for several years. She said sometimes participants believe they know almost all there is about “being healthy” then soon realise they can make some small changes that will create a big difference in their health.
“Many start anxious about using the iPad and soon become IT experts doing more than they could have imagined,” Karen said. “There are just so many benefits," Karen said.
“The social part of the group learning is also significant as clients share their experiences and ideas and connect.
"For participants who can’t leave their homes, our virtual groups are especially great and allow them to take part fully,” Karen said.
Wellness for Independence programs are about preventing and managing health conditions at home to reduce the need for medical intervention. Participants regularly find that their learnings improve their general quality of life and help them remain independent.