No English? No worries! Home Support in the Northern Suburbs
Language no barrier
Mrs Mara Lalic of Salisbury East may not speak English, but that doesn’t stop her from accessing support services to assist her to remain living independently at home – and it’s all thanks to Resthaven Northern Community Services Home Support Worker, Zora Peric.
Zora says, ‘Mara and I met through the Macedonian community in Adelaide.’
‘Mara’s health was declining, but she was hesitant to use any support services, as she was concerned about coming from a non-English speaking background.’
‘Mara immigrated to Australia in 1969 from Serbia, growing up in the village of Tavija, in the municipality of Bosanska Kostajnica.’
‘I was able to reassure Mara, in her own language, to reach out to Resthaven for support. And I’m so glad she did.’
That was two years ago, and now Zora spends quality time with Mrs Lalic each week, assisting with meal preparation, shopping trips, and attending appointments. Zora loves listening to Mrs Lalic’s stories.
Zora, who has worked with Resthaven for nearly three years, speaks several languages, including Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian and Macedonian. For non-English speaking clients such as Mrs Lalic, this can make the world of difference.
Through Zora, Mrs Lalic says, ‘Having someone who speaks the same language is such a big help.’
‘I was always alone, and felt trapped in my own home. Now I am very happy.’
Mrs Lalic recommends that anyone thinking of utilising Resthaven’s services should ‘definitely call them.’
Zora echoes this sentiment, saying, ‘If any older person is thinking of accessing Resthaven’s services, please go ahead and call us, we are here to help.’
In addition to support at home, Resthaven Northern Community Services, at 16 Gillingham Road, Elizabeth, also offers wellbeing programs, Home Care Packages, in-home nursing, therapy services and self-management groups.
Find out more about Resthaven Northern Community Services
Resthaven’s residential and in-home care and support options are offered throughout metropolitan Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, Murraylands, Riverland, Barossa, Fleurieu Peninsula and the Limestone Coast.
Established in 1935, Resthaven Incorporated is a not for profit, South Australian aged care community service associated with the Uniting Church.