OT Merenia comes ‘home’ to Resthaven
After a change in her circumstances, Merenia Vince found herself in the position of wanting to get back into her trained profession as an Occupational Therapist (OT). But, after being out of the industry for around eight years, it wasn’t as simple as just applying for a new role.
‘Even as someone who had been an OT for more than three decades and worked all around the world, the process of returning to practice meant I needed to work under supervision for 180 hours,’ Merenia says.
Resthaven Onkaparinga Community Services was approached, and with the supervision of Resthaven Onkaparinga’s OT Cara Mudie, Merenia is again fully registered and qualified to work as an OT.
‘I am very pleased and grateful for the patience, support and time invested in me by Cara,’ Merenia says. ‘Working in health again feels a bit like coming home.’
This is the first time Merenia has worked as an OT in community services and says that she has been well supported by her managers and the whole team at Resthaven.
‘Everyone has been encouraging, enthusiastic and welcoming,’ Merenia says. ‘Our aim is to help clients be safe and independent in their own homes for as long as possible. We promote active ageing. We want clients to be fully engaged in their lives.’
Merenia offers clients recommendations on housing modifications, as well as prescribing equipment and aids.
‘One of the things I hear most often is “I hadn’t thought of that”,’ Merenia says. ‘There are always adjustments that can be made and adaptations to support ageing. OTs are problem solvers who can help older people overcome barriers. We can help people to re-engage with what is meaningful in their lives.’
The team at Resthaven Onkaparinga Community Services is pleased to have Merenia on board.
‘When we interviewed her, we immediately thought she would make a lovely addition to the team,’ Lee Bennetts, Resthaven Onkaparinga Community Services Manager, says.
‘She was able to easily demonstrate sound OT knowledge and skills, and we are very happy to have supported Merenia to achieve her goal. Credit also goes to Cara who has embodied the spirit of Resthaven in her unwavering support of Merenia.’
Across South Australia, employs a range of allied health workers to support older people both living independently in their own homes, as well as in residential aged care homes. From in-clinic services to in-home options, we welcome the opportunity to discuss individual needs.