Rayleen is living well in the home she loves
In Adelaide’s western suburbs, Rayleen Devenport lives in the home she and her husband built 60 years ago, where they raised their two children and became part of a close-knit neighbourhood.
For Rayleen, there is nowhere else she would like to live than the family home.
“I know the area and I know where I’m going, that’s why I love it here. I’m close to my children, my friends are nearby and I have wonderful neighbours. It means a lot to feel safe, supported and connected to the people around me,” she said.
Seeking the right personal care to live well
Now in her early-80s, Rayleen says that without Support at Home services with ACH Group, it would be difficult for her to remain living at home.
Funded through Rayleen’s Level 3 care, a few mornings each week, members of ACH Group’s team visit Rayleen to assist her to get ready for the day and live well at home.
The team provides personal care, occupational therapy to keep her safe around the home, personal training to maintain her strength, and domestic support tailored to what Rayleen needs that day, whether it’s cleaning, making the bed or hanging out and bringing in the washing.
For Rayleen, personal care includes support with washing her hair, a task she no longer feels confident doing on her own.
“The personal support is amazing. Having my hair washed, it makes me feel really fresh,” she said.
“I know that as I need more help with showering, I can ask ACH Group for more support.
“The ACH Group staff are amazing. Each week, I have the same Support Worker and Cleaner come to my home. Nothing is ever too much trouble, and as well as providing care, they’re wonderful company and always lovely to talk to.”
What living independently means to Rayleen
For Rayleen independence means spending time with her two children and five grandchildren, frequent holidays with her friends, gatherings with neighbours she has known for decades, and playing cards at the local RSL twice a week.
“Cards is held at the local RSL and our favourite game is ‘Pennies from Heaven’. I have made close friends at cards, and it just shows, you keep making friends throughout your life,” Rayleen said.
“My neighbours are so supportive. They take my bins in and out and help with small jobs around the home. We come together to socialise at Christmas, but we also share little gestures, like if someone buys or bakes muffins, they’ll bring some around for the neighbours to enjoy.
“My daughter and son, their partners and my grandchildren help me immensely too. We’re a very close family and really enjoy our time together. I love hearing about all my grandchildren’s achievements.”
“With support, I am ageing well.”
Supporting independence at home
Rayleen’s story shows how the right support can help you continue living independently in the home and community you love.
From 1 October 2026, approved personal care services delivered through the Support at Home program will be fully government funded, making this essential support more accessible for older Australians.
If you or someone you know would like support to remain independent at home, ACH Group offers a range of Support at Home services, from personal care and allied health to help with household tasks.
Ready to explore your support at home options?
Whether you’re reviewing your current provider or simply want to understand what’s possible under Support at Home, our Welcome Team is here to help.
We’ll listen to what’s important to you, discuss support options that suit your needs and goals, and answer any questions you may have.
No obligation, just helpful advice from our local South Australian team.
