Handing power and freedom back to elderly Aussies
You would be forgiven for thinking twice about setting up your loved ones in an aged care facility in the wake of the ongoing royal commission. A brighter option could be in your own backyard.
The interim report from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety labels the current system a “shocking tale of neglect.” It claims the system fails to meet the needs of elderly Australians, with revelations a quarter to half of aged care residents in this country are malnourished. It’s a confronting reality to weigh on people’s minds as they consider the next step for an ageing loved one.
Funky Little Shack is helping families take back control with a great alternative that brings families closer and offers more freedom – helping them to LIVE BIGGER.
Granny flats are being given a makeover by founder Mel Miller, building luxury small homes from $200,000. Her contemporary designs are being embraced by both the local council and residents.
“I think when you’ve led such a fruitful and independent life the last thing you want is to give it all up when you get older. I see this in my own parents who are still so independent in their 80s,” says Mel.
“Building a Funky Little Shack in your backyard for your elderly parents allows freedom for living. It maintains independence and privacy, and is an opportunity to build relationships and family support. Instead of giving $250,000+ to an aged care facility plus most of your pension, you could keep your pension, spend it how you wish, and build a Funky Little Shack for way less.”
In addition to giving power back to people in a time many feel powerless, Mel Miller highlights how you can keep wealth within the family unit.
“History shows that property appreciates in value over time and is known as a great way to hold wealth. I believe pooling family resources together is a great way to help the family unit as a whole. Adding one of our contemporary designs to your backyard can add real value to your property and lifestyle.”
Organisations like Anglicare and Blue Care provide support for the aged in their own homes. This includes occupational health, meal preparation, assistance with self-care and house cleaning. Your GP can provide a medical assessment on the care required while living at home.
Meanwhile, all Funky Little Shacks are fully customised, including wheelchair accessible with disability support. Check out one of our latest Shacks here.
“We provide a complete service. I sit down with you to fully understand your needs and custom design a home to your tastes and desires.
“Funky Little Shacks are designed to complement the style of your existing home. They’re contemporary designs; open plan with high/raked ceilings, expansive decks, lots of natural sunlight and cross breezes. I organise the builders and project manage the construction. The build is a fixed price with all inclusions and normally takes 7-8 weeks.”
The findings from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety have been a wake up call for many Aussies. It’s an issue extremely close to Mel’s heart.
“My late grandmother was always a fiercely strong and independent woman who lived in her own home until the age of 94. When she started to need support we moved her into an aged care facility. I watched as her emotional state and will to live deteriorated. She often complained about being treated poorly. We didn’t take much notice at the time, but in the wake of the Royal Commission her stories are starting to haunt me. I’ll always wonder about how we could have done things better.”
In the end it’s about providing a smarter, cheaper and sustainable alternative to aged care living. And most importantly, bringing families together.
If you’re interested in how Funky Little Shack can change the lives of you and your family we’d love to hear from you. Call us 1300 377 744 or click here to book your free consultation.
Hear from Cheryl below chatting about the upcoming Funky Little Shack we’re building for her mum Ivy: