Centre is making life easier

CARE: Manager Raewyn Cameron and centre co-ordinator Rose Boddy in the demonstration kitchen. PHOTO: RENEE CLAYTON

Palmerston North is the first city in New Zealand to have a fully-equipped centre for the disabled and elderly.

The EASIE Living and Demonstration Centre allows those in the sector to try out equipment and furniture aimed at helping them maintain their independence.

One of the many people using the service is local resident Louise Williams, assisted by her Occupational therapist Craig Gordon.

Ms Williams and Mr Gordon spent time at the centre trying out a variety of home modification options to support her to remain independent.

The centre's demonstration kitchen has sped up the process for Ms Williams in deciding the best options by having the ability to test the specially designed moveable bench.

It meant they could check that her wheelchair would fit under the bench while still using it comfortably.

Ms Williams said she was impressed with the range of equipment available and the thoughtfulness that went into helping her select the correct equipment to meet her needs.

Community Disability Support Services manager Raewyn Cameron said it's really encouraging to see the fantastic outcomes.

"It is great that we are able to help people to stay in their homes longer and continue to be independent.

There is a wide range of high tech to low tech options for everyone, we are even available to help future proof homes and offer advice on things people may need to make life easier in the future."

Within months of the store being open it received its first accolade.

Last week the Federation of Disability Information Centres held its annual conference. Enable New Zealand's EASIE Living Centre was awardedCentre of the Year in recognition of its innovative approach towards providing services.

EASIE stands for - Equipment, Advice, Services, Information and Education. The EASIE Living Centre is open Monday to Friday from 9am - 5pm, and Saturday from 10am --3pm.