Lonehill woman finds mission to help seniors
As more families look for flexible ways to care for ageing loved ones, a growing partnership between home-based caregivers and retirement facilities is reshaping elder care in the northern suburbs.
Lonehill entrepreneur Alison Buchanan, founder of Ali Cares, has built her service to help seniors remain independent in their own homes, with professionals in the retirement sector increasingly supporting her work.
A representative from Totalcare Living, Leilani Kuter, said there is a clear shift toward home-based support, as many elderly residents are reluctant to leave familiar surroundings.
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“Many people value their independence and find it difficult to accept changes that require additional care. Being at home allows them to maintain a sense of control, comfort, and dignity.”
Buchanan admits that this reflects what she experienced with her own grandfather, whose reluctance to move into a care facility ultimately inspired her to start Ali Cares.
“I used to stay far from my grandfather, and would often ask friends to accompany him for his check-ups. After he passed on three years ago, it hit me that I must start Ali Cares, not only in his memory, but for families going through the same.”
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Services like hers, which include transport, companionship, errands, and post-operative support, are increasingly seen as complementing, rather than replacing, traditional care facilities. “Independent caregivers play a very important role alongside retirement homes,” Kuter said.
“They provide personalised care, emotional support, and companionship, helping individuals feel safe and valued. It also brings peace of mind to families who may not always be nearby.
“We value working closely with care providers like Ali Cares, to ensure each resident receives support that suits their individual needs.”
Buchanan said there are challenges that she faces, especially during the first interactions with her clients.
“Most of the time, when I meet my clients for the first time, they are not interested in me and see me as the enemy, but as long as you have patience, your relationship grows and you become attached. It’s amazing.”
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