Marcus and Caden’s Healthy Community Spirit

Marcus and Caden’s Healthy Community Spirit

To round up Men’s Health Week we would like to shine the light on two brothers who, with the help of their family and Pathways To Care, have been very proactive in using their NDIS plans to gain a healthier and happier lifestyle.

Statistically, men and boys with a disability fall into a high-risk group for poor mental and physical health. Exercise, social interactions and mental development can help. Yet the pandemic has provided an extra barrier to accessing these vital activities. In the boy’s case, being affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) during unprecedented times has not held them back.

“I have been very proactive with my sons, guiding them in new ways across the challenging times and using our plans wisely for new activities.” Elizabeth Curran

Community service

Marcus and Caden have been busy maintaining 11 gardens where elderly people are tenants. Their hard work volunteering saved the elderly the expense of a regular gardener. It also provided the boys with fresh air and exercise.

Throughout the pandemic, Marcus and Caden have built a healthy relationship with the aged community (from a safe distance). It gives the boys an opportunity to perform a welfare check on the tenants at the same time and no doubt brightens their day.

Creative arts therapy

Expression through visual arts media is a well-known discipline to improve physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. There is no need to stop the creative flow during a lockdown as Caden discovered. His holistic art therapist Marissa continued her art sessions with Caden twice a week online.

Lessons in horticulture

Caden was able to learn about growing winter vegetables with a support worker. They used visuals to help with communication difficulties around learning about growing a healthy crop of carrots.

Digital technology support

Technology is always changing and Marcus is keen to keep up. IT specialist and support worker Chris, taught Marcus various tasks with his new iWatch around community safety and about using iTunes to transfer his music over to his iPhone. With healthcare employing more and more digital technology and the increasing option for remote health services opening up, having these skills will enable Caden to access any online services easily.

Pre-Covid sports

Ten-pin bowling is a great way to stay active and flex those competitive muscles. Caden seized the opportunity to participate in Special Olympics bowling and was rewarded for his efforts by coming third in his division. This was a fantastic regional competition and supported by Victorian Police who attend as part of the Special Olympic Torch run team.

Stay active

These are just a few examples of how people can stay active for a healthy body and mind, while crucially stay connected with the community during these challenging times.

If you would like to find out more about how Pathways to Care can connect you to the right support in the community and make the most out of your NDIS budget, contact us now. Our friendly team are happy to help with any questions you may have.

Thank you for being such a great inspiration to us all, Caden and Marcus!