At 81, Elaine Bramble is a wonderful example of what it means to live with quiet courage and genuine joy. After the passing of her husband, Alan, in September 2024, she faced one of life’s hardest moments with grace.
In time, she made the thoughtful decision to move into the Carinity Shalom retirement village in Rockhampton – a choice centred on finding connection, maintaining her independence, and opening herself to a new beginning.
A life shaped by family and resilience
Born and raised in Rockhampton, Elaine’s life has always been anchored by family. She and Alan met at a dance when she was 19, married at 22, and built a loving life together with their daughters, Judy and Suzy.
The children’s sport, and later a shared passion for bowls, was central to their family life and strong community connections.
Elaine’s positivity has been shaped by a lifetime of looking forward with strength and hope. She has faced some deeply challenging moments. Through it all, she and Alan leaned on each other with love and unwavering support.
“We learnt to never give up and keep going,” Elaine said.
That resilience carried her through her own battle with bowel cancer, when Alan cared for her with devotion. Later, she returned that same care when Alan faced his own illness.
“It was my turn to support Alan with his bowel cancer and heart condition,” Elaine recalled. “And our daughters were always there for both of us.”
Finding belonging at Shalom Village
After Alan’s passing, Elaine’s move to Carinity Shalom retirement village began with a simple conversation. Her friend Val spoke warmly about life at Shalom, and after chatting with Val’s family, Elaine felt reassured.
With her daughters’ support, Shalom quickly became the clear choice. From the moment she arrived, it felt right for Elaine.
“I needed to feel part of a community of people like me, and still live independently. It feels like home, and I’ve made new and wonderful friends – women in similar situations to myself,” she said.
Elaine had hoped for social interaction, a supportive community, and a safe environment that would give her and her family peace of mind. Today, she has all of that. Her week is filled with activity.
Some of her favourite moments are the simplest ones: weekly indoor bowls, bingo with friends, resident gatherings, and gentle walks around the village with Stella, her physiotherapist.
These small rituals have become part of a life that feels full again, shaped by connection, independence, and the quiet bravery of choosing a new beginning.
Carinity’s support along the way
Elaine and Alan’s journey with Carinity first began with the Carinity Home Care team in Rockhampton, receiving entry level cleaning support through the Commonwealth Home Support Program.
As Alan’s health declined, hospital nurses fast tracked both their My Aged Care referrals for more care and support at home, ensuring Alan would have the support he needed when he came home. Importantly, they also provided support for Elaine to help with Alan’s needs.
Jane, Elaine’s Care Partner at Carinity Home Care, worked to adjust the support Elaine received when she moved to Shalom, tailoring her services to help ensure she could live independently in her new home.
“The communication with myself and my daughters is simply wonderful,” Elaine shared.
Today, Elaine’s support focuses on weekly physiotherapy sessions and regular podiatry visits.
“My physio, Stella, visits weekly to assist with my osteoarthritis and help manage the pain. Stella keeps me moving, walking with me around the village most visits. Having Stella visit me in my own home means I don’t need to travel to clinics.”
Elaine’s mobility has improved, and her independence remains strong.
“At the age of 81, I’m still living independently – it is great!”
