After 45 years in their beloved multi-level home, John and Wendy knew they needed a change when John’s Parkinson’s worsened and his mobility declined.
They found the perfect fit in Catalina Village—a peaceful, wheelchair-friendly community offering both independence and support.
Surrounded by kind neighbours, helpful staff, and additional caregiving services, John and Wendy embraced this new chapter, finding not just a place to live, but a vibrant environment where they could thrive and grow.
A new beginning
At 80, John Schiller reflects on the life changes that led him and his wife, Wendy, from their home of 45 years to Catalina Village.
For most of their lives, John and Wendy were academics, living on the shores of Lake Macquarie in their Bolton Point home. It was the kind of house filled with history and memories—multi-level, sprawling, and sentimental.
But in 2014, their lives took a turn when John was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
“We managed for a while,” John explains. “But by 2020, things really started to change. My walking ability declined sharply, and suddenly, it wasn’t just a house anymore—it became an obstacle.” Wendy adds, “The stairs, the different levels—it was clear we needed somewhere more accessible.”
The search for a home where John could move easily led them to Catalina Village. “It felt like luck,” John says, describing how they came upon the perfect house. “Everything here is flat—wide corridors, easy-access doors, and a spacious bathroom. It’s wheelchair-friendly and the whole village is designed to be accessible.”
Adjusting to the new lifestyle came with challenges, but their new home and the support they’ve received has been transformative.
“We’ve had extra help from our home care provider,” says Wendy. “With my back problems, lifting John or helping him out of bed can be really difficult.” Each morning, a caregiver arrives to assist John, helping him dress and easing the routine that had once felt overwhelming.
“A year ago, we wouldn’t have thought we needed this kind of help,” John admits. “But these services have enhanced our well-being—they allow us to stay independent without feeling institutionalised.”
The couple also discovered that Catalina Village is more than just a place to live—it’s an intellectually vibrant community. “We’ve met so many fascinating people here,” John says. “People who have travelled, who have done interesting things, and who still engage with life fully. It’s inspiring.”
“Catalina Village isn’t a place where people sit and deteriorate—it’s full of life and ideas. We’ve found ourselves growing too,” adds Wendy.
For John and Wendy, their home at Catalina isn’t a place to live—it’s a new beginning. A place to live freely, supported by community and care, with room for new memories and a future filled with possibility.*
* edited extract December 2023
“Everything’s on the same level. Wide corridors, a spacious bathroom, easy-access doors, and the whole campus is wheelchair accessible. It’s made life much easier. John can get to the community centre and even the pool without a hitch.”
Stay in the loop
Sign up to our newsletter for news and updates.