Arthur & Iris's Story
From Uncertainty to Reassurance at Home
For several years, Iris was Arthur's main carer at home. But as Arthur's mobility gradually declined, everyday life became increasingly difficult and Iris found herself unsure where to turn for help. After their community rehabilitation and physiotherapy team recommended Bluebird Care, professional support gave Iris something she had been missing: guidance, reassurance and people she knew she could rely on.
We wouldn't be without you now.
When caring alone became too much
Arthur's mobility had been declining and, following several falls and changes to his speech, Iris and Arthur sought medical help.
As his mobility deteriorated further, Iris found it increasingly difficult to support him safely around their home.
She explained:
I didn't know what to do, I need guidance and didn't know where to go for it.
Having previously managed Arthur's care herself, reaching the point where she needed additional support was a significant change.
Finding support through a recommendation
Arthur and Iris already had support from a community rehabilitation and physiotherapy team, who recommended Bluebird Care.
When care began, Iris described how she felt in one word:
Relieved.
She explained that they had never had care before because she had previously done everything herself, but the situation had become increasingly difficult.
Having additional support in place has “taken so much pressure off me,” Iris said.
Finding a practical solution for Arthur
At one stage, Arthur had been in bed for eight weeks and was unable to get out.
After assessing the situation, the team suggested involving an Occupational Therapist to explore whether a full hoist could help Arthur transfer safely into his chair.
The hoist was arranged quickly and has enabled Arthur to get out of bed and sit in his chair during the morning.
For Arthur and Iris, having the right equipment alongside professional care has made an important difference to their everyday routine.
Care built around relationships
The people providing Arthur's care have also become an important part of their experience.
Iris remembers Damola as one of the first Care Experts to support Arthur:
Damola was the first carer I remember coming to see Arthur. She was fantastic and still remains to be fantastic today.
It's the accumulation of smaller moments, however, that Iris feels creates the full picture of their care.
She particularly highlighted Arthur's relationship with Mike:
Arthur loves Mike, Arthur laughs with him which he doesn't do with many people. I can tell he really likes him.
These relationships have helped make care a positive and familiar part of life at home.
Giving Iris time for herself
Arthur's condition means Iris does not expect his health to improve. For the couple, the focus is therefore on making sure his needs are met and that he is safe and well supported.
Having care in place has also made a significant difference to Iris.
She said:
I am now able to have time for myself. Knowing Arthur is safe and well looked after, that all his needs are being met. The pressure has been taken off me.
After spending years as Arthur's main carer, having people she can rely on means Iris doesn't have to carry that responsibility entirely by herself.
Support they can rely on
For Iris, one of the most valuable parts of their care is simply knowing support is there when they need it.
When asked what type of support they needed, she described it as:
Mainly just guidance and knowing that we can rely on someone if we need you.
And when reflecting on the difference Bluebird Care now makes to their lives, her answer was simple:
We wouldn't be without you now.
Could some extra support make caring for someone easier?
If you're caring for your husband, wife, partner or another family member at home, you don't have to manage everything alone.
Our Canterbury & Thanet team can take the time to understand your circumstances and explore personalised support that works alongside the care you already provide.