Case Studies
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If you're new to the world of care and support and not sure what to expect, it can be helpful to read about other peoples' experiences
Live-in Care can be the perfect solution
This case study shows that when we say we offer the standard of care we would want for our own parents, we really do mean it. Our very own Director, Claire, reports on the case of her mother-in-law Shirley.
Canadian-born Shirley came to the UK as a young mum with her husband and two small boys, knowing no-one. The family moved into a newly built home and gradually Shirley made her life here. Shirley’s home was always her “safe” space and kept her grounded through uncertain times. Her first husband died young after a sudden heart attack, an event which shook the family to its core. Years later Shirley married again and her new husband Bill came to live with her. They too enjoyed a happy marriage, although Bill passed away peacefully in his chair in 2018. Since then, Shirley has lived alone by choice. She has learned to be strong.
Now 92, Shirley values her independence and autonomy as much as ever. However, a recent accident landed her in hospital, with limitations to her mobility and a lot of pain.
Shirley wanted to get home as soon as possible. Hospitals in winter are busy, understaffed places and not always conducive to recovery.
But Shirley’s injuries meant she needed substantial support around the clock to get her strength back. Shirley wanted to be in the home she has lived in for more than 60 years, in her familiar surroundings, her “safe” space, with familiar things, close to her friends and neighbours, and - most importantly - with full autonomy over her routines.
Shirley accepted a live-in carer at home as an interim measure. Their job was to help keep Shirley safe when mobilising around the house, assist with rehab exercises, prepare nutritious meals to coax back appetite, and fulfil any other tasks Shirley needed help with since the accident. Their joint aim was to restore Shirley’s full independence, possibly getting her stronger than before the accident.
Shirley said “I really didn’t want to have someone living with me but I also knew this was the price to pay to get home quickly. In the event, Audrey was fantastic, kind and friendly without being overbearing and often I hardly knew she was there! She knew just what to do and when. I’m independent again now, but if ever my circumstances change I won’t hesitate in having Audrey back.”