For many individuals who require support with daily living, Live-in Care can be a transformative solution. In this blog, we share the experiences of someone who has been receiving care for over two decades, highlighting the impact it has had on their life and well-being.
The Journey into Care
Our interviewee began receiving care in their 40s, from her mother. The support started with domiciliary care for her, then for her and her mother, but transitioned to Live-in Care in 2015. Six months later, additional care was required for their father, leading to the presence of two live-in carers in the home.
Living with Mobility Challenges
Due to arthritis and mobility issues, everyday tasks such as dressing, washing, cooking, and going out require assistance. When their parents were alive, they also needed similar support, particularly as both had dementia. The presence of Live-in Care ensured they all received the help they needed to maintain a good quality of life.
Adjusting to Live-In Care
Initially, welcoming a carer into the home was daunting. There was a sense of losing privacy and feeling watched. However, it also provided a much-needed sense of security. With the responsibility of looking after their parents, the arrival of live-in carers was a relief. While it was challenging to adapt to a new person in the house, the ability to train them to fit their needs made the transition easier.
Everyday Support and Activities
Beyond essential personal care, the carer assists with various tasks, including paperwork and volunteering activities. The ability to have consistent support has brought a sense of stability and independence. Tasks such as using the printer and shredding documents have become more manageable, allowing for continued engagement in daily routines.
The Difference Live-In Care Makes
The presence of a live-in carer has made a significant impact. Safety, stability, and the ability to maintain a routine are among the key benefits. Previously, going out required waiting for a domiciliary carer’s scheduled visit. Now, outings are much more flexible. Attending musical evenings and other events has become a regular part of life, with the carer providing necessary support, such as helping with a coat and wheelchair access.
The Alternative: Staying at Home vs. Moving Elsewhere
Without a live-in carer, remaining at home would not be possible. Assistance is required for putting on a CPAP mask at night and managing oxygen needs. Live-in Care has enabled the individual to continue living in familiar surroundings, maintaining a sense of independence.
Choosing Live-In Care
After experiencing domiciliary care, Live-in Care became the preferred option, especially for ensuring that their parents could remain at home. A critical moment came when their mother became disoriented one Sunday, leaving them waiting helplessly for a carer to arrive. In response, multiple Live-in Care agencies were contacted, and Access Care was the only one who were able to send a carer the next day, providing immediate relief and support.
A Happy and Supportive Environment
Today, the arrangement is working well. Familiar carers create a sense of continuity and companionship. Shared interests, such as music, enhance the experience, making daily life more enjoyable. The mutual support between carer and recipient fosters a positive relationship, reinforcing the value of Live-in Care.
Conclusion
Live-in Care has been life-changing, providing not only practical support but also emotional reassurance and companionship. For those considering care options, this personal story illustrates the profound impact that Live-in Care can have on safety, independence, and overall well-being.
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