When considering care options for her parents, Liz was driven by their long-standing wish to remain together in their cherished home. Having shared over six decades of their lives and a home for more than fifty years, the couple’s bond was unbreakable. Liz recalls conversations about this very scenario while organising Power of Attorney, cementing the decision to prioritise their desire for togetherness.
Exploring various care possibilities, including care homes, the family decided that transitioning J and M from their familiar surroundings might do more harm than good. Liz reflects, “We quickly realised that a big change like that would be too much for them and could be detrimental to their health and wellbeing.” The family’s intuition was guided by the understanding that familiarity and continuity were paramount to their parents’ well-being.
Opting for live-in care, the family sought to maintain their parents’ routine and provide them with the necessary assistance to continue living at home. Liz elaborates on the support provided by the live-in carers: “The carers help by preparing my parents’ meals, ensuring medication is taken at the right times, doing some laundry, providing personal care for my father, and taking him out for regular walks.” Moreover, the night carer plays a crucial role in soothing J’s nighttime restlessness, ensuring he feels secure and comforted.
The idea of live-in care was introduced to Liz through a friend whose mother had successfully benefited from such a service during her recovery from cancer. After careful consideration and exploration of various agencies, Promedica24 stood out as the chosen provider, aligning with the family’s vision for the care and support J and M needed.
Reflecting on the impact of live-in care, Liz shares, “Live-in care has given us reassurance that our parents are safe and being looked after at home, where they want to be.” Witnessing J’s progress from struggling with simple movements to now managing stairs and tasks independently, the family attests to the positive influence of the care arrangement.
Addressing potential misconceptions about live-in care, Liz admits to initial concerns about the potential disruptions of frequently changing carers. However, the consistent presence of carers over extended periods has brought continuity and stability to J and M’s lives. Additionally, her father’s shift in preference from male to female carers highlights the adaptability and comfort that comes from building relationships with the carers.
This year, J and M will celebrate their remarkable 60th wedding anniversary in November. Among the fondest memories etched in Liz’s heart are the vibrant gatherings in the family home, where laughter, joy, and shared meals formed the fabric of their lives. “We’re a big family with cousins living around the corner, so the house was lively, noisy, and happy,” Liz reminisces. Her parents’ warmth and hospitality created a haven where family and friends were embraced, making these moments a cherished legacy.
In the face of adversity, the family’s dedication to preserving the love and togetherness that define J and M’s relationship has been unwavering. Through the choice of live-in care, they have demonstrated that with compassion, understanding, and a commitment to honouring their parents’ wishes, it is possible to provide not just care, but a home filled with love and cherished memories.
