When Mary Helsby first met Promedica24 in March 2020, she was just days away from celebrating her 101st birthday. A fiercely independent woman with a sharp memory, a love for fashion, and a deep sense of community, Mary had spent the better part of her life in the same home in Newton, West Kirby a home she had shared with her late husband, Jim, for 57 happy years.

Despite being almost completely deaf and having minimal eyesight, Mary had managed to live alone with the support of her nieces and close-knit neighbours. However, a series of falls had begun to take their toll. When her local niece broke her ankle and could no longer provide regular support, it became clear that something more sustainable was needed.

Finding the Right Support

Mary’s local niece, a friend of our local care consultant Jonathan Hayley’s sister, turned to Promedica24 with one goal in mind: to help Mary remain at home. Knowing Mary’s deep-rooted connection to her surroundings, the family understood that moving into a care home would never be the right fit.

“She’d only lived in two houses her entire life,” recalls Jonathan. “Mary was incredibly attached to her home and the daily visits from neighbours over a slice of cake and a cup of tea.”

With the pandemic in full swing, safety was paramount. Mary’s family were understandably nervous about people entering and leaving the house. Drawing on our extensive network and resources, we were able to identify a suitable carer quickly – Patrycja and Jonathan personally drove to collect her from the South of England, ensuring a safe, direct transfer into Mary’s home.

Compassionate, Consistent Care

From day one, Patrycja proved to be a perfect match. Calm, patient, and deeply respectful of Mary’s routine and independence, she adapted seamlessly to Mary’s unique communication needs, speaking slowly and clearly to accommodate her hearing.

Every day was shaped around Mary’s preferences. She enjoyed long lie-ins, took pride in dressing stylishly even in her 100s, she never once wore trousers and spent afternoons chatting with neighbours. Our carers helped with gentle personal care, mealtimes, mobility, and companionship. It was care that felt like family.

What made Mary happiest was knowing she was safe and supported, yet still in control of her life. Over the four and a half years we supported her, only two carers Patrycja and Izabela shared the role, rotating every six weeks. This consistency was key to building trust and keeping Mary’s world familiar.

Dignity Through End-of-Life Care

In May 2024 shortly after Mary’s 105th birthday, Mary’s health declined suddenly. She became bedbound almost overnight. Patrycja, ever adaptable, stepped into a new role coordinating with visiting healthcare professionals, assisting with mobility equipment, and maintaining Mary’s personal care to the highest standard. Visiting nurses praised her dedication, and our care management team worked closely alongside all involved health professionals.

Mary’s final weeks were peaceful. Surrounded by familiar faces, favourite roses from her garden, and memories of a life well lived, she remained in the place she loved most—her home.

A Family’s Gratitude

Shortly after Mary passed, her niece Sally sent this heartfelt message:

“You have been the key to keeping Auntie Mary at home and happy. The support from Promedica24 has been exceptional. Patrycja and Izabela were a perfect match. They clearly cared for Mary very much and demonstrated it every day. I know she felt safe and well looked after.”

Mary’s story is a reminder of how powerful compassionate, consistent care at home can be. With the right support, even the most vulnerable among us can live with dignity, independence, and joy – right where they belong.

If you or your loved one wants to remain at home with 24/7 support, we’re here to help.

📞 Call: 01515 425 019
📧 Email: j.hayley@promedica24.co.uk
🌐 Learn more: https://promedica24homecare.co.uk/find-local-care-services-consultant/wirral-live-in-care/

More from our blog