Marika’s Journey – Dignity, Comfort and Companionship at Home
Understanding the Care Challenge
Before care was a consideration, Marika was the epitome of independence. A spirited woman, who lived alone, prepared her own meals and was proud of her daily two-mile walks. Friends and family who visit her home are always left with full hearts—and a full stomach. Alison her daughter recalled with fondness that “No one ever left the house hungry,”. It was this warmth and resilience that defined Marika’s life.
Out of the blue Marike caught a chest infection which developed into Pneumonia and resulted in a hospital stay. The pneumonia took 2 weeks to clear in which Marika was left bedbound and led to her becoming immobile and confused. The hospital strongly recommended 24-hour care, prompting Alison to begin exploring options. Although Marika had previously had one personal assistant who provided her with companionship after becoming widowed in 2019, it was clear she now needed a more comprehensive, round-the-clock support.
Moving forward with 24-hour care seemed to be the only solution to meeting Marika’s physical needs, but this would be a significant emotional change in Marika’s life.
Marika loved her home of 50 plus years, there were so many memories of her husband and family within the walls. But now Marika needed care and support of a personal nature, clinical monitoring of fluids which had to be limited alongside overview of Oedema and heart failure.
Why Promedica24?
Alison, who was Marika’s daughter, knew how well 24-hour care with Promedica24 had worked well for others, and after careful research and discussions, Alison reached out to the team to Promedica24 and arranged a care assessment. The Care assessment took place within 24 hours of the request. The assessment was comprehensive and extremely attentive to Marika’s individual needs. Alison discovered during that assessment not only could Marika’s physical needs be met, but Marika could stay at home where her emotional needs would also as well.
From the start, the dedication of the whole team stood out. Carers were thoughtfully matched, not only to support Marika’s physical needs but also to ensure they were compatible with her personality and preferences. Alison recalls one particular carer, 75 years Marika’s junior, who showed remarkable empathy, compassion and understanding. The connection between them was instant and they were inseparable, enabling her mother to live her best life with her health conditions.
A Life Lived at Home
Remaining in her own home was incredibly important to Marika. It wasn’t just a house, it was her family home, full of cherished memories. With live-in care from Promedica24, that wish became a reality when Marika needed it.
The care package was carefully tailored:
- Live-in care: offering proactive health support, personal care and reassurance overnight
- Personal assistants (PAs): in place from 8am–8pm, Monday to Friday
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the care journey was the connection that developed between Marika and her live-in carer, bonded by a shared love for fashion. This common ground brought joy and comfort to their routine as Marika had interrupted sleep patterns of long periods.
Memorable Moments
Marika’s sense of humor and unique perception often brought light-hearted moments. One that Alison cherishes is how Marika, who had dementia, would refer to the live-in carer as “the boy upstairs,” insisting to visitors that they must be quiet as “the man” was sleeping. The carer embraced this nickname without hesitation, understanding that in Marika’s mind, the presence of a “man” brought a sense of safety and reassurance.
Positive Outcomes and a Lasting Impact
The stability and companionship provided by the consistent presence of her live-in carer had a profound impact on Marika’s well-being. The carer became part of the family, welcomed with open arms, and brought a renewed sense of life and joy into the home.
Although the carer did not directly liaise with GPs or therapists, she remained vigilant, providing excellent handovers and immediately notifying Alison of any changes or concerns in her health. It was thanks to this level of attentiveness and communication that Marika was able to remain at home for end-of-life care, surrounded by love and familiarity. The transition, while difficult, was handled by the carer with grace, sensitivity, and deep compassion.
A Life Well Lived
On 26th December 2024, Marika celebrated an extraordinary milestone—her 100th birthday—surrounded by loved ones. A treasured photograph from that special day shows her beaming alongside her daughter, Alison.
Though Marika has passed away, her story is one of resilience, dignity and love. With the support of Promedica24, her final years were filled with comfort, familiarity and companionship within the home she so dearly cherished.
“Having the right care in place meant my mum could stay in the home she loved so dearly. The carer was more than supportive, vigilant and conscientious —more importantly she became part of our family.”
— Alison, Marika’s daughter
Contact your local Care Consultant today to learn more
Stay at home with the care you deserve.
A cost-effective alternative to residential care—reach out today.
📞 0800 086 8686
📧 care@promedica24.co.uk
🌐 promedica24homecare.co.uk
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