MARY’S STORY
I’m Mary (or May to friends and family) and I’m 97 years old. I’ve lived in Lllanelli all my life. My daughter is in London and sadly, my husband died a few years ago. I used to love getting out and about with my sisters, and I was very keen gardener. I fell downstairs a while ago so I had to spend some time in hospital and then I stopped going out because it was too worrying for me. My mood goes up and down because I’m stuck in the house.
How did MiHomecare help me?
When I came out of hospital, at first I had one visit a day from a careworker, to make sure I’d remembered to take my medication and to check that I’d eaten and drunk something because sometimes I forgot or didn’t make the effort.
I enjoyed the visits, and when they suggested I took my own medication, I didn’t want to because that meant they wouldn’t come to see me anymore. They reassured me and encouraged me to get out and about again, so I didn’t feel so isolated in my home. They put my medication next to the kettle so it nudged my memory when I made my morning cuppa.
I was scared to go out into the garden in case I fell again, so they provided me with a wrist fall band. Now I know that someone will be alerted if I do lose my balance again and need emergency assistance. I was reluctant to go into town as well, but they found out I liked charity shops, so after a lot of persuasion, I agreed to go with one of the careworkers. Since then, I haven’t looked back.
What difference has it made in my life?
Thanks to MiHomecare’s support, I’m much better at eating and drinking properly, and I remember take my own medication. I feel confident going out in the garden, and, every so often, I book a taxi for myself, go into town and meet my sisters for a coffee or a meal and a natter. I’m much happier in myself because I don’t sit on my own and stare at four walls all day, every day.
