The option of a homeshare arrangement brings peace of mind for relatives and loved ones of those using the service. In fact for Deborah*, whose Mother and Father-in-law both live with dementia, homeshare has totally transformed their lives. Here she tells us why homeshare means so much to her and her family.
Q: Tell me about your Mother & Father-in-Law’s homeshare arrangement
My Mother is in her 80s and homeshares in South West England. Lockdown was an appalling experience for her and it significantly affected her dementia in a short space of time. Susan*, my Mum’s sharer, moved in during 2021 with her two Spaniels and it has been absolutely mind-blowing.
With the support of Susan in the home, Mum has made a huge recovery from where she was. Her social life is once again busy, she is more engaged with life, and she is taking better care of herself. Even having the dogs around brings my Mum a sense of joy as she always used to have dogs herself.
My Father-in-Law, in his 90s, lives in South West London, and was sadly widowed before the pandemic. His sharer is also amazing and they work so well together, even down to the smaller things like leaving a note to say where she is, or reminding him to eat breakfast.
Both sharers are incredible and so good for my Mother and Father-in-Law; they probably go way over and above what they should do, but it works well for everyone.
Q: What type of activities do the sharers and your relatives do together?
The sharers have done a fantastic job of encouraging my Mother and Father-in-Law to get involved in various activities and reignite their interest in the things that they used to enjoy.
For instance, my Mother has re-joined a book club and regularly attends the local group. Susan also recently took her to the theatre to see a show – it wasn’t something she was asked to do, she just did it off her own back which is so kind.
Q: What impact does homeshare have on you as a family member?
Homesharing is life changing, for both my Mother and Father-in-Law, as well as the entire family. At this point in their lives homeshare is the perfect answer; it enables them both to remain in their own homes, living an independent and fulfilling life.
Of course, at some point in the future their needs may become more advanced, and we may have to go back to the drawing board but right now it is exceeding our expectations. We couldn’t have asked for more.
- What would you say to people considering a homeshare arrangement?
We are the most satisfied Share and Care Homeshare customers on the planet! It should be on the front of every newspaper out there. People can’t believe us when they hear how well homeshare is working for our family.
The impact of homeshare is extraordinary, and the deep friendships that have been formed are incredible.
*Names are changed to protect identity.
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