Lived in the same home for 60 years

Arthur and Margaret Way have been married for 63 years and have lived in the same house for 60 years. They raised their sons Paul and Philip there. Taking pride of place on the living room wall is a framed card from the King and Queen. It congratulates them on their diamond wedding anniversary.

Arthur is now 85 and his wife 83. However, being able to continue to live together has become harder in recent years. Dementia has gradually taken a greater hold over Margaret, and mobility has become restricted.

“I made a promise to Margaret that I wouldn’t let anyone put her in a home,” said Arthur. “We have been in this house for 60 years, it’s where we raised our family and she knows the surroundings, I couldn’t take that from her.”

It was just over four years ago when Margaret was in hospital recovering from Covid. At that time, Arthur realised he needed help if he was to keep his promise.

“I was finding it very difficult to help her up the stairs and the hospital said they couldn’t let her go home unless there was help so we got in touch with Caremark and they have been brilliant,” said Arthur.

The carers are very good

Caremark visit four times a day. They help Margaret get up, dressed and into her wheelchair each morning. They also help her move about during the day. In the evening, they assist her in getting back into bed.

They’ll also sit with Margaret for four hours each week to allow Arthur some respite and time to visit a friend. Moreover, family visit regularly bringing shopping, cleaning and preparing the couple’s meals for the week.

 “The carers are very good with Margaret, I can tell they care, they will make sure Margaret is washed and clean before they leave however long it takes,” he said. “They even bring her gifts on her birthday and Christmas which is kind of them.”

Arthur also values the social contact with the home support team.

“I enjoy seeing them every day, we can have a chat and a laugh and when they look after Margaret for a few hours I can get out to see my friend,” he said.

Being in our own home helps Margaret

In their younger years the couple enjoyed many holidays in sunnier climes including Benidorm, Minorca and Malta. Now, when the sun is out Arthur will take Margaret in her wheelchair to the park. He is a keen gardener and likes to bring her fresh flowers from the garden. 

“Margaret still enjoys her food and flowers and there are moments when her memory returns and she recognises me and says my name,” said Arthur.

“I do think being in our own home, a place she knows, helps with that.”  

About Caremark Barnsley

If you, or someone you know, needs support to be able to remain at home, please view our home care services in Barnsley.