Important respite

Home care support not only offers vital day to day help for those looking to remain living in their own homes, it also provides important respite for family members.

For Tracey Fisher, who moved in with her dad Michael Aston to care for him when dementia took hold, those precious few hours of respite, as well as the emotional support Caremark has provided, are vital.

“Caremark were recommended to me by social services after the previous care company was no longer able to cater for dad’s needs,” said Tracey. ”The carers that visit are very good and I feel I can trust them completely with dad. They will have a laugh with him, especially when he gets onto his favourite subject which is money.”

Michael, 87, worked as an engineer before running a guest house in Blackpool and then a café in Coventry with his wife Barbara.

She died in 2019 and Michael’s dementia worsened which led to Tracey moving in to provide full time care, supported by Caremark Leeds who visit on a morning and evening to help Michael with his medication.

“They are wonderful, they will take him out for a walk round Roundhay Park. He’s not that mobile but still manages to plod around in the fresh air which he enjoys,” said Tracey.

With four children of her own and grandchildren, Tracey has plenty of things to do as well as caring for her dad.

“The Caremark visits give me a three hour window where I can do what I want with the peace of mind that dad is being looked after,” said Tracey, who has special praise for Caremark Field Care Supervisor Sarah Hollingsworth.

“Sarah is absolutely fantastic. If I have a problem or I’m feeling low I know I can give her a call and she’s there for me. If  I can’t get dad to take his medication she says “right, I’m on my way” and will help me.”