Support can go a long way

Michael and Maureen have found that a little home care support can go a long way. They first began using Caremark Leeds two years ago when Maureen’s mobility became severely restricted and now Michael also receives support from us.

“I have a bad leg from a couple of falls and doing the weekly shop was knocking ten bells out of me,” said Michael.

“Kasia, Maureen’s main care assistant, started staying on an extra three hours once a week to do the shopping and help with some cleaning and tidying around the house and it has made a massive difference.”

Michael, 83 and Maureen, 79, have been married for 46 years. They first met in Leeds at the Mecca ballroom but Michael admits it wasn’t his dancing skills that impressed his wife-to-be.

“I am to dancing what Ronnie Corbett is to basketball,” he confesses. “But I had a car and we used to drive to Scarborough on a Saturday, enjoy the pictures, a nice Chinese meal and walk along the seafront.”

Before retiring, Michael worked all his life as a printer and Maureen had several jobs, her favourite as a secretary.

In recent years Maureen’s health has deteriorated and she had to be looked after in a care home when Michael had to have a spell in hospital. Now the couple are keen to stay together in their own home.

 “Kasia helps us to do that, she’s wonderful and we trust her,” says Michael. “Two days is just right for us, it gives us plenty time for ourselves but also ensures we have that help we need and I don’t get exhausted.”

And Maureen also looks forward to Kasia’s visits.

“She reminds me of when I was young,” she says.

And Kasia enjoys her time with the couple: “I love to visit Michael and Maureen and we have a developed a great relationship,” she says. “They are great people, who are always happy and have a positive approach to life.”