Home care support for a disabled young person
When looking to provide home care support for a disabled young person, an important first step is to win the confidence and trust of the parents.
Joan Martin has been using Caremark Redcar and Cleveland for the past 15 years to provide support for her daughter Sarah, who has been severely disabled since birth.
“Allowing someone into your home is a big step, I have anxiety and I did worry about that,” said Joan.
“Now I trust the carers who visit and I am happy with them all.”
Sarah is unable to walk or talk and at risk of seizures. She can see and hear and enjoys listening to music and going outside in her wheelchair.
Care Assistants visit Sarah each morning
Carers visit every morning to help Sarah get washed and dressed whilst Joan prepares her daughter’s medication. They also provide respite evening care once a fortnight to allow Joan and husband Tony time to go out together.
Joan, 71, reserves special praise for the lead carer, Karen, who she says has developed a special bond with Sarah, 35.
“She cares for her as if she would her own child,” says Joan. “It is clear from the smile on her face that she recognises Karen and looks forward to seeing her in the morning.”
Joan hopes Sarah can remain living with them in the family home for as long as possible. Now in her seventies she knows she can turn to Karen for additional support and help if anything arises.
I know Sarah is in safe hands with Caremark
“Karen has gained our trust to the point where she is like part of the family,” said Joan.
“I know Sarah is in safe hands with Karen, she will sit with her to allow me and my husband some time together which is deeply appreciated.”
From her years of experience observing how carers support her own child, Joan believes there are key qualities to being a good carer.
“There are some who just cannot work with young, disabled people and as a mother you can sense straight away they are not right for the job,” said Joan.
“To be a good carer like Karen you have to be sincere and you have to enjoy the role.”
About Caremark Redcar and Cleveland
Caremark Redcar and Cleveland provides home care support for a range of customers, from young people with disabilities and complex needs like Sarah to older people who just need help with everyday tasks such as meal preparation, cleaning and personal care. To find out more about our range of services, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us today.