For many people, receiving care isn’t just about support with daily tasks—it’s about companionship, reassurance, and feeling connected. Irene Parsons has been with Unique Senior Care for nearly ten years. Her journey, shaped by both loss and resilience, highlights just how valuable compassionate care can be.
Life Before Care: A Journey of Love and Loss
Irene moved into her flat with her husband, and for years, they built a life together. But as time went on, his health began to decline. He suffered multiple heart attacks and was later diagnosed with dementia. As his needs increased, carers became part of their daily routine, providing the extra support they both needed.
When Irene’s husband passed away three years ago, everything changed. Not only was she grieving his loss, but she also faced new challenges of her own. Having had to undergo a leg amputation, she found herself needing care more than ever. “We both ended up with carers,” Irene shares. “And when my husband died, I had to carry on with carers—only having one leg.”
Daily Support That Makes a Difference
Now, Irene receives visits from her Caregivers twice a day—once in the morning to help her get ready and again in the evening to settle in for the night. “They help me in the morning with my shower and to get dressed,” she explains. “Then they come back in the evening to get me undressed and ready for bed.”
This support allows Irene to maintain her routine and feel comfortable in her own home. But beyond the practical side of care, it’s the companionship that she values the most. “If you didn’t see them and you didn’t go out, you wouldn’t see anybody.”
More Than Just Care—A Friendly Face
Living alone can be isolating, but Irene’s Caregivers help to brighten her day. “I like having them because sometimes you’re just sat in a flat on your own,” she shares. “You’ve got the telly on and Alexa, but it’s not the same as actually speaking to somebody.”
Each visit brings not just assistance but conversation and connection. “They make my breakfast and my cup of coffee after my shower, and we have a little natter,” Irene says. “And at night, they make me a coffee or get me anything I want.”
It’s these simple moments—sharing stories, talking about family, and checking in—that make a real difference. “We show each other photos of family and talk about things like that. It’s very good.”
Feeling Safe and Supported
For Irene, Unique Senior Care has been a constant source of support. “All the time I’ve been here, I’ve always used Unique—nobody else,” she says. “And I find them very good, very helpful.”
The kindness of her Caregivers reassures her that she is never alone. “They’re really nice and friendly, and they always stop and say, ‘Is there anything else I can do for you?’ or ‘What are you doing today?’”
This thoughtful approach helps Irene feel cared for beyond just the essentials—it makes her feel valued. “I like it because everyone’s so nice and friendly, and you don’t feel as if you’re left on your own all day.”
The Importance of Companionship in Care
Irene’s story is a reminder that good care isn’t just about meeting practical needs—it’s about bringing comfort, conversation, and a sense of connection. Having someone to talk to, share memories with, and simply spend time with can make all the difference.
For those who may be considering care for themselves or a loved one, Irene’s experience shows how the right support can help maintain independence while also providing much-needed companionship.
FAQ: Understanding the Role of Caregivers
Caregivers assist with personal care, meal preparation, mobility support, and companionship. They also provide reassurance and emotional support, helping clients maintain a sense of independence in their own homes.
Caregivers assist with personal care, meal preparation, mobility support, and companionship. Their role is to provide practical help while also offering emotional reassurance.
Regular interaction with Caregivers helps combat loneliness, keeps the mind engaged, and provides emotional support. This sense of connection can improve overall mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance the quality of life for those receiving care.
Regular interaction with Caregivers helps combat loneliness, keeps the mind engaged, and provides emotional support, which is vital for mental well-being.
Our focus goes beyond care tasks—we prioritise relationships, ensuring every client feels heard, valued, and supported. Our Caregivers take the time to build genuine connections, making a real difference in the lives of those they care for.
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With over 40 years of experience in the care industry, providing outstanding care has always been Helena’s core mission.
Helena has been a dedicated member of Unique Senior Care for eight years, starting as Care Manager and advancing to Head of Extra Care and now serving as Director of Operations.
She holds a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People’s Services (England), as well as a Diploma in Welfare Services. Helena has completed various leadership and management courses, enhancing her expertise in the care industry.
Helena has authored published articles, including one for Skills for Care on managing change through the COVID pandemic. She has a steadfast commitment to advocating for and supporting those in need, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights upheld.
