Live-in carer story – Connie and Elena

We decided on Agincare because they took care of everything. With other providers we looked at you had to pay travelling expenses, etc. But we didn’t want any extra complications, just to pay a monthly fee that covered everything.

So we chose Agincare, and Elena came to live with Mum. As soon as Elena arrived she and Mum just clicked. Elena looked after Mum’s physical condition, but it was more than that. They both had the same mischievous sense of humour and were real kindred spirits. They loved watching television together or taking a turn around the block – Elena would push Mum in a wheelchair.

Mum taught Elena to knit, and Elena was able to pick up any stitches Mum dropped. Mum’s quality of life was undoubtedly enhanced by Elena supporting her at home. Elena became part of the family, and together, she and Mum made a great team.

Being at home, surrounded by her own things and having her independence meant that Mum could have visitors whenever she wanted.

There was always someone dropping round for a cup of tea. Mum was perfectly happy with the situation. For her and us there were no drawbacks to live-in care – it worked really well.

While Elena was on holiday in Romania Mum’s health deteriorated. Agincare always arranged a care worker to cover Elena’s holidays, and Gina coped brilliantly. She obviously had experience of end of life care and didn’t flap – she just got on with making sure Mum was comfortable and well cared-for.

We could tell that Mum was determined to hang on until Elena returned – that just shows how strong the bond between them was, and how much Elena’s companionship, compassion, care and friendship meant to her. When Elena arrived back at the house Mum said her name. It was the first time she’d spoken in days.

When Mum died a week later she was at home, surrounded by family, including Elena. That’s what live-in care does – it brought Mum dignity, independence and genuine friendship.

We could not have asked for better support.