Before joining one of our care homes for people living with dementia, Betty would often sit in her hallway with the front door open, talking to anyone who passed by. Concerned neighbours contacted social services, an intervention that would change her life for the better. Betty arrived at high risk of social isolation, self-neglect, and malnutrition.
On arrival, staff welcomed her warmly and gave her a tour of the home. When asked if she would like to stay, she replied, “Oh yes, it’s lovely.” Betty personally chose her room, and her life began to transform from that moment. She quickly settled in, made new friends, and became more relaxed and content in her surroundings.
As she shared her life story with staff, it became clear that she had lost touch with her brother, Fred. Staff worked to reconnect them, and when Fred visited, Betty was overjoyed. Several visits later, she also met her only nephew, who sends her gifts and treats as reminders that she is thought of.
Betty’s days are now filled with activity and connection. Children from the local nursery visit the home, and she has even been taken to see them at school. Staff also discovered her previous work as a secretary and office manager, explaining her attachment to the care home’s old typewriter, which she often uses, and the joy she finds greeting visitors at the front door.
Although Betty sometimes needs reminders of her own room due to advanced dementia, she has transformed from a lonely, vulnerable woman into someone full of wonder, enthusiasm, and chatty feistiness. Daily interaction with others has brought her to life, and she is always ready for a chat over a cup of tea. We feel incredibly lucky that she chose an Agincare home as her own.