“Moorhaven allows me to be the person I was before Parkinson’s and dementia entered our lives”
A diagnosis of dementia can be life-changing, challenging and unsettling. However, as one Taunton couple discovered, getting the right support in place can be life-enhancing for both the individual living with dementia and their loved ones.
Too often, we hear of people struggling with the weight of responsibility that comes with being an informal family carer for a loved one who is living with dementia. The desire to care for a loved one is valiant and heartwarming, but it is frequently accompanied by a misplaced sense of guilt about feeling unable to single-handedly meet all of their needs, all of the time.
Many people find ad-hoc or temporary care solutions such as day care and respite breaks a helpful, additional source of support. Both options are delivered by experienced carers in a residential care setting, ensuring that the individual receives the support they need in a safe and stimulating environment, whilst their loved ones take a well-earned break from being their carer.
Short-term care which makes a big difference
Mrs Denton explains what regular day care visits at Moorhaven respite and residential care home in Taunton, mean to her and her husband:
“I originally went to look at Moorhaven with a view to a week of respite care for my husband when I go on holiday. He has Parkinson’s Disease and, more recently, a diagnosis of dementia amongst other things, and is at risk of falls.
“Whilst there, [Registered Manager] Michaela mentioned that they offer day care also, which seemed a great way to get him used to Moorhaven and staff and they to him, before staying.
“The idea of my husband being with staff who would get to know him and notice if something was amiss appealed. I also felt that he needed some more social interaction, even though he is quite introverted.
“Initially he attended one day a week and now goes twice weekly. This time allows me to meet up with my friends, work on our allotment, do nothing or paint the garden fence, as I did on [August] Bank Holiday Monday.
“I know he is well looked after and that I will be contacted if there are problems.
“In essence, Moorhaven allows me to be the person I was before Parkinson’s and dementia entered our lives, and I can forget about them for 12 hours a week.”
Peace of mind for families
Michaela Cooper, Registered Manager at Moorhaven, adds:
“We are privileged to see first-hand the positive impact that day care and respite breaks can make to families, especially when they are supporting a loved one who lives with dementia. It has been wonderful to witness the difference that this has made in the lives of Mr and Mrs Denton.
“Our day care services at Moorhaven are designed to offer a safe, welcoming environment for older adults to enjoy companionship, engaging activities, nutritious meals and professional care – all tailored to their individual needs. They also provide a valuable opportunity for family carers to catch their breath, take stock and remember the person they are underneath, with the peace of mind that comes with knowing their loved one is in safe hands.”
Retain your independence with the right support
Somerset Care’s day care and respite services can support you and your loved ones to remain independent at home for longer. To find out about the care and support options available near you, please speak to a member of our friendly and knowledgeable care enquiries team on 0800 8174 990, or use the contact form below to get in touch.
