From carer to companion: How Homelium Care helped Doug find himself again
Many family members step into the role of a carer out of love, often without realising just how much it will change their lives. For many, this role becomes all-encompassing, they stop being just a son, daughter, or partner and become the carer. This role continues until the very end of their loved one’s care journey, a beautiful but emotional testament to love and dedication.
This was the case for Doug, a loving husband to Audrey, who he cared for and protected until the very end. Despite Doug's boundless love for his partner, he became isolated and overwhelmed when it came to what Audrey required in terms of care. He was no longer just Audrey’s husband; he was her main carer.
Although Doug may have felt this way, he is far from alone. According to Age UK, around 940,000 older people in the UK say they often feel lonely. This loneliness can be deepened by the emotional strain of caring for a loved one and the profound loss that follows when that care journey comes to an end. It’s a quiet struggle faced by many and one that highlights just how important compassionate and continued support can be.
After reaching out for help from Homelium, Doug was able to become a husband again thanks to the help from carers like Sharon. “It was like an angel coming down from heaven” Were the words Doug used to describe the support Sharon was able to provide. “I could not have done it without her”. Sharon gave Doug respite from his care duties, allowing him to have some time for himself and doing the things he loves whilst knowing his wife was in safe hands.
Even after Doug’s care journey ended, Sharon remained a part of his life, becoming more like family than a former carer. Every week, she takes the time to visit Doug for a cup of tea and a chat, offering companionship and comfort, even if just for an hour. Doug says that the hour with Sharon “opens up life for him” as she may be the only person he sees that week.
Having a team that cares even after the care is over is what sets Homelium apart. They recognise how isolating life can feel for people like Doug, who give so much of themselves to care for a loved one. To offer support, Homelium are providing two hours of free respite care, giving family carers a chance to pause, recharge and remember that they’re not alone. Because for Homelium, caring for the carer is just as important as caring for their loved one.
Click the link to watch Doug’s testimonial https://fb.watch/DuGf6c7dYK/