Transforming Lives – Martin’s journey to improved well-being with Hopscotch Homecare

Category – Elderly Care | Mental Health | Learning Disability Support

How tailored support and compassionate care enhanced the quality of life for an elderly French man living alone

Situation

Martin is a 68-year-old French man who has lived in the UK for over 40 years. He lives alone in a council flat managed by a housing association. His living conditions were poor, unhygienic, and depressing when he was first met. Martin has major health issues that then required multiple operations and he is on the Autistic spectrum.

Challenge

Martin faced significant isolation and communication difficulties due to Autism, his limited English proficiency and a speech impediment. His cautious approach to expenses and reluctance to trust caregivers added complexity to his care. Additionally, Martin had issues with his flat, necessitating a temporary move to a hotel, which required adjustments to his smoking habits and routines.

Support Provided

To support Martin effectively, Hopscotch Homecare needed to –

• Address his personal care, meal preparation, shopping, domestic tasks, medication administration, mobility supervision and companionship.
• Overcome communication barriers by repeating instructions, reducing background noise, and providing a whiteboard for Martin to use, so that he can write down what he needs easily.
• Build trust with Martin to assist with his daily needs and financial transactions.
• Managed Martin’s temporary relocation to a hotel, ensuring he adhered to non-smoking rules and maintained his routine.
• Facilitate Martin’s potential reconnection with his French family and explore social opportunities through a French cultural association.

Impact

1. Since the start of his care package, Martin’s life has improved significantly. The Hopscotch team put in huge effort in –
   1. enhancing communication
   2. addressing Martin’s living conditions and
   3. providing consistent care 

This resulted in Martin becoming more confident, supported and appreciative of the support he receives. 

2. The temporary hotel arrangement was managed effectively, preventing eviction.
3. Martin now feels comfortable going out with his Care Workers and feels happy entrusting them with shopping tasks.
4. Martin is considering reconnecting with his family and is looking forward to participating in a French cultural association, further reducing his isolation.