When Charlotte, a client living with advanced multiple sclerosis (MS), experienced developing health changes, her family faced significant concerns about her current care arrangements and her ability to remain safely and comfortably at home. Charlotte reached out to Cavendish Homecare to discuss a possible transition of her care, as her existing staff were struggling to manage her evolving needs. Previously, Charlotte’s complex care was successfully managed at home, but with her worsening condition, additional and highly skilled support was required to maintain her comfort and independence.
Our Client’s Story…
During the Covid pandemic the need for individuals to receive care within their home increased. Charlotte’s situation presented challenges related to severe pain management, significant mobility limitations and subsequent feelings of isolation. This called for comprehensive and empathetic care strategy. Her specific needs for pain control and assistance with activities of daily living were a task expertly managed by the Cavendish Homecare team.
Charlotte had a known long term diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, and her health had recently declined. Increased daily generalised pain made it much harder for her to move around, resulting in her spending most of her time either in bed or sat out in her chair. Charlotte’s primary wish was to receive the maximum amount of care and analgesia required to keep her pain free for as long as possible. Charlotte knew this would improve her mental health as she could remain optimistic about her future.
Charlotte was clear to doctors that she did not expect to live with prolonged pain – as this was having a very detrimental effect on her well-being and abilities. Her wish was to engage in the live style of her choice – and she knew that living well and without pain was key to achieving to her best outcomes. Charlotte firmly believed in taking a positive approach to her own care management, philosophically stating she “wanted more life in her years, not years in her life.”- this was evidenced further with her new care plan.
The Cavendish Approach…
The Cavendish Homecare team created a bespoke care plan that address Charlotte’s clinical needs and personal wishes, in agreement with Charlotte who understood that her care plan was an evolving live document that would be checked and updated as necessary – she was able to stay in control by sharing information for her care planning and subsequent risk assessments.
She enjoyed participating in this and knew that she could always contact the Cavendish Homecare office team to make amendments at any time. Charlotte’s daily routine started with her receiving her personal care whilst in bed. She did not exhibit any signs of pain, and her skin integrity was noted as excellent due the care received from Cavendish Homecare team, with no indication of pressure sores. Charlotte continued to use a catheter for urinary management, without any noted infections.
Cognitively, and with full capacity, Charlotte remained fully in charge of her personal affairs. For communication and social engagement, Charlotte used her tablet and phone to connect with friends and family, whilst also enjoying the companionship of her husband and daughter who would sit and chat with her.
The Outcome…
Charlotte’s case exemplifies the profound benefits of personalised home care for individuals facing complex conditions like multiple sclerosis. Despite the challenges posed by her advanced MS, including significant mobility limitations and the initial risk of pain and isolation, Charlotte’s care was successfully managed. Her clear directive to prioritise quality of life and effective pain management over mere longevity was central to her care plan.
Charlotte’s ability to stay connected with loved ones and her active participation in shaping her dynamic care plan underscore how tailored, empathetic home care can empower individuals to live with dignity, comfort, and peace of mind, even in the face of significant health challenges.
Disclaimer: For privacy and confidentiality reasons, the names and locations in this case study have been changed. The events and outcomes described are based on real situations, but identifying details have been altered.
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