A Day in the Life of a Carer

A Day in the Life of a Carer

There are a lot of misconceptions about what an in-home carer actually does. We thought it would be useful to those considering a life of a carer for one of our carers to run through what a typical day for them looks like. As ever, if you have any questions simply email us at ([email protected]) or call our helpful team on 02381 780 708.

7am

I arrive at Mr Jacobs* home and let myself in knowing he will still be asleep. The first thing I do is put the kettle on so we can both have a cuppa. I then go upstairs and gently wake Mr Jacobs. He instantly gives me a huge grin, clearly happy to see me. We chat about our families whilst I help him out of bed. He sits in his comfy chair whilst I make his bed and we continue our chat. I find out his granddaughter had her baby 2 days ago, a healthy little girl weighing 8 pounds. He is hoping to meet her in the next few days. I help him take his morning pills washed down with what he always calls “the best Cuppa on the south coast”.

8am

I then start the shower for him, apply the nonslip mat and head downstairs to make him some breakfast. He calls down when he’s finished and I go up to help him get dressed. He can do most of this himself but his arthritis means he struggles with his buttons. We then head downstairs where his breakfast is waiting for him. He is a big fan of porridge, which he says reminds him of growing up in the North. We then talk about his plans for the day and if he needs anything from the shop but he is planning to take a short walk to grab some essentials.

I clear his plates and give the kitchen a quick tidy for him. He always tells me not to worry about this as he is an independent old gent, but I like helping him out. Next comes the favourite part of my visit to Mr Jacobs where we just sit and talk whilst I help with a few little chores. He has lived quite a life and so different from my own. He is unintentionally funny and often has me cracking up with the capers of his younger years.

10:30am

I leave Mr Jacobs sat in his chair watching one of his old war films. My next visit is a short drive down the road to Mr and Mrs Evans*. This is one of the highlights of my week. They are the sweetest couple who celebrated 50 years together last summer. I let myself in and find them sitting together on the sofa watching TV together. I sit down with them and have a quick chat about their week. They have had a few relatives pop round and had a trip out to the shops which they seemed to really enjoy. Like most married couples they tend to argue but in a very sweet, old-fashioned way which is a little funny to watch. “Sarah! She’s having a go at me again” Mr Evans exclaims whilst I am tidying their bedroom. I go downstairs and diffuse the situation and we all end up laughing about it.

11:30am

My main task is to make them lunch and ensure they take their medication. Occasionally, I have to help them shower or do general washing but they are both very proud so I know I must do this with the upmost discretion. I make a simple chicken salad which Mr Evans insists comes with a round of bread and butter. I sit with them whilst they eat and they ask about my family, they love to hear how my children are getting on in school as their Grandchildren live quite a way away. I show them some photos on my phone before cleaning away their plates. I make sure they are settled for the afternoon, and they have taken all of their medication.

1pm

I am back in my car now and I make a quick call to Mr Bailey* who is another one of my clients, just to check in and see if he needs anything as I am driving past his house on my way home. He says he’s fine and looks forward to seeing me tomorrow.

I get home just after 1:30pm. That is my workday over so now I treat myself to a nice lunch and then get ready to pick up my children from school. I love my job, the clients, and the flexibility I have so I can still be there for my family. I would recommend a career in caring to anyone that loves to chat, flexible hours and actually doing something that you can see really makes a difference.

If you would like to know more about becoming a carer, give us a call today on 02381 780 708

*Name changed for privacy reasons