Lucy's Story

At Right at Home, we pride ourselves on providing personalised, compassionate care tailored to the unique needs and backgrounds of each client. Lucy's story is a shining example of how our caregivers' diverse skills and backgrounds can significantly impact our clients' well-being. This case study highlights Lucy’s journey with us and underscores the importance of employing caregivers who can connect with clients on a deeper, more personal level.

Meet Lucy

Lucy, born Shiu Ying in Aberdeen, Hong Kong, is a vibrant and resilient woman who has lived an extraordinary life. Fluent in Cantonese, and English, Lucy has navigated numerous cultural and personal transitions. After meeting her husband, Malcolm, who served in the British army, they moved to England and settled in Porchester, where Lucy has lived in the same house for over 50 years. Lucy and Malcolm adopted their daughter, Susan, who remains a central figure in Lucy's life.

The Right at Home Approach

Right at Home began caring for Lucy on August 25, 2023, starting with three-morning visits per week. Recognising Lucy's need for companionship, we extended our visits to include two evening sessions. Family plays a crucial role in Lucy's life; her sister-in-law, nephew, and daughter all live nearby and visit regularly.

The Impact of a Culturally Aligned Caregiver

Recently, we introduced Anna, a new caregiver fluent in seven languages, including Cantonese. This linguistic connection has significantly lifted Lucy's spirits, allowing her to converse comfortably in her native language. Anna's presence has not only provided Lucy with companionship but also reignited her enthusiasm and engagement with life. For instance, Anna’s thoughtful gesture of writing a Chinese New Year card in Cantonese brought immense joy to Lucy, highlighting the deep emotional impact of culturally sensitive care.

Lucy’s Interests and Activities

Lucy enjoys reminiscing about her active past, including working as a barmaid, playing Mahjong, and visiting casinos with her best friend, affectionately known as "50p Margaret." Despite preferring to stay in bed due to feeling cold, Lucy loves interacting with our caregivers, listening to their stories, and sharing laughs. Anna's involvement has encouraged Lucy to revisit some of her favorite activities, such as playing Mahjong with her family.

Conclusion

Lucy’s case exemplifies the profound difference that culturally aligned caregivers can make in the lives of our clients. By employing caregivers like Anna, who can communicate in Lucy's first language and understand her cultural background, we help our clients feel more connected, valued, and understood. This approach not only enhances their quality of life but also fosters a sense of familiarity and comfort, enabling them to thrive despite their health challenges.

At Right at Home, we are committed to embracing diversity within our caregiving team to better serve our clients' diverse needs. Lucy's flourishing spirit is a testament to the power of personalised, culturally sensitive care, and we look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.