When everyday life became more difficult

Margaret had recently been diagnosed with polymyalgia and had experienced a number of falls. During 2023, she was admitted to hospital five times. A fall while on holiday in Spain led to another three-day hospital stay.

Her daughter, who lived in London, was increasingly concerned about how Margaret would manage safely at home and contacted Fond after they returned from Spain.

Starting with what Margaret actually needed

Margaret was initially reluctant to accept care. She valued her independence and did not want someone taking over her life. Fond started small, with two one-hour visits each week.

The team looked beyond household tasks to understand her health and daily life. Support included:

• Medication support and help attending medical appointments
• Coordinating follow-up care, physiotherapy and occupational therapy
• Arranging rails and adaptations at home
• Monitoring wellbeing and handing ongoing support to the wider care team

Bringing the right people together

The aim was to identify the small things putting Margaret's independence at risk and bring the right support around her. Fond worked with her family and other healthcare professionals, rather than trying to provide every solution themselves.