Abacare helps Barbara keep her best friend at home

BARBARA O’Sullivan from Caersws has been able to stay with her four-legged canine friend Joe and receive the care she needs at home thanks to a care provider in the area (August, 2017).

Abacare carers can visit service user’s homes and administer care, allowing them to remain in the comfort of their own homes and have their belongings nearby including beloved pets.

Sam Evans, Registered Manager at the award-winning Abacare, which has offices in Newtown, Powys, said: “We are big advocates of elderly people being able to stay in their own homes and we’re able to provide carers who can visit their house and provide the care they need so people needn’t be unnecessarily stressed about having to move into a home and let go of their animals.

“Pets can play a huge role in their owner’s health and quality of life as they get older, as it is said they can help to reduce stress, lower blood pressure and are great for increasing social and physical activity. Pets also help reduce depression and can help prevent loneliness.

“If our service users have dogs, and are mobile, then we encourage them to walk them regularly, as it’s a great way for them to get up and out of the house, as well as being good for the dog too. They may even be able to interact with other dog walkers on their journey.

“Cats make fantastic pets too as they are low-maintenance. Stroking a cat can have a calming and soothing effect, decreasing stress and anxiety levels.

“Simply having and caring for a pet helps to stimulate a person’s mind, which is great for the elderly. It can help them focus on something other than physical/health problems and the negativity surrounding growing older. In some cases pets can even help people with memory loss interact and access memories from years ago.”

Abacare’s carers can help with basic pet needs such as dog walking and feeding if necessary and if stipulated in a service users’ care requirements.

Barbara said: “I am extremely grateful to be able to have carers come to the house and provide the care that I need as it means I have been able to stay in my own home and keep Joe, who is a Jack Russell.

“Having the carers walk him for me gives me peace of mind that he is still getting the exercise he needs. I am very thankful for all the help I receive from the carers, not just when it comes to my care, but Joe’s too.”