 Life for Jane can be challenging and she relies on round the clock support to overcome her complex disabilities.
Home used to be a top floor flat, but Jane’s failing eyesight meant this became difficult to manage. Lifeways has supported Jane to move into a home of her own - a bungalow in South London - and since the move her life has been transformed because of a totally new person centred approach.
Jane’s cultural roots are hugely important to her and her Lifeways staff team have been very carefully recruited. As well as taking the trouble to understand Jane’s food likes and dislikes (which she is quick to express!) they are all native speakers of the Ghanaian ‘Twi’ language that Jane learned as a child; they use a range of communication aids, key words and phrases that Jane understands and these make a big difference to everyday tasks and activities.
The car’s a star
The high point of Jane’s week is when she gets to go out for a car trip; in fact, just sitting in the car is something she adores. Outings can be local, or sometimes further afield, maybe to the South Coast.
The key to success is planning, plus a degree of flexibility. This might mean having a ready supply of Jane’s preferred drinks and snacks ready to hand or being prepared for a change of plan if things don’t work out.
After a hearty walk, coffee and cake in the cafe at a local park is something else Jane enjoys, but if she changes her mind and wants some privacy, her support staff are ready to help her back into the car where she feels safe and relaxed. |
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