What happens when you call Kingsway Care during a home care crisis? Read this real-life example of how we provided urgent care support to help a couple dealing with the husband's severe mobility decline due to arthritis.
Immediate Action, Guidance & Support
At Kingsway Care, we understand that a home care crisis can arise at any time, which is why we're always ready to respond swiftly to calls for help. Whether it's a current client or someone who simply needs guidance, our dedicated team provides immediate urgent home care support and advice.
This real-life example showcases how we quickly stepped in to assist a family in crisis in Brighton & Hove. Helping them navigate the healthcare system and secure the necessary care and adaptations for their home.
Wife's Urgent Call for Home Care
Step 1: The Initial Enquiry (Sunday)
A wife contacted Kingsway Care urgently explaining her husband's sudden and severe mobility decline over the past week due to advanced arthritis. He had fallen while showering, leading both of them to end up on the floor when his wife couldn't hold him up. They were unsure how to move forward, and the wife felt unsupported by their GP.
Step 2: Immediate Response
Despite it being Sunday, we responded immediately, acknowledging the urgency of their situation. We arranged a home visit for the following morning to provide urgent care and support.
Step 3: Home Assessment (Monday Morning)
We visited on Monday morning to assess the couple's home and discuss their current challenges. It became clear that the husband’s mobility issues were posing a significant risk to both him and his wife. They were struggling to navigate the healthcare system by themselves. As experts, we were happy to advise them.
Step 4: Guidance and Advice
During the visit, we advised them on available home equipment to make daily tasks safer. We also explained that carers are unable to perform heavy lifting, which meant they needed an Occupational Therapy (OT) assessment before care could be arranged. Additionally, we suggested a medication review as the husband’s falls could be linked to underlying health conditions rather than just mobility issues.
Step 5: Advocacy with the GP
Recognising the couple’s frustration with their GP’s lack of response, we took direct action. After multiple unsuccessful calls, we visited their GP surgery in person to highlight the husband’s deteriorating condition and the risks posed. This led to a commitment from the GP to conduct a home visit the next day and provide the necessary urgent care support.
Vicky Haines, MD, Kingsway Care, personally visited the GP surgery and didn't leave until they confirmed they would visit the couple the next day.
Step 6: Follow-Up and Resolution (Tuesday–Thursday)
The wife updated us on the progress after our intervention:
- Tuesday: The GP visited and made an urgent OT referral.
- Wednesday: The OT assessed their home and suggested equipment adaptations. A community nurse also visited to review medications and complete a health assessment.
- Thursday: Riser/recliner chairs were delivered, and they made plans to convert their bathroom into a wet room.
Successful Outcome
The couple is relieved and grateful for our swift urgent care support. Although they have not yet accepted carers, they now have the necessary equipment and support to remain independent at home. And they know who to call when they do decide it's time to start home care.
Support During A Care Crisis
This case highlights our commitment to responding quickly, advocating for clients, and ensuring families receive the support they need. Kingsway Care takes the time to navigate the complex care system on behalf of families and provide the best home care solutions for each individual. Everyone deserves first class home care support.
When to Start Home CareClient Team
