A Resident’s Story: From Mobility Challenges To Independence

Before joining our care home, 78 year old GH had been struggling with declining mobility for some time. An active and independent man, he had always enjoyed spending his days going for walks, working on his bike and keeping busy in the garden. As his mobility challenges increased and he became reliant on a walking aid, many of the activities he loved became difficult, and eventually impossible, to do alone. Simple pleasures such as tending to the garden or heading outside independently were no longer within easy reach. When GH moved into the home, he was facing the reality of losing much of the independence and freedom that had always been a big part of who he was.

From the moment GH joined Etive House Care Home, the team took a genuinely person-centred approach. Rather than focusing solely on his care needs, they spent time getting to know him as an individual, learning about his interests, what brought him happiness and what he felt he had lost. It quickly became clear that helping GH regain his independence and reconnect with the activities he loved was important to his wellbeing.

With this in mind, the staff at Etive House Care Home arranged for a physiotherapist to support him and worked closely with GH to encourage daily exercises. The team remained committed throughout, offering ongoing encouragement, reassurance and support every step of the way.

The results have been remarkable. Thanks to his hard work and the dedication of the team around him, GH no longer requires a walking aid. Today, he regularly helps care for the garden alongside another resident and has also enjoyed getting involved with painting. Perhaps most importantly, GH has regained the confidence to maintain his independence beyond the home. He regularly catches the bus into town, helping him stay connected to his community and continue doing the things that matter to him.

GH's journey is a wonderful example of Etive House's commitment to person-centred care. By taking the time to understand the individual behind the care needs and by providing the right support at the right time, the team helped GH achieve something that once felt out of reach: a return to the activities, independence and sense of purpose that make him who he is.

At our care home in Oban, we believe great care is about more than meeting daily needs. It is about understanding each person, supporting their goals and helping our residents continue living a fulfilling life. If you would like to find out more about our approach to care or arrange a visit, get in touch with our friendly team today. We would be delighted to show you how we support residents to live well, stay connected and enjoy the things that matter most to them.