At 89 years of age, Sid Bowden had lost the ability to walk and needed a new home. A little Extra Care from us and incredibly Sid was back on his feet and his daughter Margaret was over the moon.
This has to be one of our most astounding stories. Sid was living in sheltered housing, but his changing condition meant he required more support. We facilitated a move into Extra Care accommodation at purpose built Corsers Court, Perton.
Gail Lewis his Extra Care Manager discovered, “Sid had lived in his bedsit for four years. He had difficulty walking and regularly fell during the night. His anxious daughter was often called upon to help him out and after two years he lost the ability to walk altogether.”
The move to Corsers Court meant Margaret wouldn’t be as close if anything went wrong. But after seeing his flat and the care on offer they were both greatly reassured. However, in his first few hours with us, we realised Sid’s mobility was going to be a real issue.
Gail learnt that Sid had simply stopped walking because he was afraid of falling, not because of any medical condition.
A quick call to the Falls Prevention Team set the ball rolling. With physiotherapy Sid was standing within a month. His carers walked him every day and his confidence grew. He started coming to lunch and making new friends.
Gail proudly adds, “After years of having no independence, it’s finally coming. He’s always smiling now and often tells me, ‘I’m in heaven.’”
Sid’s improved no end and is even starting to learn how to drive an electric wheelchair so he can really get about.
Margaret enthuses, “I didn’t want my dad to move, but I really liked what I saw at Corsers Court. They gave me110% peace of mind. I don’t work now when I come to visit my dad, I just enjoy real quality time with him.”
When asked if she’d recommend Extra Care, she says, “Absolutely. Dad’s got a new lease of life. He has company when he wants it, great food and he’s well looked after. He’s really happy.”