My role as a live-in carer is to provide care, assistance and companionship to clients with a range of needs. Most clients I work with are people who have disabilities or age-related restrictions affecting their ability to carry out day to day in and around the house and also outside of their homes. 

 A typical day for me would be to assist a client out of bed in the morning, ensuring that they had a sufficient amount of rest and, in good spirits to get up and start their day. Depending on the clients needs, I would assist with personal care, hygiene and grooming needs. I’m also required to maintain effective communication with client, dignity confidentiality and privacy. I also understand how important it is to know and understand the client’s needs and to allow for privacy where appropriate Once the client is ready, I prepare or facilitate the preparation of their breakfast. To maintain a therapeutic environment, its always good to have meals at the same time with clients. 
During the day I would assist the client with administering medication, food preparation and drinks but also providing companionship. This could include going to the high street for errands, a café or staying in-doors. I also ensure that all times, I keep on top of household maintaining a safe, clean and hygienic environment for the client and also for myself to live in. In the evening I would I prepare and help the client to settle for the night, ensuring the client is warm and comfortable

I have been a live-in carer at Shannon over 9 months now. I love the fact that I provide an alternative option for elderly people as opposed to moving into a care home or with relatives. I feel that they really appreciate this because they are cared for in the comfort of their own home, in familiar surroundings and environment. I foster and develop a professional relationship in order to be able to deliver the care required based on their needs.

Due to complex needs of some of the clients that I have cared for, I believe It takes empathy and compassion to care for people in their own environment, to understand their point of view and needs.
At times it can be emotionally demanding, because an older adult with dementia and mobility difficulties, will need assistance to fulfil their daily activities of life or at times they need things repeating so that they understand the information being communicated, including my presence as carer in their home. However, the work is still incredibly rewarding as i know that I am making a difference in the community improving the quality of life of my client.

My first role in the Care was as at the age of 18, caring for a family member with dementia. This experience gave me the opportunity to develop an array of skills that I believe are critical when caring for people with complex needs. The experience led me to pursue a career in health care