Making a Difference in Inverclyde & North Ayrshire: Why Local Families Value Our Service

We work with a wide range of clients, from older adults, to those living with long-term conditions, recovering from an injury, or managing a disability. Whatever the circumstances, our focus is on providing care that is personalised, consistent, and truly life-enhancing.

Real Feedback from a Local Family

Recently, a family member shared their experience of the care their Dad receives from one of our Care Professionals, Kevin.

This feedback reflects the high standard of care we aim to deliver across Inverclyde and North Ayrshire. It highlights that great care is not just about practical support, but also about companionship, reassurance, and helping people feel valued in their own homes.

So firstly, can you tell us a little bit about your Dad and what kind of care he receives from Home Instead?

My dad had a stroke a few years back, and just recently we found out he’s got vascular dementia because of it. He’s on loads of medication, but he was getting really muddled, forgetting to take them and mixing them all up. Thankfully, we’ve sorted that now with short visits from the Council. They pop in, give him a prompt, and make sure he gets his meds.

At first, the big goal was just to get him out and about. His mobility’s gone downhill, so driving is a no-go, and he can’t manage a bus on his own. That’s where Home Instead has been brilliant, taking him shopping, helping him keep up friendships. He’s never been the type to join clubs or anything, even when he was younger, so this has been a real lifeline.

But things have changed again. His mobility is worse now, and he needs a lot more care at home. We’ve had to think about cleaning the house, and now it’s more about getting him washed, dressed, and looking presentable before he heads out. Plus, the shopping trips are still important, but we know now it’s got to be easy stuff he can heat up in the microwave, no cooking with oil or anything complicated. That was a big worry for us.

And what was life like for you before Home Instead?

Whenever we popped in to see Dad, the place was a bit untidy, clothes lying around, stuff everywhere, and the kitchen definitely needed a good clean. That was a big worry because he loves cooking, and we wanted to make sure he was doing it in a clean, safe space.
He was pretty isolated too, so now he actually looks forward to visits because he knows it means he’s getting out and about. It’s made such a difference to him.

What made you choose home instead?

It was actually my best friend who told me about Home Instead. She couldn’t recommend them enough because they can tailor everything to suit what you need. At first, we just wanted companionship for Dad, someone to spend time with him. Then it moved on to a bit of help with housekeeping and shopping, and now, of course, it’s more about his care needs too.
And honestly, Kevin has been amazing. He’s taken Dad to his eye appointments, sorted podiatry visits, and even arranged a few other things we were struggling to fit in. All of that makes such a difference because we work full-time, and it just takes so much pressure off us as a family. It’s been a huge help.

What changes have you noticed in your Dad’s wellbeing, mood and independence since starting care?

Dad really looks forward to getting out now. He can’t always remember names, but he never forgets Kevin. Honestly, the match between them is perfect. Kevin is like the yin to Dad’s yang.
Dad used to be quite short-tempered when he was younger, but Kevin has this calm, caring nature that just balances everything out. They work so well together. And the best part? If Kevin says something, Dad will do it, no arguments! If I say the same thing, he feels like I’m lecturing him. So having Kevin there just makes life so much easier for all of us.

And what does it mean to your family to have extra support?

Honestly, it’s such a relief now, we can actually go on holiday without stressing. If anything pops up, we just reach out to Home Instead. Doesn’t matter if it’s an email or a quick call, they always get back to me straight away. My sister and I try not to be away at the same time, just so someone’s around, but honestly, Home Instead makes it so easy. If Dad has appointments, they work it all in and coordinate everything perfectly. It just runs smoothly and takes so much pressure off us.
And Kevin, he is amazing! Dad mentioned his shoulder was sore after a fall, and Kevin got him to the hospital right away. When I asked Dad to go, he flat-out refused, but Kevin managed it no problem. We’re never quite sure if Dad’s actually fallen because his stories don’t always add up, but anyway, we’re waiting on a physio appointment now.
But back to Home Instead, you guys are brilliant. You juggle things around when emergencies pop up, keep Kevin with Dad so there’s a familiar face, and honestly, that makes all the difference.

Can you share a moment or a story that really stands out to you about the care your Dad has received?

Oh, absolutely! Kevin was a total star, he had Dad all ready for my wedding. I came downstairs thinking, “I hope he’s sorted,” and there he was, looking lovely, clean, and groomed. He even had on the black shirt and red tie he wanted! Kevin had taken him out to pick something to wear because, honestly, Dad’s wardrobe is full of suits that don’t fit anymore. Kevin went through them all with him, and when nothing worked, they just popped out and got a pair of trousers that fit perfectly.
It wasn’t a big wedding, but honestly, it took such a weight off me and my sister not having to rush around getting him ready. Seeing him so smartly dressed was such a lovely surprise. And he managed to walk me down the aisle. That meant the world to me. It was extra special too because Mum and Dad got married in that same registry office.

And how would you describe the care professionals that come in to support your Dad?

Kevin’s just brilliant. he honestly knows my Dad like he’s part of the family. He knows the house inside out, where everything is, and what needs doing. Little things make such a big difference, like fixing the record player. One of the shelves had fallen and we couldn’t get it back on, so Kevin sorted it and even moved the record player higher so Dad could use the speakers properly. Dad listens to music all the time, so getting that working again was huge for him. It’s those tiny things that really matter.

And what would you say to another family member who’s thinking about getting home care for their loved ones?

Most definitely, go for it! Kevin really knows my Dad, and they’ve got such a great relationship. Honestly, it’s made such a difference for our family.

In just a few words. How would you describe your experience with home?

10 out of 10, honestly, I mean it! Anytime we’ve had a concern, you’ve sorted it straight away and put our minds at ease.

If Home Instead can help you or a loved one the way we have helped Jackie and her family, please give us a call for a friendly chat.