To illustrate the importance of the quality of relationships between the persons receiving care and the person providing care; the roles of both persons and primary care involvements are equally significant. The indication presented in this essay will serve to establish why the quality of the relationship affects the quality of the care given. The evidence is based on a case study introduced in the K101, block 1 ‘Who Cares?’ book published by The Open University and an interactive DVD also published by The Open University and other useful resources are referenced at the end of the essay. This essay will look at the case study of Ann and Angus’ relationships with each other; the skills required for the role; specialised care necessary for individual needs and the involvement and relationship of the home carer.
Firstly, a brief insight on the individuals mentioned in this essay, Ann, who is the stepdaughter and Angus is the stepfather who suffers from Parkinson’s disease. Ann has been caring for her stepfather for many years and the relationship they have between them from the carer’s side and the person receiving care seemed comfortable and acceptable but unfortunately it has put a strain on Ann and her family and social life (K101, block 1, Unit 1 and DVD).
The relationship was not only between the carer and the person receiving care but also other family members involved and in Ann and Angus’ case, they lived together in the same house, with Ann’s husband, Bob and their daughter, Zoe. Ann didn’t seem to be coping well as Angus’ health was deteriorating as of her own health and relationship with her family, Ann seemed reluctant to admit she was a carer for Angus, she was unsure about receiving outside help, for example, from a care agency.
It would seem more appropriate for individuals who need care to stay in their own home and feel more comfortable with their own surroundings and personal belongings rather than in a home with the feeling of unfamiliarity; with no home comforts and different staff attending to their daily needs. This could be quite confusing and unsettling for Angus; therefore as Ann got increasingly apprehensive, she pursued help from the Social Services Department. Angus was not keen on this arrangement at first as he felt unwanted and that Ann would eventually send him into a residential home, but after Ann explained he realised that as Ann needed assistance to care for him.
A home carer called Yetunde was employed by the social services and attended and cared for Angus’ daily needs, an hour in the morning and an hour in the afternoon. For elderly people, receiving care in their own home has become increasingly important; carers support independent living for many people receiving care and are fundamental to their quality of life.
It could be fair to say that more people who require care are remaining in their own homes, the position of the home carer has become even more important as the...
