When someone receives a dementia diagnosis, it can be an unsettling, upsetting, and challenging time, not only for them, but also for their close family and friends. It can change a person’s life and affect the way they spend their days.

Surrounding the person with the diagnosis, is usually close family, friends and loved ones who also have their lives turned upside down. It’s a perspective that totally differs from the person with a diagnosis and one that isn’t usually spoken about.

This case study explores the experience of Cathy, whose husband of 50 years, John, was diagnosed with dementia and moved into St George’s Court Care Home in Cambridge. We will follow Cathy’s journey as she transitioned from caring for John at home to him living in a care home.

When Cathy could no longer care for John at home, she and her family began looking into care options. It was a difficult time as they adjusted to John’s diagnosis, but Cathy was determined to find a caring, comfortable home for him. As she researched local care homes, Cathy felt guilty about not being able to care for her husband herself and worried about how he would adjust to a new environment. She was concerned that his unique personality and needs might not be fully appreciated by others. However, recognising these feelings as normal, Cathy focused on ensuring John’s new home would be safe, supportive, and collaborative; somewhere that truly felt like ‘home’ to him.

Cathy was new to the world of care homes and had only preconceived notions based on internet searches. Determined to see the reality, she visited care homes to experience what life was like inside them. This approach helped her trust her instincts, and she put her energy into ensuring John’s new home would be safe, supportive and collaboratively work alongside her and John, to ensure he would continue to live a fulfilled life. Cathy said, “I instantly knew if the care home would be right for my husband. It was a gut feeling I got as soon as I walked in.”

When Cathy was referred to St George’s Court Care Home, she checked its CQC rating and saw it was rated as ‘Inadequate’, which made her feel anxious. However, with limited availability and an immediate vacancy, she decided to visit. On arrival, she felt comfort and warmth, unlike other care homes. She observed the team actively engaging with residents and noted their friendly interactions.

Meeting Home Manager Jayne further eased Cathy’s concerns. Jayne was open, honest, and transparent about the inspection rating, reassuring Cathy of the numerous improvements had been made since her appointment. Jayne’s philosophy of “Never leave (your visit) with a problem – come and talk to me!” truly resonated with Cathy, giving her confidence that John would be loved, cared for, and respected at St George’s Court. Jayne even asked Cathy for feedback, which she appreciated, as no other care home had done that.

Cathy faced a significant decision, knowing it would shape the future for her husband of 50 years, so she knew she had to get it right. With what she had seen, heard, and observed at St George’s Court, Cathy decided this would be the best place for her husband, and shortly after the process started, John moved into his new home.

After a short time living at St George’s Court, Cathy’s decision to choose this home was reaffirmed through the service she received, giving her the confidence that she had made the right decision and eased the initial feelings of guilt she had.

Although there were some small concerns and questions Cathy had throughout John’s care, Cathy found her queries were promptly answered and actioned by a team who truly listened, Jayne’s door was always open and overall, it was a very positive experience for both Cathy and John.

Cathy’s advice to people who are looking into care options for themselves, or a loved one is,