Our Stories

Minnie's Story

Real life examples of how we help people

About Minnie

Minnie, 73, lives alone in a bungalow and has had Osteoarthritis for the past 15 years. She had a knee replacement 12 months ago but was struggling to get around the home and finding it hard to get out of her chair. Minnie wants to remain in her home as long as possible and doesn't want her daughter to worry about her. She was finding it hard to make food and drink in the kitchen because standing up for long enough was difficult.

Solution: Safe+Well Occupational Therapist Home Visit

Minnie and her daughter contacted Safe+Well and decide to pay for an Occupational Therapist (OT) visit Minnie at home. The OT spent an hour at Minnie's property with her and her daughter discussing the difficulties she was having and observing Minnie in her home environment.

Minnie received a copy of the OT report which suggested daily living aids she may find useful in the home including a perching stool in the kitchen and chair raisers to make her chair higher. Minnie's report also advised on her using her walking stick indoors not just outdoors. Minnie's daughter bought the daily living aids that the OT suggested and after a couple of weeks the OT rang to check how Minnie was getting on.

How did Safe+Well help?

Minnie was able to get around the house much more easily and safely. She can now spend the time making her meals. She says:

"I can take my time now making lunch. I would just have a packet of crisps and a cuppa soup before because I just couldn't stand long enough to make anything decent. I always thought using my stick indoors was giving in, but the OT explained by using it as a support I would be less likely to trip and feel less exhausted when I got to where I was going, and they were right! My daughter has said she doesn't worry quite as much now and I haven't missed her calling once since my chair is easier to get out of. I wish I had had an OT visit at home before now instead of struggling on, it is amazing how such small things can make such a difference".

Interested in an OT home visit? click here