Care that makes a real difference

 Ian's Story

Born in Middlesbrough in 1940, Ian’s life has been filled with curiosity, craftsmanship, and connection. A talented engineer, he earned a scholarship to Barnard Castle School and later graduated from Durham University with a BSc in Mechanical Engineering. 

His career spanned decades of innovation from designing aircraft for the RAF with De Havilland, to leading major national projects as Chief Mechanical and Computer Engineer at the National Grid. 

Outside of work, Ian’s passion has always been the canals. He played a key role in the restoration of the Droitwich Canal and spent many years exploring Britain’s waterways aboard his much-loved narrowboat. 

Today, Ian lives in Hockley Heath with his wife, Mrs. S, and their Cavapoo, Teddy, who brings daily joy and emotional comfort as they navigate life with Alzheimer’s together

Understanding His Needs

When Mrs. S first reached out to us,  she was managing all of Ian’s daily care herself. While Mrs. S was devoted to keeping his routine stable, the emotional and physicalstrain was slowly growing. Ian’s reluctance to accept outside help is something many families living with dementia experience. We  recognised that successful care here would depend on trust, familiarity, and compassion, easing both Ian and Mrs. S into a supportive rhythm that felt natural and reassuring.

Info on: Complex care - Dementia

Dementia care is about protecting the person’s sense of self. Narbir Virk, Registered Care Manager 

Life with Bluebird Care

We created a person-centred care plan tailored around Ian’s lifestyle, preferences and his emotional wellbeing. 

Before Ian’s care began, we arranged a relaxed meet and greet so that he and Mrs. S could get to know their carer and start building trust and familiarity from the outset. 

To ensure continuity and reduce any potential confusion or anxiety, we introduced a consistent carer who now forms part of Ian’s regular routine. Together, they enjoy community support sessions, focused on connection, conversation and enjoyment rather than nurse-led care. This has given Ian the chance to engage socially while still maintaining his comfort and confidence. 

With the right balance of routine, empathy, and consistency, we’ve seen Ian’ s confidence and joy return. Narbir Virk, Registered Care Manager

These visits soon became a favourite part of Ian’s week relaxing outings to Amies Café, Hatton Locks Café, Ambleside, or Wave Café, where he could enjoy a coffee, watch the world go by and chat to familiar faces. 

Meanwhile, Mrs. S had time to rest and recharge, all the while knowing Ian was happy, safe and socially engaged.

Through this gentle, consistent approach, Ian began to welcome his carer’s visits and look forward to his outings. What started as cautious acceptance grew into real companionship. 

• Care acceptance achieved: Ian now enjoys the structure and reassurance his visits bring.
• Emotional wellbeing improved: Familiar faces and favourite places have boosted his mood and confidence. 
• Quality of life enhanced: Regular outings keep him active and socially connected. 
• Respite for Mrs. S: She’s able to rest, pursue her own interests, and enjoy time with Ian without constant pressure.
  

The relationship between Ian, his carer, and Mrs. S, shows how person-centred care can make a difference, not just for the individual, but for the whole family. Narbir Virk, Registered Care Manager

Together, these small, important changes have created a rhythm that helps sustains both his independence and joy - the key heart of what we aim for in our dementia care.

Complex Care: Dementia Ian's story Download: Complex Care - case study