Every fortnight, Claudia picks up Danny and takes him shopping. Struggling with arthritis, Danny, who’s 81, relies on Claudia to push the trolley and handle the heavy lifting while he checks off items on his list. And when they’ve finished, like clockwork, they stop for a coffee, muffin and chat.

While Claudia has only been caring for Danny and his wife Margaret for a few months, it feels like years.

“It just fills my joy cup,” says Claudia, a Support Worker with Wesley Home Care.

A fulfilling role

Emel, who also supports Danny and his wife twice a week, feels the same.

“I had a banter with them straight away,” Emel smiles. “Every time I’m with them, it’s so lovely and positive, especially as we crack jokes and have a laugh.”

Danny echoes the sentiment. Trust doesn’t always come easily to Danny, especially when it comes to people who are caring for Margaret, who’s 78 and lives with Alzheimer’s. But with Emel and Claudia, Danny says it’s easy.

“I really feel comfortable with them, and I make sure they feel comfortable with me and my wife as well. And they all like coming in to see us,” Danny says.

Claudia adds, “He often tells me that he enjoys our catch-ups and looks forward to seeing me.”

Consistency and care

Having cared for Danny and Margaret for three years, Emel says they’ve built a strong bond. On Tuesdays, Emel stays with Margaret while Danny takes a break. Without fail, Emel and Margaret take a walk before Emel makes Margaret lunch. And on Fridays, Emel cleans their house.

“Margaret always seems happy. It just flows when we’re together. It’s really nice being around them,” Emel says.

While Emel has made a difference in Danny and Margaret’s lives, she’s surprised by how much they’ve enriched her life.

“Danny’s so caring, so supportive. He doesn’t make you feel like you’re just a support worker. They have so much respect and they’re so happy to have me.”

Gratefully received support

Danny says without Wesley Home Care they couldn’t continue to live independently.

“The amount of help it provides just gives them the confidence to stay at home,” Emel says.

Claudia adds, “I can assist with those more challenging tasks. It also helps Danny get out in the community and have independence.”

Danny is deeply grateful for the support and says he couldn’t imagine life without it. “I’ve never thought about changing providers. They’ve always been good.”