Going a cut above is all in a day’s work!

Getting a haircut is often a chance for a little self-care. In the case of Stanley and his wife Joan, it’s a treat that sees the self-care shared.

You see, Stanley has Alzheimer’s and Joan is his full time carer so when Southcare saw a need to provide self-care to the couple during a respite visit, it had double the benefits.

Southcare provides respite care for Joan twice a week. The respite gives Joan three hours of alone time, which she describes as “essential” and allows Stanley to leave the house with the security of a familiar and trained carer.

“We’ve been married 59 years and I have been Stanley’s primary carer for almost six years now,” Joan said.

“It’s a job built on love, but it can be draining as I am essentially providing 24-hour care. To have two Community Support Workers visit me twice a week for a little break is wonderful!”

This month, Community Support Worker Jade escorted Stanley to the barber to get a haircut and beard shave before a family wedding.

“I had been asking Stanley to get a haircut for weeks but wasn’t having any luck getting him to leave the house,” Joan said.

“As soon as Jade suggested it, he was so eager and obliging!” she laughed.

The respite is 90 minutes which was enough time for Stanley to enjoy some pampering out of the house and for Joan to do the same at home.

“I enjoyed the calm and a simple cuppa by myself,” Joan said. “I felt renewed when Stanley returned, plus he looked great! “Jade really delivered a double dose of magic that day!

“The family wedding was lovely and we both looked the part!”

Want to know more?  Read about our Southcare Stars Maria, Pearl and Trish or join our online community by following us on Facebook for ongoing updates or sign up to receive alerts direct to your inbox.