Muscular dystrophy is an inherited condition that gradually causes muscle weakness. It is a progressive disease, meaning that it begins by targeting one group of muscles before affecting muscles in the body more widely. While there is no known cure for muscular dystrophy, with the right treatment and care in place, symptoms can be managed […]
Author: Paul Austin
My passion for health and care was ignited by a deeply personal experience when a close friend of mine was involved in a serious road traffic accident with a bus. This experience served as a powerful inspiration for me to explore a career in healthcare as a Physiotherapist.
After earning my B.Sc.(hons) degree in Physiotherapy, I became a full member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) and earned State Recognised Chartered Physiotherapist (SRP) status. I then ventured into the National Health Service (NHS), which I value so much, to embark on my journey into healthcare.
In this new capacity as a healthcare professional, I navigated through a spectrum of NHS rotations, encompassing respiratory medicine, the critical landscape of intensive care, diverse medical specialities, and the nuanced field of medicine tailored for older adults. These experiences profoundly shaped my understanding of the multifaceted needs within our healthcare system.
Seeking to broaden my scope, I transitioned beyond clinical practice to contribute professionally to the NHS Institute of Innovation and Improvement. Here, my role involved facilitating collaborations between local charities and NHS services, fostering a more interconnected healthcare ecosystem. It included working with local and strategic NHS bodies to learn and make improvements within.
My time in the NHS came to an end when I saw the many improvements that were required in the Social Care sector. I had a new mission. I wanted to help those people receiving care in their own homes - a place not visited often enough by existing NHS Services.
For the last 13 years, I have held key roles in the social care sector, serving previously as an approved Registered Manager for home care services and now as a director in two social care organisations specialising in Live in Care. Additionally, my history of involvement as a trustee in a charity and other social ventures, including as a member of a local government body, underscores my dedication to community welfare. People use the word passionate lightly quite often, but I am driven to improve the lives of others.
I am still proud to maintain my membership with the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (MCSP), underscoring my steadfast dedication to professional excellence.
Virtual Reality and Dementia
How is VR Used to Help Dementia? Research recently carried out by the University of Kent has found that virtual reality technology could help to improve the lives of those living with dementia. The study of virtual reality and dementia suggests that by recalling memories from the past, levels of aggression are reduced and interactions […]
What is Independence for Older People
What Is Independence for Older People and Why Does It Matter? Independence is often something we take for granted – until we reach an older age. The challenges that arise as part of the aging process mean that elderly people often worry about losing the independence they’re used to. But what is independence for older […]
Home Adaptions for Elderly People
As we get older, it can begin to feel a little harder than usual to comfortably move around our own homes. Home adaptations for elderly people make it easier and safer to carry out everyday tasks, with some of the smallest changes making the biggest differences. From widening doorways to grab rails for stairs, we’ve […]
What is Young Onset Dementia?
Young onset dementia, also referred to as early onset dementia, is defined as dementia diagnosed under the age of 65. According to Dementia UK, there are currently an estimated 42,000 people living with young onset dementia, even though the disease is one typically associated with old age. Signs of young onset dementia Because dementia is […]
Social Activities for the Elderly: Staying Active Over 65
We’re constantly being told that staying active is the key to maintaining good health – and it’s never too late to start. From cancer to heart and circulatory diseases, physical activity can help prevent and improve a range of health conditions, meaning that keeping active in old age is crucial to remaining healthy and independent. […]
Customer Satisfaction Survey 2019
98.4% of customers are satisfied with care from IP Live in Care In order to ensure we are continually delivering the highest level of quality care. We ask all our customers to complete a customer satisfaction survey so that we can identify any areas for improvement. Thank you to all our customers who completed the […]
Community Care Live 2019
We’re delighted to be exhibiting at the Community Care Live show at the Business Design Centre in London on 15th/16th October. The show provides 2 days of CPD training and learning and covers a wide range of topics across children and family social work, adult social care and social work management. Why visit the Community […]
Keep Pets at Home with you with a Live in Carer
Growing older can sometimes be a lonely time, especially when close friends pass away or families aren’t able to visit as much as they would like to. Some find it difficult to leave the house and participate in social activities as they get older, however there is one source of comfort that benefits our elderly […]
How to avoid doorstep scams
According to AGE UK, 85% of the victims of doorstep scams are aged 65 over. Doorstep scammers ofter target older people and they usually have the gift of the gab and will try to befriend your loved one with a convincing story. Doorstep scams can be very distressing especially for older people and the impact […]
Explaining Dementia to a Child
Having a friend or family member who is living with dementia is difficult, and everyone will have their own way of dealing with those diagnosed with it. Coping with a dementia diagnosis or finding out someone close to you has dementia is distressing – even for the most thick-skinned individuals. Explaining dementia to a child […]
Dementia Diagnosis, what next?
If your loved one has been clinically diagnosed with Dementia, there are lots of available resources to support your relative and your family at this difficult time. We’ll explain what happens after a Dementia diagnosis and how you can access the care that they need, along with some information you’ll need to think about a […]
What is sundowner’s syndrome?
Sundowner’s syndrome, or sundowning, is a type of confusion that can happen in the late afternoon and evening. It can affect people living with early on-set Alzheimer’s or Dementia, but can affect the elderly recovering from surgery in hospitals or in unfamiliar environments. Sunset is typically a time where people go through the transition after […]
Holiday guidance for those with limited mobility or a disability
If you or a loved one suffer from limited mobility or a disability, that shouldn’t mean you have to stay at home. It is a proven fact that seeing, experiencing, and learning new things is good for our physical and mental wellbeing. At Independent People Homecare, we understand holidays can be a little daunting if […]
What Are The Signs of a Stroke?
A stroke (sometimes referred to as a brain “attack”), occurs when the blood flow to your brain stops and the brain cells in the area begin to crash. Treatment is needed immediately to ensure you lower your chances of brain damage, disability or even death, which is why knowing the warning signs of a stroke […]
The Stroke Assembly 2019
Are you supporting a stroke survivor? Then come along to the UK Stroke Assembly at the Radisson Blu Hotel at East Midlands Airport on Monday 1st and Tuesday 2nd July. It’s a perfect opportunity to bring together stroke survivors and carers to talk about the things that matter to them. Providing a forum to share […]
The Alzheimer’s Show 2019
Diagnosed with Dementia? If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with Dementia then don’t forget to come along to the Alzheimer’s show on Friday 7th and Sat 8th June at the Olympia Exhibition centre in London. Get your questions answered by experienced carers and specialist professionals, in a friendly and relaxed environment. […]