"I feel safe"

I moved from Lanarkshire to Ayrshire as my son moved and I was left alone. I live in Bield sheltered housing and I’m really happy. There is always someone on call and I have my cat living with me.

I have some difficulties at home as I can’t lift one arm because of wear and tear in my shoulder. I’m also diabetic and can’t feel my fingers or my feet. I’m not allowed to cut my toe nails so the podiatrist comes to do that. I’m always frightened I burn myself because I can’t feel and I’m never sure if I’ve got a grip on things.

I have carers who come morning and night. The carers are very good, they are so kind. It’s two girls who care for me and it’s a good service. One carer comes in the morning to wash me and get me dressed then at night the carer helps me undress. They also see to my tablets and make sure I take what I should. The carers notice if something isn’t right and report it to the doctor. I feel safe.

I get my meals at the sheltered housing in the dining room. At night they sometimes show films with a cup of tea and biscuits. I’ve met quite a lot of friends living there. The people in charge are good. It’s nice to sit down, get a meal and have a chat.