A Duck Out of Water: Mum, dementia and care home life

I’m a duck out of water.’

The words that sprang from Mum's lips sent shivers through me, as I sat with her in the lounge of her new care home. Little did I know, she’d feel this way for years to come.

Care home life works well for some; for others, it can be nothing short of traumatic.

Read my account of my mother’s dementia and our experience of the complexities of the care system. Heart-warming, but often heart-breaking, this is our story of how we navigated care home life together.

David Sheard, Professor of Emotional Intelligence in Care, York St John University

A powerful love story … one daughter’s steadfast refusal to accept that care homes always know best. A quest that proves people living with dementia, families and care home staff all can thrive with purpose and connection. A must-read for anyone wanting to know how care homes can BE HOME where feelings really matter most.

Prof June Andrews LLB FRCN, Author of 'Dementia the One Stop Guide'

David Sheard, Professor of Emotional Intelligence in Care, York St John University

Every carer is different and every person with dementia is different. This true story shows that it is vital for families to understand dementia, how care homes work, and how the care system works if they want to get the right care.

Debra L, Northumberland

Brilliant and heartfelt … I couldn’t put it down. I felt I was with them every step of the way. I laughed at the joy and tender moments shared and cried at the frustrations faced throughout. This book has made a difference to me.

Wendy Ross, Retired GP

Debra L, Northumberland

Such a moving account of Rita’s move into a care home after developing dementia. Helen describes the frustration of dealing with a care system in which many staff are kind but her Mum’s need for a meaningful life often goes unfulfilled. Valuable advice for both families and staff.

A Duck Out of Water: Mum, dementia and care home life

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David Sheard, Professor of Emotional Intelligence in Care, York St John University

David Sheard, Professor of Emotional Intelligence in Care, York St John University

David Sheard, Professor of Emotional Intelligence in Care, York St John University

Prof June Andrews LLB FRCN, Author of 'Dementia the One Stop Guide'

David Sheard, Professor of Emotional Intelligence in Care, York St John University

David Sheard, Professor of Emotional Intelligence in Care, York St John University

Debra L, Northumberland

Debra L, Northumberland

Debra L, Northumberland

Wendy Ross, Retired GP

Debra L, Northumberland

Debra L, Northumberland

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