"The care we provided has changed a lot since I started work. For the first 20 odd years I was a home helper, where we just cleaned, shopped and worked for the client. The system then changed about 12 years ago and I became a domiciliary care assistant.

This led to a much more personal working environment, which means that clients can now remain in their own homes rather than going into a nursing home. By attending to their personal needs, they can keep their independence and continue to live in their community.

What we did for each client was different depending on what they needed help with. When we visited clients in the morning we would help them to wash and get dressed, supervise their medication and occasionally helped by preparing their food. We only did what they couldn't do, and many clients enjoyed washing the dishes, even though they perhaps couldn't manage to prepare their own food. I used to love walking into their home and being greeted with a smile and a cheery face (well, most of the time!).

We also visited in the evenings, which meant helping to prepare for bed. I personally didn't really like leaving them, and having to leave them locked in their home, even though they were left with a personal alarm should they need any help during the night. I always worried whether I had remembered to turn everything off and make sure it was all safe.

The work was hard and emotional at times, and you certainly needed a sense of humour to be able to do it. It was nice to know that the children of most of the clients felt reassured that you were there, and they were very greatful.

I do miss my work, the involvement, the company of my work colleagues, and seeing the clients but I certainly don't miss getting up at 6.30 in the morning! Many of my clients have told me to call by and I'm sure I'll be keeping in contact with most of them.

Article written by Buddug Jones.