Peter’s Wish to Stay at Home Until the End
Told by his daughter Hannah
Peter received full time live in care from Retons Care between July 2023 and March 2024
When Peter was diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy, his family faced the difficult reality that he could no longer manage safely on his own. His daughter Hannah was determined to honour his wish to stay in the home he had shared with his late wife. With support from a carefully matched team at Retons Care, Peter received round the clock care that allowed him to remain at home, surrounded by familiar comforts and memories, until his peaceful passing in March 2024. Below, Hannah shares their story.
A Diagnosis That Changed Everything
My dad Peter was 74 when he was diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy. None of us had heard of it before. It started with small things. He was unsteady on his feet and forgetting names. Then his speech became slurred. Within a year, he could barely move without help and needed support to manage day to day.
Peter had always been active. He loved books, jazz and the sea. He had built his own sailing boat and never lost his sense of curiosity. After my mum passed away, he lived alone in the home they had shared for over twenty years. That home meant everything to him.
When the hospital suggested he might need residential care, he looked at me and said, I just want to stay here. Please help me do that.
Choosing Retons Care
We started with domiciliary care, but it quickly became clear that Dad needed more consistent support. He was frightened at night and needed help with his mobility, medication and breathing equipment.
I found Retons Care online. From the very first phone call, I felt a sense of calm. The team understood what we were facing and offered reassurance without rushing. A care coordinator named Sarah spent time learning about my dad’s condition, his history and what was most important to him.
She asked about his routine, his personality, even the little things like what music he liked and where he had grown up. I told her about his childhood in Cape Town and how much he missed the ocean. I mentioned that he valued quiet, thoughtful company. Every detail mattered to her.
The Right Match Made All the Difference
A few days later, Sarah introduced us to two live in care workers, Miriam and Faith. They would take turns staying with Dad for several weeks at a time. Both had experience with neurological conditions and showed so much warmth and patience from the very beginning.
Faith also had South African roots. When we told Dad, he smiled in a way I hadn’t seen in a while. They spoke about Cape Town, old traditions, and shared memories of the places he had loved.
At first, Dad was nervous about having someone live in his home. But Miriam sat with him over a cup of tea before even unpacking her bag. She listened, told him about her own life, and made no assumptions. After a few days, he was asking when she would be back again.
Life with Live-in Care
Miriam and Faith supported Dad with every part of daily life. They helped him wash, dress, manage his medication and prepare meals he could eat safely. They monitored his breathing overnight and used specialised equipment to keep him comfortable.
But they also brought him joy. On good days, they helped him out into the garden. They played his favourite jazz records and read aloud from books he used to love. They encouraged him to record messages for friends and family. They helped him feel like himself again.
When he was scared, they stayed beside him. When he was low, they sat quietly and listened. They became his companions, not just his carers.
A Lifeline for the Family
For me, it meant I could stop being the person constantly worrying and organising. I could be his daughter again. We watched films together. We looked through old photo albums. We just sat and talked.
My aunt, who lives abroad, said she felt more connected knowing Dad had trusted people with him every day. My children, who had been unsure how to be around him, started visiting more again. The whole house felt more peaceful.
A Goodbye That Felt Right
Peter passed away in March 2024. Faith was with him in the early morning hours. He was in his favourite chair by the window, music playing softly, with someone holding his hand.
That is exactly how he wanted to go. At home, surrounded by the life he built.
“Peter let us into his world with such grace. We were there to support him through every stage, and it was a privilege. His kindness stayed with us.”
— Faith, live in care worker
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Sarah J., Client’s Daughter
Retons Care has been a lifesaver for our family. The caregivers are compassionate, professional, and go the extra mile to make my father feel comfortable and cared for.
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Michael R., Client's Son
The team at Retons Care truly understands our needs. Their tailored approach and constant communication gave me peace of mind knowing my mother is in safe hands.
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Emma L., Client
From the very first call, Retons Care made me feel supported. Their caregivers are not only skilled but also genuinely kind, bringing warmth and positivity into my home.
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David H., Client’s Son
Retons Care provided outstanding support for my father after his surgery. Their carers were attentive, patient, and truly made a difference to his recovery.
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Linda H., Family Member
We were nervous about arranging care, but the team at Retons made everything so easy and reassuring. Their communication and kindness have been exceptional.
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Fatima K., Client
As someone who values independence, I was worried about accepting care but Retons made it feel empowering. They listened and respected my routine.
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James T., Client’s Brother
What sets Retons apart is the personal touch. The carers quickly felt like part of the family, and my sister is happier and more comfortable than we’ve seen in years.
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Anita S., Client's Daughter
The flexibility and affordability were what drew us in, but the genuine care and professionalism have been the reason we’ve stayed. Absolutely recommend Retons.
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Claire P., Client
I’ve had live-in care from Retons for over a year now, and I wouldn’t go anywhere else. The team is consistent, compassionate, and always treats me with respect.
