J is a 90‑year‑old woman living with advanced Parkinson’s disease, significantly reduced mobility, and a history of frequent falls. Following several hospital admissions, she moved into a residential care home for her safety. Her social worker referred her for Independent Advocacy as J was expressing a strong desire to “go back home,” and a DoLS authorisation was being considered to keep her safe in the care home.
J’s family were concerned about her wellbeing but wanted her wishes to be central to any decisions made.
Presenting Issues:
- J repeatedly stated she wanted to return home.
- Care staff believed this would be unsafe due to her mobility and fall risks.
- A DoLS assessment was being explored by the social worker.
- J needed support to understand the implications of each option and to have her voice heard in meetings.
Advocacy Intervention:
The advocate met with J on several occasions to understand what “going home” meant to her. Through these conversations, it became clear that her wish was to have:
- A sense of independence
- Familiar routines
- Emotional attachment to her home environment
Together, they explored what would be required for her to return home safely, including:
- 24‑hour care
- Equipment and home adaptations
- The impact on her wellbeing and safety
This allowed J to reflect on the realities of each option in a supported, non‑directed way.
The advocate attended review meetings with social services and care home staff to ensure J’s voice was central. When professionals began discussing matters about J rather than with her, the advocate paused the meeting and reminded the group of the importance of inclusive, person‑centred practice.
The advocate encouraged professionals to hold separate discussions outside the meeting if needed, so J was not excluded or spoken over. This helped re‑establish a respectful relationship where J was recognised as the key decision‑maker.
After several discussions and supported decision‑making sessions, J chose to remain in the residential care home. She explained that:
- She felt safer since moving in
- She valued the company
- She did not want to worry her family with further falls or hospital admissions
This decision was informed, voluntary, and respected by all professionals involved.
The care home agreed to personalise her room with furniture, bedding, and personal items from her former home. J has since begun engaging in activities again and feels more confident approaching staff when she has concerns.
Impact of Independent Advocacy
- J’s wishes were clearly understood and communicated.
- Meetings became more inclusive and person‑centred.
- J made her own decision rather than feeling pressured by professionals or family.
- Her living environment was adapted to reflect her identity and preferences.
- J reported feeling listened to, respected, and settled.
J’s Feedback
“I feel settled and listened to for the first time in ages. Thank you for helping me look at the risks and positives of going home and remaining in the care home.”
Learning Points
- Advocacy ensures that older adults with long-term health conditions need to remain central to decisions affecting their lives.
- Professionals may unintentionally slip into service‑centred discussions; advocacy helps rebalance power.
- Exploring the meaning behind a person’s stated wish can reveal deeper emotional needs.
- Supported decision‑making leads to outcomes that are both safe and genuinely person‑led.
To find out more about the Housing Advocacy Support Service, please visit our projects page.