Understanding What Really Matters: Alex & Jean’s Story
Before joining Westerton Care Home, Jean and her husband Alex were living together in their own home, sharing the routines and comfort of married life. When Jean was diagnosed with dementia, Alex naturally stepped into the role of her carer, supporting her day to day with dedication and love. Over time, as Jean’s condition progressed, life at home became increasingly challenging, and her family began to recognise that she needed the reassurance and safety of 24-hour professional care.
After much thought, the decision was made for Jean to move into Westerton Care Home in January 2024, while Alex remained at home. Although this brought a degree of relief from the pressures of caring for her, Alex quickly found that he deeply missed Jean. Regular visits to Westerton were important to him, but they could not replace the comfort of living together.
A few months later, Alex experienced a stroke, which led to a progression in his own dementia. At that point, the decision for him to move into Westerton in May 2024 became the natural next step, ensuring the couple could once again be close and supported together.
Feeling Right at Home at Westerton
When Alex first arrived, he stayed in a separate bedroom within the same unit as Jean so they could remain near one another. However, it soon became clear that both Jean and Alex found their greatest comfort in being side by side. They longed for the familiarity of shared space and the reassurance of each other’s presence. When Alex began sleeping at the bottom of Jean’s bed, the team at Westerton recognised how important it was to respond with sensitivity and care.
Working closely with the family, the team quickly arranged for Jean and Alex to move into a larger room where they could share the same space. They were also provided with a room that could be used as a sitting area, allowing them both the independence and comfort of a homely environment. When we showed them their new rooms, both Jean and Alex were overjoyed. The change made a valuable difference, helping them feel settled and allowing them to rest more peacefully.
Since living at Westerton, Jean and Alex have become a well-loved part of daily life in our home. They take part in a wide range of activities and enjoy the social atmosphere created by both staff and fellow residents. Their care is tailored individually, while always recognising the reassurance they draw from being together.
Jean regularly attends fitness sessions, enjoying the movement and routine, while Alex has developed a strong interest in arts and crafts. He spends time creating thoughtful pieces and often shares them with staff and other residents, bringing small moments of joy throughout the home. They also took part in a sporting event last year, where they proudly won medals for Westerton, an achievement they still speak about fondly.
Supporting Every Aspect of Wellbeing
Life at Westerton has supported both Jean and Alex in rediscovering a sense of ease and companionship. Their relationship now feels like that of a married couple again, rather than one shaped by caring responsibilities. We are proud to have created an environment where they can simply enjoy each other’s company and live with dignity, comfort and purpose.
Their physical health has also improved since moving in. Alongside their active involvement in daily activities, they particularly enjoy mealtimes, sharing good food and conversation with staff and residents. This sense of routine and enjoyment has helped them maintain stable weight and overall wellbeing, while giving them something to look forward to each day.
Jean and Alex often share how happy they are at Westerton and speak highly of the team who support them. Their family have also expressed their gratitude, finding reassurance in knowing the couple are not only well cared for, but able to remain together. For them, this has brought real peace of mind and the comfort of knowing everything is as it should be.
Discover Our Bearsden Care Home
Here at Westerton Care Home in East Dunbartonshire, we take great pride in improving the lives of people like Alex and Jean. Our holistic, personalised approach ensures each resident is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. The best way to get a real sense of what life at our care home is like is to arrange a home tour. Our friendly team can’t wait to meet you and discuss how we can support your family.
