I'm a fit and active early-60s female and I've cared for two elderly parents, now passed (one younger with Alzheimers, one older, very frail with vascular dementia). I love crafts, music, cats, dogs and other pets, reading, quiz shows, gardening and walking. In a long and varied career, I've worked as a PA for multinational companies, taught in primary schools and abroad and I've been self-employed as a designer for most of my life. My only son has just gone off to university (yes, I had him late!) and I'd love to spend some of my newly-found free time being a companion/cook/cleaner/dog walker/whatever to someone who needs it. I'd be happy to visit parks, shops or accompany to appointments or just to stay at home chatting and reminiscing, or shouting quiz answers at the TV. I'm happy to do light cleaning and gardening, laundry and cooking. I hold no formal qualifications particularly for elderly care, but I have counselling certificates and I'm happy talking to all kinds of people. I don't panic, I'm patient and I have a deep appreciation of everyone's need for respect and compassion. I love to laugh, it is the best therapy. I would love to be a high point in someone's day and to make their life a little bit brighter.