Case Study: “Dorothy’s Day” – Making One Final Wish a Reality

Background

Dot was a 90-year-old woman in Wakefiel, west yorkshire  receiving palliative care in a care home. Frail and with complex postural needs, she had been confined to bed, as there was no suitable seating available to support her safely or comfortably out of bed.

With Christmas approaching, Dot had one final wish: to spend Christmas Day out in a chair, surrounded by her large family—over 50 loved ones—for what she knew would be her last festive celebration.

The Challenge

Dot’s condition meant that conventional seating was unsafe and inappropriate. She was at risk of pressure injury, poor positioning, and discomfort if not adequately supported. The care team were keen to help, but lacked the equipment and expertise needed to fulfil her request.

With only a week’s notice, her family reached out to us, determined to give her the Christmas she dreamed of.

How OT4Life Helped

Understanding the time sensitivity and emotional importance of Dot’s wish, OT4Life responded immediately. We completed a specialist seating assessment, reviewing Dot’s posture, mobility, skin integrity, and comfort needs.

Working closely with our trusted specialist seating partners, we:

●     Sourced a bespoke, supportive specialist chair that accommodated her postural and pressure-relief needs

●     Coordinated urgent delivery and setup in time for Christmas

●     Provided care staff with guidance on safe handling and positioning

●     Ensured Dot could sit upright safely and comfortably for extended periods

The Outcome

On Christmas Day, Dot was able to be safely seated in the lounge, surrounded by more than 50 family members. Laughter, music, and shared memories filled the room as they celebrated what they lovingly named “Dorothy’s Day.”

Dot passed away peacefully not long after, but her family expressed deep gratitude that she was able to spend such a meaningful day up, engaged, and surrounded by love.

In Her Family’s Words

“Mum had one wish—to sit with us all one more time. You made it happen. We can’t express how much it meant to see her smiling and present on Christmas Day. It gave us all a memory we’ll treasure forever.”

Dots family, Wakefield