In the tranquil setting of a Cornish care home, optometrist Sam Westoby met Eric, a spirited 79-year-old former farmer, and his daughter, Mandy. It was a visit that showcased how compassionate eye care can help empower the elderly, even those facing the challenges of dementia and reduced mobility.
Eric has always been a man deeply rooted in his farming past, and though life has slowed down, his spirit remains strong. As his eyesight began to fail, Mandy turned to OutsideClinic for support.
-
My first word is gratitude. I'm so grateful for Sam's approach and that visit because it highlighted things to me and gave my dad a sense of empowerment.
Mandy Julian
Eric's daughter
Throughout the visit, Sam made sure that Eric was at the centre of every decision, involving him fully in his care and ensuring his dignity was upheld at every step. Whether it was going through the eye test or carefully helping Eric sign paperwork, Mandy described Sam’s respectful approach, saying,
-
Sam's approach was so respectful and patient-centred; it really made my dad feel valued throughout the entire process. He never rushed or pressured us. It was like he truly understood my dad's pace. I was just so grateful for the experience. It was clear that Eric’s care wasn’t just about medical procedures; it was about empowering him and keeping his spirit alive.
Mandy Julian
Eric's daughter
One of Eric’s dreams is to attend the Cheltenham horse racing event for his 80th birthday. Mandy shared, 'He wants to go to Cheltenham next year because it's his 80th and it's the 100th year of the Cheltenham Cup. He’s always been very horsey.' For Mandy, it’s important to nurture this dream. Seeing Sam treat her father with such care and respect reminded Mandy of the emotional depth of the experience.
"It made me realise it’s not just about eye health," Mandy said. "It’s about my dad’s well-being, his dignity, and his right to continue dreaming and experiencing life, despite everything."
The visit also highlighted the impact of high-quality care at home. Mandy was amazed at the technology Sam brought to the visit.
'I was amazed at how Sam showed us things I thought we'd need a hospital for. He was able to say and explain certain things about my dad's eye health that I wasn't expecting,' she said. Sam’s ability to explain the advanced technology he used, and to share detailed images of Eric’s eyes, left Mandy impressed. It was more than she expected from a home visit — a service that went far beyond just an eye test.
Eric’s story is one of resilience. A lovable character, he’s always approached life with a glass-half-full attitude, and his optimism continues to shine. As Mandy recalled, 'I asked my dad if he saw the glass as half-empty or half-full, and without hesitation, he said, "Half full." That’s just who he is.' With OutsideClinic’s help, Eric’s journey became a reminder of the power of empathetic, person-centred care, delivered in the comfort of his own home.
Why join OutsideClinic
Are you an optometrist looking to make a genuine difference in people’s lives? At OutsideClinic, we offer a unique opportunity to step beyond the traditional clinical setting and bring life-changing eye care directly into the homes of those who need it most. Imagine working free from the confines of a high street practice, having the time to spend with each patient, building deep and meaningful relationships, and truly making an impact.
Optometrist Sam Westoby shares,
-
I genuinely feel I'm improving my patients' quality of life. I love that I'm with the patient throughout the whole journey during the visit, where we can build rapport. It ensures the patient gets exactly what they need, and I can give them a tailor-made experience. Being in the patient's home, I can see exactly what they do during the day and make better recommendations on glasses/products that will directly improve their quality of life. I've met so many lovely patients and I can't wait to meet many more.
Sam Westoby
Optometrist
OutsideClinic has provided thousands of similar visits across the country, ensuring older people receive the eye care they deserve without leaving their familiar surroundings. With optometrists like Sam, we bring more than just medical care; we bring understanding, respect, and the chance for people like Eric to keep their dreams alive.
If you’re inspired by stories like Eric’s and want to be part of a team that’s transforming lives through compassionate care, explore career opportunities with OutsideClinic. Together, we can ensure that everyone, regardless of age or circumstance, gets the respect, care, and attention they deserve.
Join us, and be part of a movement that redefines what it means to provide excellent eye care. Take the next step in your career and make a difference — one patient at a time.
Hear from some of our patients
