It’s not always easy to realise that you or a loved one needs a little extra support. Even approaching the topic in the first place can be challenging, especially if your loved one is concerned about losing some of their independence.
Making that call for help can take a lot of courage at first, but as many individuals have found, the answer doesn’t have to mean a loss of independence. If you’re recovering from injury, operation or illness, or have a long-standing medical condition, there are many options available for enabling you to live independently at home, with ease and dignity.
Additional support for the everyday tasks
There are many reasons why you might be looking into the prospect of care in the home. It could be because you need some help with everyday tasks such as keeping on top of the laundry and other housekeeping tasks, or maybe prompts to remember to take your medication.
Another important aspect to consider is your diet and weight. If you’re finding it hard to follow a regular meal time plan or notice that a loved one has lost weight as a result of struggling to keep up with their diet, this could be a sign that they need a little extra help.
Having the support from a fully-trained live-in carer ensures that you or someone you know can keep on top of the tasks that might be causing a few problems, with you directing them as you want to. Though they are always there to offer assistance, the support from a live-in carer should never cause you to lose any independence.
With a special focus on maintaining your independence and dignity at all times, your live-in carer will enable you to complete the tasks yourself. Rather than taking over, good care is all about being there to support and assist when needed.
Returning from hospital or residential care
After an operation, you’re bound to be anxious to get back to the comfortable surroundings of your home. There are sure to be a few nerves as well, however a live-in carer will be there to help you settle back into a routine you’re used to.
There are also the additional, ongoing care needs that you might require, and how much you’ll be able to do yourself to consider. This could be anything from assisting with mobility after a hip replacement or having someone to help you get out of bed first thing in the morning, as well as supporting with personal care.
Though welcoming someone else into your home can be a significant step to take, a live-in carer will be there to support you through the recovery period. And for those approaching their final days, live-in care also means that they spend these moments in comfort, at home, with their friends and family close by.
Peace of mind for when you’re away
Caring for a loved one takes a lot of practical and emotional commitment. You may feel a natural duty or desire to help them, but you also need to consider your own needs. And you don’t need to feel guilty doing so.
Burnout can become a real possibility if you’re finding it hard to cope with supporting a friend or family member on top of work and other commitments. Sometimes, we just need a few days to recharge and recover.
Whether it’s a weekend or a fortnight away, live-in respite care for a short period lets you have some time to look after yourself, while still ensuring that your relative or friend can maintain the care they need.
Short-term care can also give you an understanding of what having an ongoing live-in carer would be like, in case you need more permanent support, further down the line.
Support for a progressive condition
With conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer’s , symptoms tend to worsen over time. There may be difficulties with memory or mobility as well as needing to be reminded about personal care and hygiene.
These changes can be gradual or can happen within a short space of time, which can be difficult to cope with or manage. Because a live-in carer is on hand every day, they will be able to observe and react to any changes in your loved one’s needs and instigate further support if it’s needed.
Offering a fully managed service means that we can alter the care that is needed seamlessly and efficiently. As a result, you can carry on being a close family with us ensuring that you all have the support you need.
Looking at your funding options
The cost of live-in care is sure to cross your mind. And it’s not always easy to make sense of the financial implications care can bring.
Everybody is different and each family we support has a unique situation. This is why the cost of our care can vary. However, depending on your circumstances, you might be eligible for specific grants or benefits. For example, if you are aged 65 or over and need regular help, you may be eligible for Attendance Allowance, receiving up to £85.60 a week.
There are several other options available to you, but it’s always important to speak to an advisor to get an idea of which option best suits your family.
Accepting that you or someone you love needs additional assistance takes time. And it’s not a decision you should rush into. However, our friendly support team is here to help you understand the care your loved one needs. Drop us a line if you’d like to find out more.
