How To Find Help and Support at Home
As we grow older, we inevitably start thinking about where we are going to live and the care that we may need in the future. With a wide range of options to choose from, this can be a daunting process.
Whether you choose to stay in your own home, or move somewhere else, everybody should have access to the help and support that they need.
Even with the desire of independence, many older people still require assistance around the home. Local councils and charities offer many types of support. We’ve gathered them all together to help you decide what’s best for you.
Home Care
Homecare, sometimes known as domiciliary care offers different levels of supportwithout long-term commitment.This flexible system is very popular and helps over 950,000 people in the UK every year. It involves a paid carer coming to a person’s house as often as is needed, from once a week to more than once a day. They can support people with activities such as:
Getting in and out of bed
Bathing and washing
Preparing meals
Cleaning
Homecare is a very popular resource that helps over 950,000 people in the UK every year.
How Do I Receive Home Care?
First you must inform your local authority that you require assistance. After assessing your care needs, they will decide if you are eligible for homecare services or a home carer. If you are accepted for support, the council will provide you with a written care plan.
If you are not successful in your search for homecare, you will be given advice and information on any other options that may be suitable for you. Continue to look around for other care options if you feel you need to.
How Much Does Home CareCost?
Prices vary for individuals depending on their needs. The local council will work out how much you can afford to pay, to ensure that you are left with a reasonable level of income. Some councils place an upper weekly limit on the amount you have to pay, so be sure to contact them to find out more information.
If you are struggling to afford care, there are benefits available. This includes the Attendance Allowance and Personal Independence Payments. These systems can help you meet the cost of homecare and ease your financial worries. More information is available on the NHS website.
Home Help
Home help is slightly different from homecare as it offers more general assistance with domestic tasks. Home help staff are unable to assist with personal care such as dressing or bathing but will help with jobs such as:
Cleaning
Gardening
Washing
Laundry
Shopping
This is a very flexible service that can be tailored to an individual’s personal needs; it offers a perfect solution for people who only need a small amount of support. No matter what you require, all home helps are experienced and fully trained to ensure the best care possible.
Unfortunately, home help is not provided through local councils. To find out more about this opportunity, get in touch with charities such as AgeUK and The Red Crossto see what help they can offer you.
How Can We Help?
Deciding to stay at home can leave people feeling frightened and unprepared. Here at Andway, we have a range of products that will help you adapt your home into the safest environment possible.
Whether you require help moving, bathing or just general assistance, get in touch and find out how we can help you today.
