Choosing Home Care Over Care Homes for Your Elderly Loved Ones
There comes a time in many families when a decision has to be made about the best way to care for elderly relatives. With the increasing number of elderly people, it’s no surprise that elderly care options are also expanding. But is Home Care the best option for you or your loved one?
The benefits of a familiar environment
One of the main advantages of opting for home care is the familiarity it offers. Aging can sometimes lead to cognitive decline, and for those experiencing memory loss, being in familiar surroundings can be incredibly comforting and beneficial. The smell of their garden, the family photos on the walls, and their own bed can make a world of difference in their daily lives.
Home care means personalised care
Home care services generally offer a more personalised approach to care. The caregiver can focus on the unique needs and preferences of your loved one. Whether it’s preparing their favourite meals, helping with medication, or even taking them on short walks, home care professionals are there to cater specifically to the needs of your elderly family member.
At Lead care we always take time to get to know the personal needs of each of our clients. Not just their specific care needs, but also their personal preferences and interests – we care about everything, from how you take your tea, to whether you like knitting or going to the Garden Centre. We’re hear to offer support that helps our clients to really continue to live a full life.
Allowing continued Independence
As individuals age, there’s often a strong desire to maintain independence. Home care services enable seniors to continue living independently in their own home. They can still make choices about their daily activities, meals, and leisure, which has a positive impact on their sense of dignity and self-worth.
Getting Families involved
With home care, family members can be more involved in the care of their elderly relatives. This is often not as easy when the loved one is in a care home. Regular family visits, combined with the support of home care services, create a more cohesive care plan and ensure that the senior feels supported and loved.
Cost-Effective care
In many cases, home care can be more cost-effective than a care home. Care homes often include a whole range of services and facilities that your loved one may not necessarily use. With home care, you are paying specifically for the services your family member needs, which can make it a more economical choice.
Really Flexible Care
At the outset, you may only need a few hours support each day. Later, you may need full-time live-in care. Home care can adapt as the situation changes, the services can be easily adjusted to suit the changing needs of your loved one. As their health and abilities change, the care plan can be updated without the need for moving to a different facility or location and we would always try to ensure that you retain the same Carers, even as things change.
Reduced Risk of Infections
In a care home, there are many residents living in close proximity. This can sometimes increase the risk of infections. On the other hand, at home, the environment is controlled and there is less exposure to germs, which is particularly important in times of outbreaks or pandemics. Equally, in a Care Home setting, if any residents have a serious infection, the Home will often have no choice but to close its doors to visitors, meaning less contact with your loved one.
Peace of Mind
Finally, knowing that your loved one is in their own home, receiving specialised care and still being part of the family’s daily life, can offer you immense peace of mind. You’ll know that they are in a place where they feel comfortable and happy.
Enhanced Quality of Life
Ultimately, the choice of home care can significantly enhance the quality of life for elderly individuals. The freedom to stick to their routines, engage in hobbies, and receive visitors without restrictions promotes an overall sense of well-being and happiness.
If you would like to find out more about how our Home Care services could help your loved-one, please do contact us. We offer Home Care, Respite care and Live-in Care in the Cambridgeshire area, and are able to support our clients with a wide variety of care needs