As our loved ones age, there comes a point where we must consider future options such as private home care. Most people prefer to age in their homes for as long as possible. While residential care is often a required choice, there are many individuals who would greatly benefit from utilising private home care.
Private home care allows a person to live as independently as possible in their own living space. It is a blessing for families, and clinical research has revealed that people stay healthier and recover more quickly from illness while remaining in their homes. This is why private home care is a much-needed service.
Meanwhile, outside of giving a person the option to age in place, there are many other benefits that come with private home care. Here are six to remember if you are faced with a care option decision in years to come.
Familiarity
Keeping loved ones in a space that they are familiar with is essential to well-being. This is particularly beneficial for those suffering from progressive conditions such as dementia.
Some clients will have lived in the same place for years. They have collected items and memories over time. This type of care enables them to remain in a place of comfort, allows them to sleep in their own bed and spend time in their favourite place.
Familiarity can help form a sense of routine, and in turn, create an essential feeling of calm for the client and the wider family.
Companionship
Private home care creates a strong bond between carer and client. Through daily conversation and company, feelings of loneliness are prevented.
This connection also gives peace of mind to family members who may worry about their loved one’s emotional health.
Personalised care
Private home care provides a client with personalised care around the clock. Immediately and effectively, a plan will be put in place that fits around the individual’s needs.
Whether it be medication or food, all requirements are provided for with the greatest of attention.
One-to-one care guarantees private attention. Unlike being in residential care, there is no waiting for services.
Flexibility
Private home care can be tailored to meet your specific needs. It can be arranged on a temporary or long-term basis and can provide for a number of requirements. These include:
- Housework
- Planning and preparing meals
- Getting in and out of bed each day
- Accompanying trips out
- Companionship
- Disability care
- Palliative care
- Respite care
- Dementia care
Independence
Clients can remain independent for as long as is physically possible because home carers will help in the areas that are needed. This means clients can control many areas of their life.
Private home care allows individuals to remain active and fulfilled which promotes a feeling of empowerment.
Better health outcomes
Clients are more likely to have better health outcomes in private home care settings. Avoiding hospitalisation is a key priority as hospital acquired infections are an ever increasing risk.
Staying at home reduces the risk of such illnesses significantly.
Family-centred care
When a loved one is in need of care, it can be an exceptionally difficult time for a family. However, private home care helps to alleviate much of the stress and worry that comes with more traditional care methods.
Families feel comfort in the knowledge that their loved ones are being properly cared for in their own home. Not only this, family members feel they have more control in such a situation and can be more involved in the day to day care.
End-of-life care at home
Nearing the end of life or being diagnosed with a life-limiting illness is an extremely difficult time for individuals and their families.
However, private home care means you do not have to move away to receive much-needed care.
Such a service means a person can spend their last weeks, months or even years in the comfort of their own home. And this is a reassuring thought for both individuals and families.
Cost effective
Worried about finances? Private home care can be notably more cost effective when compared to residential care. Meanwhile, up to 41% in tax relief can be claimed by the person paying the care bill.
If you have any questions about home care services, please contact Hibernia Home Care on (01) 524 0242 or email [email protected]
