Getting help to care for our relatives – what are the benefits?
Getting help to care for our relatives – what are the benefits?
Our parents mean so much to us and as they get older, we want to do everything we can to look after them. It can be hard to admit to ourselves when their health is getting worse.
If you’re looking after your parents, it can be so difficult to make the decision to introduce carers to help and support you. Choosing the right care can be daunting and it can feel like you’re letting your loved ones down at the very time when they need you the most.
What support is needed?
Making the first step to talk to someone about your parent’s care can be the hardest point.
Would a bit of help around the house help? Is it specialist support that’s needed? Could a few hours a day be enough or is a live-in carer required?
There’s a common misconception that if we need specialist care we need to live in a residential care home but this really isn’t the case. Staying in the comfort of our own homes really is good for the soul. Let’s face it there are not many of us who’d be happy to give up our homes that easily, with our lifetime of collection and artefacts that are so important to us, not to mention our beloved pets!
Sometimes a little help with the housework and daily chores is all that’s needed to maintain our independence. A little assistance with mealtimes or personal care may be all that’s needed to provide the confidence to stay at home for years to come.
Maintaining relationships is the top priority
If you’re caring for a loved one, keeping on top of the jobs can get in the way of the important things in life – the memories, the small conversations and the shared experiences. Watching a favourite TV programme or listening to music together can mean so much.
If someone else is making sure that the groceries have been bought and the bills have been paid, your time can be spent together, in a meaningful way just how it should be.
Dealing with an emergency situation
Although our health can deteriorate gradually, a fall or an accident can sometimes be the catalyst for families to seek support with caring for their loved ones.
In these circumstances, our tendency is to try and muddle through as a family – sharing the responsibilities and juggling things around. Our experience suggests that getting in professional care to provide personal and practical support can allow you to focus on the emotional side of rehabilitation and have those meaningful conversations that mean so much.
For more information on care options, whatever your circumstance, call Trudi or her team for a friendly no obligation chat on 01494917344.
Email info@ashridgehomecare.co.uk or visit the Ashridge Home Care website https://www.ashridgehomecare.co.uk
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