Does a relative of yours need help managing their home, but you have concerns about looking into home care for them?
Many family members want to be able to offer their relatives the right level of care but may be struggling to do so. The obvious answer is to invest in home care, but due to myths that exist online, many families are wary about doing so.
This article aims to explore myths around home care to help you separate reality from fiction.
Myth 1 – Only Older People Need Home Care
It is more common for people who are in their advanced years to need care. However, this is not the case; many younger people may require assistance with daily chores, as well as managing their own personal hygiene.
If you are looking for help with elderly care, look online for a provider, such as Alinahomecare.com. Or, if you think a younger person that you know needs help, contact social services in your local area.
Myth 2 – Home Care Is Expensive
In the UK, some home care services will come at a cost. However, you can opt for help from your local council, as there are usually funding options available. If you have health insurance or your loved one has health insurance, be sure to check if home care is covered before making any payments.
Myth 3 – Home Care Is Limited
Home care is not limited- it is specialised! You may get some home care groups who specialise in areas such as cleaning and cooking, whereas others are targeted more towards stroke recovery and Alzheimer’s. This is why it is important to have yourself or your loved one undertake a health assessment to get an idea of what is needed before looking into home care.
Myth 4 – Home Carers Aren’t Caring
You can find Nurse Ratched-like characters in every line of care.
However, they rarely last long and, in actuality, the most dedicated and caring staff end up becoming the carers that your relative will work with. If, of course, you notice an attitude issue with your loved one’s carer, you have the right to ask for a new carer, as well as report them to the provider.
Myth 5 – Family Members Can Provide The Right Level of Care
This is not only untrue, but it is also unfair to expect younger family members to look after older members of their families if they have special needs. Yes, a lot of families will want to look after older people in their family units, but suppose you have a family member who has advanced Alzheimer’s; how are you going to care for them, as well as your own family, your home, your job and so on?
Also, someone in the average home will rarely have all of the medical training needed to oversee the care of a person who has complex care needs, which can lead to medical issues going unnoticed. So, if you are struggling to cope with the care of a loved one, reach out to care groups and your local council for help.
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