1. Build a Checklist for Daily Activities that Require Assistance
Develop a comprehensive list outlining the daily activities that require assistance.
For example, individuals with limited mobility may need support with tasks such as rising, having a nutritious breakfast, and preparing for the day ahead. Others may be in search of companionship or a shopping partner, assistance with medication collection, maintaining a clean and orderly home, managing chores like laundry and ironing, preparing wholesome meals, facilitating bathing, and ensuring a restful night's sleep—all crucial considerations.
Moreover, for those in a caregiving role, the quest for the right care provider may involve identifying someone suitable for companionship or even overnight stays, providing a valuable opportunity for a well-deserved break.
At Right at Home, we carefully match Clients with CareGivers who share similar traits and interests to ensure we build solid relationships, and in many cases, true friendships. We have a ‘no strangers policy’ and will personally introduce our CareGivers to you and your family, before they start providing you with support.
2. Navigating Financial Support for Homecare
If you require assistance with essential day-to-day activities such as personal care, medication management, and meal preparation, you have the option to request a community care assessment from the adult social services department of your local council. This assessment is mandated to evaluate your care needs.
Typically, a social worker or care manager from the adult social services department will conduct a home visit to inquire about the specific assistance you require and your goals for care and support. It is essential to note that the assessment of 'need' may differ from evaluating what you 'want.'
Subsequently, the council will determine if you have 'eligible' needs, referring to needs that can be publicly funded. If the local authority concludes that you meet this criterion, they will proceed with a financial assessment. The financial assessment aims to ascertain whether you qualify for financial assistance toward the cost of care and, if so, the determined amount.
Here are some tips on how you can fund your homecare.
3. Arranging Care and Support
The council may make arrangements on your behalf with private companies or charities to provide your care and support. Alternatively, you might choose to independently arrange for a care worker. This decision could stem from various reasons, such as the council providing you with a personal budget for self-directed care, determining that you don't meet their eligibility criteria, or simply because you prefer to organise your care autonomously.
For guidance and advice on care services, the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) offers clear insights.
4. Deciding on a care agency or a personal assistant
When seeking care and support at home, you must determine whether you prefer to directly hire a personal assistant or opt for the services of a domiciliary care agency.
