Debunking Home Care myths

Home Care is one of the best ways for seniors to keep hold of their independence, while also ensuring that they get the care that they require. It is also a great way to offer respite to family carers, and to improve overall the quality of life for all. However, there remains many misconceptions and myths about Home Care for the elderly. This often prevents people from getting the care they need and deserve. In this article, we're debunking 5 of the most common Home Care myths.

 

#1 – Home Care is only for those who are extremely ill or needy

A very common misconception is that Home Care is only for those who require a high level of care, such as around the clock support for a critical illness. In reality, Home Care is extremely versatile, and is a great option for anyone needing some support. It includes not only personal care, but can also be a fantastic option for companionship, offering respite for family members. Home companionship care is a great way of maintaining independence for the client, empowering them to continue to live life on their terms.

 

#2 – I only need the support of my family or friends

Some people are lucky enough to have family members or friends that can offer care support. This is often a common and useful solution, as there is already familiarity and comfort between the two parties. Family members might help their elderly loved one with personal care and hygiene tasks, cooking them meals, cleaning their homes and more. Having this help is great, but it is important for the informal caregivers to have some respite and time for themselves. They may have their own job and family, which limits the amount of time and care they can devote. Hired Home Care helps to provide professional caregivers to help if family members are unable to. They also follow the existing care plan.

 

#3 – Home Care takes away independence

There is the fear that working with Home Care providers will take away a senior person’s independence, often with the concern that it would restrict their freedoms. It is important to keep in mind that Home Care is not about holding people back or restricting their freedoms. Instead, it aims to support them to continue living life to the fullest while remaining on their own terms. Home Care offers a flexible structure, enabling them to live as independently as possible at home while encouraging them to connect to the wider community and live an active and enriched life.

 

#4 – Home Care only offers short, impersonal care

Home Care doesn’t have to be short and sweet. Here at Right at Home, we offer one hour calls as minimum. This ensures that each of our clients can receive high quality care that isn’t rushed or impersonal. Our clients and care givers are matched to ensure that they suit the personal needs, which helps make a difference in improving the client’s quality of life.

 

#5 – Home Care isn’t a safe option during Covid-19

Covid-19 was and continues to be a frightening and sobering experience for those working in Health and Social care. Even as restrictions continue to ease, our care givers are provided with and wear full PPE for each of their visits and are encouraged to get vaccinated, to ensure that we are keeping our clients safe to the best of our abilities.

 

“Every Monday and Thursday our Fairy Godmother and Guardian Angel arrives to 'sit' with my husband and allow respite for me. It's wonderful for my husband to be able to do something worthwhile and provide for me. So important for me too. I cannot praise the lovely carer enough or Right at Home Stevenage, Letchworth & Hitchin. This is my second review and the service we are provided with hasn't faltered. Thank you so much.”

 

Debunking these myths will hopefully go some way to help encourage seniors and their families that Home Care is a viable and desirable option for providing support. If you’re looking for support for your loved one, or are interested in a career in care, then please get in touch to find out more.

 

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