A Comprehensive Guide for Families: Caring for the Elderly at Home
Written by Keith Dias
A Comprehensive Guide for Families: Caring for the Elderly at Home
Prepared by Apex Healthcare Services, Reading, Berkshire.
Introduction
Caring for the elderly, particularly your parents, can be both a rewarding and challenging journey. Here at Apex Healthcare Services, we understand that this role requires much thought, preparation, and a lot of love. We have prepared this guide to provide an overview of key points to bear in mind as you undertake elderly care, along with potential financial aid available to you in the United Kingdom.
Section 1: Key Factors to Consider
1.1. Health and Medical Needs
Elderly care often means being attentive to health conditions and potential future medical needs. Ensure that they have regular health check-ups and their medications are managed properly. If required, engage professional nursing or health aide services.
1.2. Home Safety
When caring for the elderly at home, their safety is paramount. Make your home senior-friendly: install grab bars in bathrooms, remove loose rugs to prevent falls, ensure proper lighting, and consider other safety measures related to their specific health conditions.
1.3. Emotional Well-being
Ensuring emotional well-being is an integral part of caring for the elderly. Provide emotional support and engage them in social activities to help prevent feelings of loneliness or isolation.
1.4. Legal and Financial Planning
While caring for the elderly, it’s important to look into power of attorney and other legal arrangements to ensure that financial matters and decisions can be handled effectively.
1.5. Respite Care
Caring for the elderly can be physically and emotionally demanding. Consider respite care services which provide temporary relief to carers, allowing you some time to rest and recharge.
1.6. Useful Technology
Consider technology to support your care efforts. Various devices can be incredibly useful, such as:
Personal alarm systems: These can call for help in case of emergencies, providing peace of mind.
Medication reminder apps or devices: These can help ensure medication is taken correctly and on time.
Smart home devices: These can help control lights, temperature, or even detect unusual activity in the home.
Telecare systems: These can help monitor health remotely, perfect for families who can’t always be there.
Video calling technology: Keeps families connected and provides a way to check in regularly.
Section 2: Financial Support Available
The UK government provides several forms of financial assistance to help care for elderly individuals at home.
2.1. Attendance Allowance
If your parent is over the state pension age and requires help due to physical or mental disability, they may be entitled to Attendance Allowance. It’s tax-free and isn’t means-tested.
2.2. Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
For those under the state pension age, PIP can help with some of the extra costs caused by long-term ill health or disability. It is made up of two parts – the daily living component and the mobility component.
2.3. Carer’s Allowance
If you provide elderly care for someone at least 35 hours a week and they get certain benefits, you may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance.
2.4. Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
For those under 65 at the time of claim, DLA may be available. It has two components: care and mobility.
2.5. Local Authority Funding
Local councils can provide assistance for home adaptations or equipment after a needs assessment.
2.6. Direct Payments
If your parent has been assessed as needing help from social services, they can get direct payments to buy the necessary care and services themselves.
2.7. Council Tax Reduction
You may be eligible for a reduction in council tax if your home has been adapted to meet the needs of an elderly or disabled person.
2.8. NHS Continuing Healthcare
In some cases, the NHS may cover the costs of healthcare and social care in the home.
Section 3: Helpful Resources
The following organizations can provide further guidance:
Age UK (www.ageuk.org.uk)
Carers UK (www.carersuk.org)
Independent Age (www.independentage.org)
Remember, caring for a loved one is a significant commitment but you don’t have to do it alone. At Apex Healthcare Services, we’re committed to helping you navigate this journey. Reach out to local support groups and make use of available resources and financial assistance to make the journey smoother.
Elderly Homecare Checklist
This checklist can help you ensure that you’ve addressed the key areas when caring for your elderly loved ones at home.
Home Safety:
Home is free from hazards that could cause slips or falls (remove loose rugs, tidy cords away, etc.)
Grab bars installed in bathrooms and other relevant areas
Adequate lighting, especially in stairways, hallways, and bathrooms
Emergency contact numbers are easily accessible
Health Care:
Regular health check-ups are scheduled
Medication management system in place (reminder apps, pill organizers, etc.)
Special health needs (like physiotherapy, wound care, etc.) are addressed
Access to necessary medical equipment (wheelchair, walker, etc.)
Emotional Well-being:
Regular social activities are planned
Emotional support is provided
Any signs of depression or anxiety are addressed
Legal and Financial:
Legal arrangements (wills, power of attorney, etc.) are in place
Awareness and access to financial benefits or allowances
Financial obligations (bill payments, insurance, etc.) are managed
Respite Care:
Plan for regular breaks or time-off for primary caregiver
Backup caregivers or services are identified
Technology:
Personal alarm system in place
Medication reminder apps/devices are used
Smart home devices are installed, if needed
Telecare systems are considered, if needed
Video calling technology is available for communication
External Support:
Contacted Age UK, Carers UK, Independent Age, and other relevant organizations for guidance
Local community resources are identified (support groups, clubs, etc.)
Remember, every situation is unique. This checklist is a starting point, and you may need to add or adjust items based on your specific circumstances. If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to Apex Healthcare Services, we’re here to support you.
