Both home care and care homes are services that nurture our needs for many of us later in life. As a common and often necessary assistance, these are facilities that have and will touch almost all of our lives. But with cost, distance and unsolicited change attached, how do we make the right decision?
They carry similar meaning and the same words, but actually, their characteristics make them very different. Home care denotes a care service whereby a professional carer visits an individual in the comfort of their home. The carer often provides services that the individual can no longer do themselves, such as a food shop, cleaning and reminders to take medication. As the carer isn’t around 24/7, it gives the individual a glimmer of independence and the satisfaction of staying in their beloved home.
Care homes are a full-time facility, often residential or nursing homes, that provide accommodation and assistance to support those who need it. Staff at these residencies are always on hand to offer care when required. As care homes are often busier, with other elderly people, there are more opportunities to socialise and meet new people.
Choosing one isn’t a straightforward ordeal. Let’s break it down further and compare the real benefits both have to offer.
Benefits of Home Care
• You don’t have to part ways with your home comforts. it allows you to stay in your home, with all its sentimental value, for a lot longer.
• It encourages less reliance upon family members whilst still giving individuals the independence and freedom to spend their days how they wish.
• Remaining in the same home makes it easier for friends and family to visit. Dropping over for a cup of tea when you live near is easy, but if you move to a care home, the luxury of proximity isn’t always guaranteed.
• With just one individual to care for, there’s more one-on-one and personalised care. The carer gives their full attention without distractions, which can be the case at a busy care home.
• The care can work around you and your needs. The provided care is often flexible to match as much or as little assistance as you require.
• As a service that comes to you, it’s in fact the more affordable option. The hourly rates typically cost a lot less than committing to a care home.
However, is it a long-term plan? Carers won’t be there all the time, and as we get older this can become a necessary trait.
Benefits of A Care Home
• A private residency with staff always on-hand, there’s the added reassurance of safety. It’s an added peace of mind for family members who might worry about individuals who live alone.
• Loneliness is a prevailing issue amongst elderly people. Care homes are a solution to combat the problem, with opportunities to socialise and meet new people.
• Whatever and whenever you need care, there is someone available to provide assistance. Most care homes have nurses and staff through the night as well as the day.
• There are no extra costs to worry you. All of your bills and room upkeep is taken care of, keeping the environment clean and warm without any hassle.
• Around-the-clock care includes nourishing meals. Nutritional requirements are met, and the pressure is taken off the individual to meet these needs.
Where Else to Look for Advice?
Before you make your choice, it’s a good idea to read as much information as possible. Charities, like Age UK, and the NHS have great tips to help. From advice on financing and finding the right one in your location, there’s no doubt there’s a lot to consider.
Elderly care is an ideal solution for a better way of life in older age. There are plenty of other ways to improve your lifestyle in retirement, so why not discover more for yourself here.