Recognising changes in loved ones is a gradual process that can take time, whether these changes result from an illness, ageing, or conditions like dementia or Parkinson's disease. Care agencies such as Papillon are here to provide support during this transition.
But when is the right time to think about getting some home help?
There are many reasons why you might start to think you may need some extra home help:
When daily routines/tasks become a struggle:
When struggling with tasks such as washing, dressing, getting out of bed, or meal preparation, a care agency can be there to assist with these daily activities. The carers can also help with shopping and cleaning, ensuring your home remains comfortable and safe.
When personal needs are complex:
A care agency can provide the necessary expertise and support for people with complex medical needs or require specialised care,. This could include support for Multiple Sclerosis, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Motor Neuron Disease, Leg wraps, Hoisting, Stoma and Catheter care
When family or friends can no longer provide adequate support:
If your personal needs exceed what your family or friends can manage, a care agency can step in to provide professional care. This might be due to the intensity of care required, the need for specialised skills, or the desire to relieve family caregivers.
After a hospital discharge or illness:
If you’ve recently been discharged from the hospital or are recovering from an illness, a care agency can provide short-term support to help you regain your independence. This support may involve reablement services, which assist you in regaining the ability to perform daily activities.
Having someone come into your home can be daunting for many. We understand that requesting extra home help can be challenging and emotional for you and your loved ones. It may take time to feel comfortable with the idea of strangers assisting you at home. To ease into this adjustment, consider introducing the concept of having assistance around the house early on. For example, a care package might start with domestic support and later expand to include medication reminders or personal care as needs evolve.
Initiate a discussion early when you notice some struggles at home. Start by gently acknowledging changes in the person’s abilities and needs. You might use phrases like, “I’ve noticed it’s been a bit harder for you to do some things recently,” or, “I’ve been thinking about ways we can make your daily life a little easier.” Initially, avoid using words like “care” or “carer,” which might evoke feelings of dependence.
Gently discuss the possibility of exploring options like home care, emphasising how a home care agency can provide support, allowing your loved one to maintain their independence and continue enjoying their favourite activities. Present the agency as a means to help them stay in their own home while addressing their needs.
Be prepared for a gradual approach: Be ready to discuss the topic multiple times over weeks/months, allowing your loved one time to process the information.
Factors to consider:
Needs assessment:
A needs assessment can help determine the level and type of care required.
Funding:
You may be eligible for funding or support through government programs or local authorities.
Care preferences:
Consider your preferences for care and support, including the type of home help you need, the frequency of visits, and the type of care worker you prefer.
Finding home help – also known as domiciliary care – can feel overwhelming. But agencies like Papillon are there to support you every step of the way.
Papillon Home Care provides both short- and long-term care, enabling individuals to remain in their homes for as long as possible. This allows them to stay close to familiar surroundings and maintain their regular daily routines in the places where they feel most comfortable.
The team at Papillon Home Care are ready to support you or your loved one, for more information on our home help services, complete our care enquiry form and a member of the team will be in touch to discuss your personalise care requirements.
