Are you sure you need a care home?

Moving into residential or nursing care is a big decision. Sometimes it is clear that there is no alternative and if this is the case 'click here' to have a look at some of the things to consider to ease the transition from home to residential care.

If you believe that with some help you could stay in your own home and that is what you would like to do - take a look at our register of 3 star 'Excellent' rated Domiciliary Care Agencies, also knows as home care agencies.

Many people feel guilty about even considering care for a loved one and so I have put together some links to organisations and companies that may be able to help you or your relative remain in their own home.

1. Everybody is entitled to an assessment by social services and this is often the first step towards getting the help and support you need. This assessment is sometimes called 'an assessment of need'. For more information 'click here', this page will also link through to your council to see what support they offer as this is different from region to region.
   
   
2. If you provide 'regular and substantial care for someone over 18 you are also entitled to an assessment, 'click here' to read about what may be available to help you.

People paying for their own care, 'self funders' are also entitled to this assessment. Having an assessment can help you and your carer to establish whether staying at home is an option, there is no charge for these assessments.

Organising care, either at home or in a residential setting needs to be planned and this is particularly true when you are funding the care yourself. I would urge you to seek professional advice from an Independent Financial Advisor who specialises in care fees. To give you an idea how the system works download a free care fees planning guide.

SERVICES THAT MAY HELP YOU STAY IN YOUR OWN HOME

1. Is there something you could install in your home that would help you to stay? Perhaps a stair lift, downstairs bathroom or simply some help with the smaller jobs. 'Foundations' is the government appointed national body for home improvement agencies in England . They will provide advice on any grants available and assistance on what work would be helpful in helping you to stay in your own home. To search their directory of companies that can carry out the work for you 'click here'.
   
   
   
2. 'The Disability Register' is a not for profit organisation and provides details of new and second hand equipment that may make life a little easier. Items are bought and sold on a direct one-to-one basis, no middle men or commission is involved.
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Day care centres provide the opportunity spend time with other people, as well as providing a range of activities and breaks, they also give a carer a break.
   
   Run by local authorities and local voluntary groups a national register doesn't exist, but 'click here' and enter the town you are looking in to see a list of local Age Concern day centres.
   
   
   
4. 'Meals on Wheels', can be provided through your local authority 'click here' for more information.
   
   Alternatively there are many private companies that deliver hot food to your door for example 'Wiltshire Foods'.
   
   
   
   
5. Help within the home can be provided by 'domiciliary care'. They can help with things like meals, bathing and dressing and may also provide support or a break for carers. The Care Quality Commission has a full list of all of the 3 star domiciliary agencies in England 'click here'.
   
   
   
   
6. Being lonely can also be a problem when trying to remain in your own home. 'Contact the Elderly' is a volunteer organisation that organises regular Sunday afternoon tea parties for people over 75, who live alone with little or no social support, 'click here' for more information.
   
   
   
   
   
7. Looking after a pet can be a great concern when living alone. The Cinnamon Trust is a national charity that 'holds hands' with owners to provide loving care for their pets. They will walk the dog, foster pets when owners need hospital care, or fetch the cat food, 'click here' for more information.
   
   
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Whilst you are working out what is the best route to take, why not send some flowers and let them know that you are thinking of them.