A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Care Options for Ageing Parents
Our parents care for us for many years, but often the time will come when we need to repay the favour. As parents start to age, they might need more and more help with things, which can be challenging to navigate, so it may be helpful to understand what care options are available for your ageing parents and how to make good use of them.
In this article, the team from Mariposa Care, a network of high-quality residential and nursing care homes across the UK share their insight into the different care options to help you decide may be your best solution.
Care homes
A care home provides 24-hour care, accommodation and meals for your loved one. A residential home will be run by healthcare professionals and is designed for those who need personal care help such as washing, dressing and meals, although ongoing nursing assistance is not usually included.
If this is necessary, then a nursing home is likely to be a better option as this can provide ongoing medical support.
Care homes may be suitable for individuals who need round-the-clock care and are comfortable moving from their own home. They can remove a lot of stress and burden but can also lead to feelings of reduced independence and can sometimes be disorienting.
Care homes in the UK are regulated by the CQC, who provide regular inspections and quality ratings to help you compare your choices.
Home care
Sometimes it may be possible for an older person to remain in their own home and receive a tailored level of support. This will involve carers providing part time care or even live-in care on a short term or long term basis.
This is ideal for those who want to stay at home but still may need help and support to be able to live independently.
The care available can be tailored so is suitable for anyone whether they need a few hours of help per week or round the clock care.
There are regulated care agencies who can provide managed care services, which can include conducting risk assessments and designing personalised care plans for older adults.
This additional layer of management can lead to higher prices than if you are coordinating directly with your carers but can be useful for those who are not able to take an active role in care.
Sheltered housing and senior assisted living
Sheltered housing is made-up of self-contained flats or bungalows for the older adults. These are often rented from local authorities or housing associations and can sometimes be bought from private developers. They often have shared facilities such as laundry and communal areas where residents can come together to socialise.
These residents are typically expected to be able to look after themselves unsupervised but assisted living may also be available in some settings.
This kind of care is designed to be a halfway point between an ageing parent staying in their own home and moving into residential care.
They may be ideal for those who can live independently but might benefit from being part of a community and having the security of knowing there is provision for emergencies if needed.
When looking at care options, it is important to talk to your loved ones about what they want to help you make more informed choices.
Most care settings will be happy to talk to you and show you around so that you can all feel comfortable with the option that feels right for your family.
