Why Home Care is Better Than Care Homes
Discover the advantages of personalised care, familiar surroundings, emotional well-being, and greater independence.
When it comes to providing care for our elderly or vulnerable loved ones, the decision can be a difficult and emotional one. In recent years, the demand for alternative care options has been on the rise, and home care has emerged as a popular choice for many families. Choosing between home care and care homes is a significant decision, and every family’s situation is unique.
Comfort
Home care allows your loved ones to remain in the comfort of their own home, surrounded by familiar and cherished belongings and memories. Being in a familiar environment can significantly reduce the anxiety and stress that can accompany a transition to a care home.
It also helps maintain a sense of independence and control over one’s life, which is vital for emotional well-being and is something we value highly at Home Instead. You can maintain your daily routines, make choices about your daily activities, and even participate in household tasks if you are able to. This sense of control over your life can lead to increased self-esteem and an improved quality of life.
Personalisation
One of the primary advantages of home care is the personalised attention and care that your loved ones receive. We tailor our home care service approach to meet the unique needs and preferences of each individual care plan. If there is a specific activity you would like to do during your visits, such as going shopping, watching a programme or just having a chat, it’s something we can arrange with your Care Professional.
When we are choosing which Care Professional to allocate to our clients we always take into consideration factors like similar personalities and hobbies that will enable you to get along and enjoy each other’s company. We prioritise making genuine connections with our services as the care we provide is so much more than just helping out around the house.
Family involvement and social engagement
Home care enables continuous family involvement in the care of your loved ones. You can coordinate with us and your Care Professionals, visit as often as you like, and actively participate in your loved ones’ care plan. This close involvement can create a strong support system that is often more challenging to maintain when a loved one resides in a care home.
Staying at home enables your loved ones to continue participating in social activities and maintain relationships with friends and social groups. Building relationships with your Care Professionals can have a big impact on your overrall mental health and can help to solve the often neglected issue of loneliness in older people. Our Care Professionals offer the opportunity to travel to social groups or clubs and even to discover new ones, such as the Let’s Sing group that Home Instead Retford and Gainsborough proudly sponsor. This social engagement is vital for mental and emotional well-being.
Conclusion
Selecting between home care and care homes is a significant decision, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Every family’s situation is unique, and the choice you make should be based on your loved ones’ specific needs and preferences.
Home care offers many advantages, including personalised care, a familiar environment, emotional well-being, the ability to maintain independence and it can also be more cost-effective and reduce health risks.
Ultimately, the well-being and happiness of your loved ones should guide your choices. Home care can be a great option for those who prefer to age in place, maintain their independence, and receive the support they need to live comfortably and safely in their own homes. It’s a choice that often leads to enhanced quality of life, both for your loved ones and your family as a whole.