Choosing the right care option when Mum can’t go back home on her own
It can be hard to know what to do for the best when a parent or loved one can no longer life safely and independently in their own home, without additional support. Thankfully, there are a variety of care options out there which can help, ranging from regular care visits to enable your loved one to stay safe and well at home, to short-term respite solutions and longer-term residential care.
Whether you are witnessing a gradual decline in your loved one’s mobility and capabilities, or a sudden setback has left you worried for their wellbeing, this guide will walk you through potential care solutions, considerations and practical steps, enabling you to make an informed decision that meets your loved one’s needs.
What to do when Mum can’t return home after hospital stay
It is often only when a fall, injury or illness has seen a parent or loved one admitted to hospital, that the full extent of their care needs becomes clear. After all, most people are not surrounded by health professionals in their day-to-day life, who are trained to spot signs and symptoms, or recognise if a medical condition has progressed.
If you find yourself in a position when Mum can’t go home without additional care and support, you are not alone. The good thing is that care professionals can visit your loved one in hospital to assess their care needs, helping you to identify an appropriate package of support, and ensure everything is in place before they are discharged.
Speak to the hospital staff caring for your loved one, and the relevant Local Authority Adult Social Care Team, about arranging a care assessment to establish the safest and most appropriate course of action to take when they leave hospital.
Choosing the right care option in urgent circumstances
Whether your loved one has experienced a decline in their physical or cognitive health, has received a new diagnosis or there are additional post-hospital safety concerns or care needs to consider, it is not uncommon for families to require urgent or emergency care solutions.
Dependent upon your loved one’s individual needs, circumstances and preferences, there are a number of care options which can be put in place quickly, to support their health, safety and wellbeing.
- Home care visits – regular visits from professional carers in your loved one’s own home, to help with daily tasks such as washing and dressing, medication management, meal preparation, grocery shopping and housework.
- Day care – where your loved one spends the day at a local care home, supported by an expert care team, for companionship, a change of scene, homecooked meal and access to resident activities and entertainment.
- Respite breaks – a short stay in a residential care home with access to all of the facilities, activities and tailored care offered to full-time residents.
- Residential care homes – bespoke 24/7 care and support in a homely environment where all housework tasks, utilities and meals are taken care of.
- Nursing care homes – round-the-clock, hospital-standard care for those with long-term of complex medical conditions, in a purpose-built and well-equipped environment.
- Dementia care homes – expert, full-time care and support for those living with dementia, in a safe and simulating environment.
At Somerset Care, we understand how precious it is for loved ones to be able to remain in the place they call home, and so always advocate care options which enable them to remain safe and independent in familiar surroundings for as long as possible.
Factors to consider when seeking care
Once a care assessment has identified the type and level of care your loved one needs in order to be safe and well, you can then begin to look into the practicalities of how and where they will receive this care.
- Location – if your loved one needs additional support, it is worth considering their proximity to family and friends, and how easy it will be for them to access any help that they need.
- Cost of care – dependent upon your loved one’s financial situation and medical needs, they may be eligible for financial assistance with some or all of their care costs. Speak with the relevant Local Authority Adult Social Care Team to find out what they may be entitled to.
- Quality of care – whether your loved one will receive care in their own home, or in a dedicated care setting, the most important thing is that the care they receive is safe, high-quality care from a regulated care provider. Check the Care Quality Commission website for inspection ratings, and also seek out independently-verified customer reviews on platforms such as carehome.co.uk or homecare.co.uk, for an insight into the customer experience.
Making the transition into care easier
It can sometimes be difficult to accept a sudden change in circumstances, especially if that means seeking help from others, but there are ways to make this transition a little easier.
- Offer choice – As far as possible, involve your loved one in the discussions and choices about their care. A care assessment will always seek to get to know your loved one as an individual, as well understand their care needs, but be sure to also advocate for their preferences as far as is practicable.
- Emphasise the benefits of care – Whilst some fear that care is about removing independence, the right care solution is actually about supporting people to live the life they choose! Help your loved one to see that care can be empowering, and that it will help them to remain as independent as possible, for as long as possible.
- Maintain hobbies and stay connected – In times of change, it is more important than ever for your loved one to stay connected with friends and family, and keep doing the things that they love. Whether they are making the move into residential care, or receiving care in their own home, keeping a sense of routine and purpose is incredibly beneficial to health and wellbeing.
At Somerset Care, we understand that an urgent search for care can be emotionally challenging for all concerned. We’re here to provide the information and guidance you need to make an informed care decision for your loved one, and make the transition as smooth as possible for the whole family.
Need to talk the options through?
Our aim is to make what can be an overwhelming and emotional journey as reassuring and straightforward as possible. Please contact our friendly Enquiries Team for expert care advice and to explore the support options available for you and your loved one.
