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The Role of Technology in Modern Homecare

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

The Role of Technology in Modern Homecare

Homecare for loved ones who are elderly or ill allows them to remain independent and have the support there when they need it. Technology can add to this support through many different ways and it is becoming more common within households as a way to assist with caring for loved ones. It can create a safer living environment through remote monitoring, telehealth, medication management and home automation devices. Technology can play an important role in modern homecare with many benefits which are discussed below.

Remote Monitoring

Technology has made it possible for healthcare providers to remotely monitor patients at home. Patients can use devices such as:

  • Wearables.
  • Sensors.
  • Smart Phone Technology.

These are used to monitor vital signs and health indicators. Healthcare providers can use this data to track patients’ health status and intervene if necessary. This gives families peace of mind that their loved one will be taken care of even if they live alone. Having a monitor on allows them to go about with their usual daily routine all the while knowing they are being looked after.

Did You Know?

– 99% of England’s GP practices are now activating remote consultation platforms.

– Digital medicine, artificial intelligence and robotics could significantly change the roles and functions of clinical staff by 2040.

– This means delivering improvements in patient care, labour productivity of healthcare staff and reduced costs.

Homecare and technology

Telehealth

Telehealth is a term used to describe the use of technology to deliver healthcare services remotely. They relate to services such as virtual doctor visits and allow loved ones to receive medical care from the comfort of their own homes.

Telehealth is especially important for individuals with chronic conditions who may require frequent check-ins with their healthcare provider. It ensures they don’t have to travel as much and prevents them from cross infections.

It is also particularly useful for patients who have mobility issues and those who live in remote areas as they can access the care they need in the comfort of their own homes.

Telehealth, modern technology and elderly woman speaking with healthcare provider.

It can help reduce healthcare costs by reducing hospital readmissions and emergency room visits. It allows healthcare providers to check-in on patients to monitor their health which in turn can prevent needless hospital visits. Improved health outcomes are possible when patients can access care quickly and easily. They are more likely to comply with their care plans. Telehealth is accessible, convenient, and cost-effective for both patients and healthcare providers.

Medication Management

Technology has made it easier for loved ones to manage their medications. Smart pill dispensers and medication reminders can help them stay on track with their medications. This reduces the risk of withdrawal symptoms and medical emergencies.
Examples of medication management technology are:

  • Pillbox marked with days of the week.
  • A high-tech pill dispenser that beeps as a reminder, especially beneficial for people suffering with dementia.
  • As a vibrating alarm on a watch as a pill-taking reminder.

This has advantages for the caregiver as well as your loved one as they can rely on the device as a good medication reminder. It prevents mishaps being taken with regards to important medication.

Elderly man, technology and ipad at home with medicine.

Another technological advancement that has greatly impacted home care medical management is online patient portals. These patient portals allow your loved one to access their medical records, check test results and communicate with healthcare providers. It allows for better communication, more comprehensive medical management, and the development of effective treatment plans.

Home Automation

Home automation involves using smart devices connected to the internet. These devices can be controlled via a smartphone, tablet or computer. Home automation can improve the safety and security of your home. Smart cameras and sensors can be used to monitor homes for intruders or to detect smoke, carbon monoxide, and other hazards. The alerts can notify your loved one if something unusual happens in your home, allowing action to be taken immediately.

Smart home technology can help loved ones with mobility issues or disabilities to manage in their homes more easily.

Voice-controlled devices, such as Amazon Echo or Google Home, can help patients turn on lights, adjust thermostats, and perform other tasks without having to move around their home.

These allow for a safer environment to live in.

Technology and homecare

Through technology, the overall quality of life of your loved one can be improved greatly. It is invaluable to those with long-term illnesses or physical limitations and their families. It provides them with much-needed peace of mind and allows for more independence and control over their own health care needs.

Find out more about our care services today.

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Understanding Types of Homecare Services

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

Understanding the Different Types of Home Care Services

Home care services, also known as domiciliary care, are when care staff travel to the homes of people in need of assistance. This care is arranged through the local council or through private agencies. They come in the form of healthcare jobs that provide assistance with activities of daily living and healthcare to individuals in their own homes. They cover a wide range of services such as personal care, respite care, and end-of-life care.

With the right knowledge and education, healthcare professionals, caregivers, and families can all make informed decisions on how to best provide care and assistance to a loved one living at home. By understanding the different types of home care services available, everyone can better work towards improving the quality of life for those who need it most.

Personal Care

Personal care is a home care service that provides assistance to individuals with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and hygiene needs. It is designed to help seniors, those with disabilities, or anyone that needs assistance to maintain independence in their own home.

This type of care also includes meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, errands, and companionship. Personal care attendants can provide assistance with mobility and transfers, as well as provide assistance with activities of daily living, such as meal planning and grocery shopping. They can also provide medication reminders and help with medication administration.

Additionally, personal care attendants can provide transportation to medical appointments and social activities, as well as help with organizing and maintaining personal records and bills. They can also offer emotional support, comfort, and safety for individuals who require assistance.

Personal care for elderly woman and the different types of homecare services.

Types of Personal Care include:

  • Bathing/Grooming Assistance
  • Light Housekeeping
  • Meal Preparation

Care 24-7

People who use our services range from older people, to those with physical disabilities, people with dementia or those who are nearing the end of their life. Care is also available for those who are returning from a stay in hospital offering respite for family carers.

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Respite Care

Understanding the different types of homecare with elderly woman and nurse

Respite care is short-term relief for primary caregivers, allowing them to take a break from their caregiving duties. It can be provided in a variety of settings, including in-home care, adult day services, or overnight care in a facility. Respite care can be arranged on a temporary or more permanent basis. This depends on the needs of the caregiver and the care recipient.

This service guarantees that your loved one will be looked after by a qualified healthcare provider, providing peace of mind to the main caregiver, who may be a relative and is unable to provide care for a certain amount of time.

Caring for a loved one full-time can be an emotionally, physically, and mentally draining experience. It can be difficult to manage a full-time caregiving role while also tending to other responsibilities, such as family and work obligations. In these cases, respite care can provide a much-needed break for family members who are providing care, knowing their loved one is in safe and capable hands. This rest period can be used to attend to other duties, or simply take some time to relax and recharge.

Respite care also provides an opportunity for the family member to get a better understanding of the care their loved one needs, allowing them to make informed decisions about the best care support for their loved one in the future.

Dementia Care

Dementia care services can be provided through home care services. Home care services allow a person with dementia to receive care and support in the comfort and privacy of their own home. Assistance can include help with daily living activities (such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation), help with managing medications, and can also be a source of companionship. It is care that focuses on the emotional and psychological needs of the individual.

Services may include:

  • Supervision and safety monitoring: Ensures alarms are functioning and house safety features are installed.
  • Assistance with activities of daily living: Assistance with bathing and cleaning.
  • Assistance with nutrition and meal preparation: Ensures medicine and food is taken correctly.
  • Cognitive stimulation activities: Such as puzzle making, creating art or listening to music.

If you would like to read more about dementia and in-home care, our blog The Benefits of In-Home Care for Elderly Adults with Dementia will provide more information.

If you’d like to gain a better understanding of dementia and the advantages of in-home care for elderly people suffering from it, our blog post about these topics is a great resource to look into.

End-of-Life Care

End-of-life care, also known as palliative care, is care that is provided to an individual who is in the last stages of life. It is often provided by home care services and typically includes physical, emotional, and spiritual support. End-of-care services can range from providing comfort and companionship to helping with medical and practical tasks to providing help with daily living activities.

End-of-care services also involves providing support to the individual and their family during this difficult time. This includes assistance in planning end-of-life wishes as well as providing emotional and spiritual support. Benefits of this type of care include:

Flexibility: It allows patients to remain in familiar surroundings, surrounded by family and friends, while still receiving specialised medical and emotional care.

Cost Savings: Generally speaking, palliative care at home is less expensive than care in a hospital or hospice.

Quality of Life: Many people prefer to stay in the familiar environment of their own home, where they can maintain the hobbies, activities, and routines that they value while feeling comfortable.

If you are considering in-home care for yourself or a loved one, it is important to understand the different types of services available and what each type of service entails.

Having a thorough understanding of the different types of in-home care available and their associated benefits can help you make an informed decision about what type of care is best for you and your loved one. Consider the various types of in-home care services such as companionship, personal care, and medical care and assess which type is most appropriate for your particular situation. Research the credentials and experience of any potential in-home care providers and ask questions to ensure that you are comfortable with the person providing care for your loved one.

In addition, look into the cost of in-home care services and what type of insurance coverage is available, if any, to help cover the costs. With this information on hand, you can make an informed decision about the type of in-home care that is best for you and your loved one’s needs.

Considering in-home care, contact us today.

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The Benefits of In-Home Care for Elderly Adults with Dementia

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

The Benefits of In-Home Care for Elderly Adults with Dementia

Caring for an elderly adult with dementia can be a challenging and demanding task. However, when you choose in-home care to look after your loved one, the process can be stress-free. In-home care can look after their needs in ways an assisted living facility can’t. It promotes independence and allows them to live comfortably in their own homes. There are many benefits of in-home care for elderly adults with dementia. Choosing this type of care has the potential to enrich an older person’s life while helping them remain safe at home for as long as possible. By providing personalised attention, these services create opportunities for social interaction, greater independence, and meaningful connections. They help to ensure safety while dealing with health changes associated with dementia.

At Care 24-7, people who use in-home care services range from elderly people, those with physical disabilities, people with dementia, those who are nearing the end of their life and those returning from a stay in hospital.

This offers respite for family carers and gives them the peace of mind that their loved ones are being taken care of with respect and kindness in the comfort of their own homes.

Familiar Surroundings

Being in a familiar environment can provide a sense of comfort and security for individuals with dementia. This is less disorienting than a move to an assisted living facility, which can lead to unease because of such a drastic change in life. Maintaining a schedule similar to the one they followed prior to their diagnosis can help reduce anxiety and confusion while improving overall well-being.

Did You Know?
The person most often diagnosed with dementia is a grandparent (17%) or parent / step-parent (13%).

Almost half (49%) of people say that dementia is the health condition they fear most about getting in the future.

in-home care and dementia services carer

Care 24-7’s dementia care service is led by a SPECAL Practitioner trained by the Contented Dementia Trust at their Centre of Excellence at Burford. They are trained to understand the disability of dementia from the perspective of the person with the condition and to deliver coaching to all those who come into contact with them. A SPECAL practitioner can then provide the help needed for that particular person based on what is familiar to them and what matters the most in their life.

Independence

In-home carer and man with dementia

The key to maintaining independence for those living with dementia is an early diagnosis followed by an individual care plan that considers nutrition, physical exercise, and mental stimulation. In-home care allows individuals to maintain as much independence as possible by promoting these 3 factors.

Nutrition: This should include fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grain foods.

Physical Exercise: Light exercise such as walking or Tai Chi can be beneficial.

Mental Stimulation: This can include word games or creating art.

Active senior man with dementia and in-home care

An in-home carer can provide them with the skills needed to perform tasks and assess their needs based on what stage their dementia is at. The carer ensures there is a good balance between being helpful and supportive whilst allowing your loved one to remain independent for as long as possible.

Personalised Care

In-home care allows for the development of a personalised care plan that is tailored to meet the specific needs of the individual with dementia. In-home care can also reduce the risk of infection, which is especially important for individuals with dementia who may be more susceptible to illness. Personalised care is individualised to meet the specific needs of the person with dementia, and can include:

  • Assistance with activities such as meal planning, bathing and dressing.
  • Medication management to ensure that the person is taking their medication correctly.
  • Safety monitoring to ensure that the person is safe and secure in their home.
  • Assistance with transportation to appointments and other activities.
woman with dementia and in-home carer

At Care 24-7, the first step would be to work closely with your loved one to develop a person-centred Individual Care Plan that will take into consideration their wishes and preferences regarding their personal home care needs. This technique easily translates into a set routine for dementia patients who thrive on familiarity and repetition.

Cost-Effective

In-home care is often less expensive than other forms of care, such as assisted living or nursing homes. The cost of in-home care will depend on a number of factors, such as the level of care required and the provider. In-home care can range from a few hours of help per week to around-the-clock care, meaning costs is dependent on the circumstances. Assisted living facilities typically have a set monthly fee which can include room, meals, and various activities and services.

Money box for health costs and in-home care

Factors that can affect the cost of care:

  • The home modifications your loved one needs such as handrails and alarm systems.
  • Whether medical or non-medical care is required. Medical includes physical therapy while non-medical includes household duties.

You may be entitled to some level of funding to finance your care needs. Speak to your Local Authority for an assessment of your financial situation and request a “care needs assessment”.

It’s always recommended to consider the specific needs and preferences of the elderly person and your budget. Additionally, it’s important to check if the costs are covered by insurance, as it can help with the expenses. By carefully evaluating the costs and benefits of both options, you will be in a better place to make a good decision.

Family Involvement

Woman with dementia and young girl in-home care

In-home care allows family members to be more involved in the care of their loved ones, which can provide emotional support and peace of mind. With in-home care, families are more confident that their loved one will receive individualised attention and guidance from a seasoned caregiver on matters related to health, nutrition, and activities of daily living.

Additionally, in-home care allows family members to remain actively involved in important aspects of their loved ones’ life, such as interacting with doctors and managing financial items. As peace of mind is essential for seniors and their families alike, in-home care certainly provides that for them.

The above benefits can help with the stress and uncertainty of having a loved one with dementia. They serve to alleviate any worries knowing that help is on-hand from the comfort of their own home.

If you are considering in-home care, contact us today.

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5 Tips for Finding the Right Home Care Provider for Your Loved One

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

5 Tips for Finding the Right Home Care Provider for Your Loved One

Finding the right home care provider for our loved one can be a challenging process. It is essential that we find someone dependable, experienced and trustworthy to ensure their safety and comfort. Whether it is selecting the right home care provider to keep track of their daily routine and medications, or finding one for domestic purposes such as cleaning, finding quality care doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

The good news is there are several steps you can take to ensure you make the best decision possible when selecting a home care provider. From reaching out to trusted sources for recommendations to scheduling consultations, this post gives you five tips for ensuring family members have access to tailored and high-quality home care services that meet their individual needs safely and securely.

Home care assistant and elderly man
How many people receive home care in the UK?

The number of people receiving domiciliary care in the UK is more than 950,000.

care of the older person supporting hands
How many home care providers are there in the UK?

There are just over 10,100 home care providers in the UK which are registered and regulated by their country’s regulatory body.

older person home care services in bradford and leeds
How many people work in home care?

The UK domiciliary care workforce totals nearly 823,000.

1. What Type of Care is Needed?

It is important to determine what type of care is needed, whether it’s 24/7 care or a call in service for a few hours, it will all depend on your loved one. You will also need to determine if it is to help with their day-to-day life such as keeping up with the housekeeping or with personal health such as bathing. Is it medical care assistance that is needed? Suitable for someone dealing with a long-term illness or recovering from surgeries or injures. You will need to determine what type of home care they require the most, then you can determine what agencies can meet these requirements.

At Care 24-7, our first step is to work closely with you to develop a person-centred Individual Care Plan that will take into consideration your wishes and preferences regarding your personal home care needs. This plan and the quality of your home care service will be monitored and reviewed regularly to ensure you are totally satisfied with all aspects of the support you receive from us.

Care 24-7 logo homecare agency and finding the right home care provider for your loved one

2. Get Recommendations

Ask family, friends, and healthcare professionals for recommendations on reputable home care providers. Take time to research quality home care providers and read online reviews to get a better understanding of the services they offer and the quality of care they provide. Do they provide 24/7 care? Are staff members fully qualified? Do they receive regular inspection checks? Use review sites such as Trustpilot to see what other people have said about providers.

3. Schedule Consultations

Family on a video with home care provider for a consultation

It is a good idea to schedule consultations with different providers to get a sense of their approach to care and to ask any questions you may have. Scheduling consultations with multiple providers will allow you to compare and contrast their services and determine which provider is the best fit for your loved one. Come prepared and bring a list of questions to the consultations which will help you gather the information you need to make an informed decision. Ask to take a tour of the provider’s facility, giving you a sense of the environment and equipment. It will also give you a sense of the provider’s team and how they are in person.

At Care 24-7, we do the utmost to support you with all the help, advice and information you may need to give you the confidence to make your own decisions right from the start of the process.

4. Ask Questions

Before you choose a home care provider, make sure to ask questions during the interview process to ensure that the provider is a good fit for your loved one. Ask about their experience in caring for seniors, their availability, any additional services they may offer, and how they handle emergency situations. Here are examples of some questions for the home care provider.

Elderly woman and care assistant in Bradford and Leeds and finding the right home care provider for your loved one

Questions to ask a home care provider:

  • Do you check references before offering them work?
  • What qualifications and experience do the carers have?
  • How will you match the most suitable carers to my needs?
  • Does the agency have a high turnover of carers? A high staff turnover might suggest that staff aren’t happy with their employment.
  • Is it possible to meet potential carers in advance?  

5. Compare Costs

It is important to compare the costs of different home care providers to make sure you are getting the best value for your money. Work within your own budget, you might also be lucky and insurance might cover it. Check if there are any types of payment plan options that might be available to you.

There may be funding to finance your care needs so it is worth speaking with your Local Authority for an assessment on your financial situation. For more information please contact your local council and request a “care needs assessment”.

Cost of healthcare and finding the right home care provider for your loved one

These five factors are important to consider when narrowing down your choices and to make sure you choose the right home care provider that suits you. By taking the time to do your research, the search won’t be so daunting and your loved one will have the correct home care help they require in no time.

Contact Care 24-7 if you would like to know more about our services.

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