How to Identify When Someone Needs Professional Care
It can be extremely difficult to decide when professional care is necessary for a loved one. To help you, we have put together a guide that outlines some signs that it might be time to arrange professional care, whether at home or in a residential home.
They are unable to live independently
If an individual is struggling to live independently, they could benefit from professional care. This means they are unable to carry out day-to-day tasks without help, such as getting out of bed, washing, dressing, eating, taking medicines, going to the toilet and keeping their home clean.
A social care needs assessment may also suggest that professional or residential care is the best option for your loved one - often after a hospital stay or fall, for example.
It is unsafe for them to live alone
Professional care may be needed when your loved one poses safety concerns for themselves or others. For example, individuals with dementia can experience challenging behaviours such as aggression or agitation, waking in the night or getting lost.
In such cases, residential care may be the best option for both the individual and their loved ones. A care home or centre ensures they are always in a safe and secure environment, staffed 24 hours a day by specially trained, professional carers.
Care can no longer be provided by family and friends
If family and friends are no longer able to meet the needs of a loved one, it may be time for professional care. The individual may have experienced a deterioration in in their health or mobility, or have a complex medical condition that requires care and attention around the clock.
If family and friends are unable to provide the extensive support required for their loved one to live comfortably and safely – sometimes due to illnesses of their own – professional care might be needed. The individual’s home can also be unsuitable for their requirements, so residential care may be a better environment to meet their needs.
Professional care options
If you have decided that your loved one needs professional care, there are several options available.
Domiciliary Care
If residential care is not necessary yet, care at home can help retain independence for longer. Professional carers will visit as often as required, helping out with all aspects of daily living from washing and dressing to shopping, providing meals, keeping up with paperwork and tidying the garden to help individuals retain their independence.
Residential Care (Without Nursing)
Residential care provides a safe environment with specialist care on hand 24/7 and support for all day-to-day activities. This can be a short-term respite or long-term residential care.
Residential Care (With Nursing)
Residential care with 24-hour nursing to support those with complex medical needs. This can be a short-term respite or long-term residential care.
Contact us today to find out more about our professional care services and to discuss your requirements with a member of our team.
