Home care or care home?

Many surveys show that people in Britain are living longer than previously expected. Whilst this is an excellent outcome, the surveys do raise some serious questions that need answering. The number of older people, aged eighty-five or older, has increased by a third over the last decade. Therefore, there is now an increase in demand for care services in this country. This demand can only be expected to grow. Oxfordshire’s population is an example of this. According to Oxfordshire’s Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) 2017 between 2015 and 2030, the number of people aged 65 and over is expected to increase by 53% and the number of people 85 and over is expected to increase by 92% in Oxfordshire.

The biggest question facing people who are finding it difficult coping on their own, or with a loved one, is “what are our choices?” Usually, the answer is either to stay at home with live in care or move to a residential care/nursing home.

Staying at home with help instead of moving to a care home is becoming a popular option. Both of these choices have advantages and disadvantages and it is up to the individual person and their family to decide which suits best for them at that particular time. The choice decided on can be reversible but when someone moves to a care home, usually they do not return home again unless the move is for respite reasons. All those involved should discuss the options together. Often when the care required is not too difficult or specialised, staying at home is the preferred choice.

It must be remembered that residential care homes caters for lower level care needs compared with nursing care homes. Residential care homes offer a range of support that usually includes personal care (such as washing, dressing, toileting and feeding), activities, the occasional trip out and companionship. Nursing homes give an extra level of care. Those opting for residential care usually have their own private bedroom and bathroom but will have a communal lounge and dining room. Meals will be made for them. At all times there will be staff on duty to help whenever necessary.

The option to stay at home offers most that a residential home would offer but without moving out of familiar surroundings. Family pets can continue to live at home. Friends and family will be able to visit as before. One difference is that home care will be arranged according to the level that is needed. The scope of the care provided can be quite broad – from having assistance to get up in the morning, meals cooked or errands carried out. The care needs required dictate what is done. Live in care can be arranged by contacting a care agency. There may be a company that a friend can recommend or the company’s ethos appeals. Home care providers are subject to regulation by the Care Quality Commission. The company may also be a member of the UK Home Care Association. An example of a regulated agency is Acquire Care Ltd. (telephone 01865 601010 or www.acquirecare.co.uk). Acquire Care is regulated by both CQC and Oxford City Council. The company is also a member of UKHCA, Oxfordshire Association of Care Providers (OACP), the Live-in Care Alliance and the Live-in Care Hub.

Do your research, find answers for your questions and then, enjoy your old age.