Signs your loved ones may need help at home
It is normal to feel concerned about your loved ones as they age.
Have you noticed that their home isn’t as tidy as it used to be? Are they struggling with everyday tasks?
Perhaps you’ve observed subtle changes in their memory, which is causing concern.
Your parents might be aware of these changes themselves but may not want to ask for help.
Many of us start considering help at home to ensure our loved ones can maintain their independence and safety at home for as long as possible.
There are signs that may indicate the need for help at home or a home care package for your family member.
Managing day-to-day tasks is challenges
One of the signs that your loved ones may need help at home is difficulty in managing day-to-day tasks.
Taking care of an entire house can be a big job particularly if it’s a large family home.
Tasks such as cleaning, grocery shopping, gardening, and maintenance work can become overwhelming, especially if they are living alone.
Another challenge your loved one may face is giving up driving, they may need assistance to attend appointments, shopping, and social outings.
Finding the right support adds confidence so they can continue living independently. Home care services not only relieve the stress of everyday tasks but provide more time for them to do more of what they love and spend quality time with family friends.
They may not need help at home but are feeling lonely
Your loved ones may not need help at home, but they could be feeling unsafe or isolated.
Loneliness doesn’t happen overnight and can impact their mood and mental health over time. You may notice a decline in social interactions with friends, or a loss of interest and participation in hobbies or social activities.
Loneliness may lead to various health issues, including dementia, depression, anxiety, and an increased risk of stroke and premature death. If don’t live close to your loved ones, or are time poor, you may not be able to spend as much time with them as you like.
Did you know your loved ones can access social support through the Commonwealth Home Support Program or Support at Home? With the right advice, they can engage in social experiences and connect with like-minded individuals.
They may enjoy being a part of a choir, or even joining an art group.
Or maybe they are keen to take up something new?
They may have started to trip or fall
As we age, the risk of falls increases due to a decline in balance caused by muscle strength and flexibility loss.
Falls are the leading cause of injury among older people. If your loved ones are experiencing difficulty moving around the house, especially in multi-level homes, modifications such as handrails or ramps may be necessary.
Occupational Therapists can complete a holistic assessment of their needs and living environment, and a podiatrists can ensure the correct footwear.
Home care services, including exercise physiology , massage, and nursing can be tailored to enhance strength and conditioning, reducing the risk of falls.
Additionally, technology and equipment can also be funded through a Support at Home can be implemented to prevent falls and ensure safe and independent living
3 tips to help your parents get ready for Support at Home
Now that you understand the benefits home care, you may want to do some research and preparation to get your parents the support they need.
With your loved one’s best interest at heart, you can help them find the right services and the right provider to support them to live well at home as they age.
Consider their needs and level of care
First, you should understand how much care your loved ones need.
For basic assistance like gardening or shopping, they may be eligible for Commonwealth Home Support, also known as CHSP.
If they have higher needs and complex health conditions, Support at Home offers more funding and access to an experienced Care Partner to customise and coordinate a care plan.
Choosing a reliable home care provider is important in getting the right support for your loved ones.
Understand the process
There are a few steps to access support either through the Commonwealth Home Support Program or Support at Home.
A My Aged Care assessment determines eligibility and the level of support required. This can take time, its’ advisable not to leave it too late.
If your loved one is approved for Support at Home, it can take months to get access to their funds.
If you’re new to Support at Home, here’s a complete guide for you to understand the process, costs and fees and how to coordinate support while you wait.
Have support along the way
While waiting for Support at Home, your family member may be eligible for support through the Commonwealth Home Support Program. Alternatively, fee-for-service options are available, where you can pay privately and receive services without the wait.
Navigating home care options can be confusing, but with the right support your loved ones can embrace life confidently.
If you’re looking for a trusted Support at Home provider, we are here to help.
ACH Group offers a comprehensive range of support and services, supporting customers to live a good life as they age.
Whether it’s services through the Commonwealth Home Support Program or Support at Home, be assured we’re here every step of the way.
Our Good Life Philosophy focusses on empowering customers to remain in control, delivering services ‘with people’ not ‘for them’
Contact us today to see how we can support your loved one with home care.
