Home Care or Care Home?
It’s a difficult decision. We always want our parents or loved ones to never grow old and to always stay in their own home, without any need for any support.
However age catches up, and many people immediately think that means going into a care home. Many do not know that having Carers come to their home (home care or domiciliary care) is a very practical middle - and long term step.
Both home care and care homes have their advantages and very much depend on the level of care needed, and the amount of all round activity and interaction the individual enjoys.
At Manaaki, we ALWAYS look at things with the individuals best interests at heart. We have looked after clients in their homes all their lives, looked after others until circumstances meant a care home was the better option, and even had a clients come out of care and respite homes back into their own homes. Life is not always a one-way street!
Is Staying at Home Always the Best Option?
It's a question that many families grapple with, often feeling a sense of guilt or uncertainty. There's no universal "best" answer, as the ideal choice depends entirely on your loved one's individual needs, preferences, and the specific circumstances of your family. Understanding the unique benefits of both home care and residential care is the first step towards making an informed decision.
The Benefits of Home Care with Manaaki: Embracing Familiarity and Independence
For many, the idea of remaining in their own home, surrounded by cherished memories and familiar comforts, is deeply appealing. We specialise in providing high-quality, person-centred home care services that offer a multitude of benefits:
Comfort and Familiarity: The most significant advantage of home care is the ability to stay in one's own home, in a familiar environment. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dementia or those who thrive on routine, reducing anxiety and disorientation. It’s also for those with low support needs - maybe some helping getting washed, dressed, and set up for the day, meal preparation, or help with taking medication.
One-to-One Personalised Care: With Manaaki, your loved one receives dedicated, individual attention from a small team of trained caregivers. Your care is entirely bespoke, tailored to your specific needs, preferences, and daily routines.
Maintaining Independence and Dignity: Home care empowers individuals to retain a greater sense of independence and control over their lives. They can continue to make choices about their daily activities, meal times, and social engagements within their own space.
Flexible and Responsive Support: Manaaki's home care services are highly flexible. Whether your loved one needs a few hours of support a week, daily visits, or overnight care, our services can adapt as needs change, offering continuity of care.
Family Involvement and Peace of Mind: Home care allows families to remain closely involved in their loved one's daily life and care decisions. Manaaki caregivers work collaboratively with families, providing regular updates and offering peace of mind that their loved one is safe and well cared for. Our “Family Portal” gives you 24/7 access to our online Care Management System, allowing you to see the care rota, what times the Carer attended for, who the Carer was, tasks completed, and general wellbeing notes.
Cost-Effectiveness for Certain Needs: For needs that don't require round-the-clock intensive medical supervision, the pay-as-you-go costs of home care are often be a more cost-effective solution compared to the more comprehensive fees of a residential care home.
Companionship and Social Interaction: Beyond practical support, Manaaki caregivers provide invaluable companionship, engaging in conversation, hobbies, and outings, helping to combat loneliness and social isolation.
The Benefits of Residential Care: Structured Support and Community Living
While we specialise in home care, there are times when a care home is the better option for individuals, particularly when needs become more complex or social interaction is a primary driver:
24/7 Professional Supervision: Residential care homes provide constant access to professional staff, which can be crucial for individuals with complex medical needs, high fall risks, or advanced dementia requiring continuous monitoring.
Structured Environment and Activities: Care homes often have a structured daily routine with organised activities, social events, and communal dining, fostering a sense of community and providing stimulation.
Specialised Facilities: Many residential homes, especially those specialising in dementia care, offer purpose-built environments designed for safety, accessibility, and cognitive support.
Reduced Family Burden: Moving into a care home can alleviate the direct care burden from families, allowing them to focus on quality time and emotional connection rather than daily tasks.
Ready Access to Healthcare Services: Care homes typically have established relationships with local GPs and other healthcare professionals, facilitating quicker access to medical attention when needed.
Making the Right Choice for Your Loved One
Choosing between home care and residential care is a deeply personal decision. Consider the following:
Your Loved One's Preferences: What are their wishes? Do they express a strong desire to stay at home?
Level of Need: How much support do they require? Is it predominantly personal care and companionship, or do they need complex medical interventions?
Safety and Environment: Is their home safe and adaptable to their evolving needs? Can a care home environment better mitigate risks?
Social Engagement: Does your loved one thrive on organised group activities, or do they prefer one-to-one interaction and quiet pursuits?
Financial Considerations: Understand the costs associated with both options and any available funding support.
While we certain circumstances mean individuals will benefit by staying at home with our dedicated care services, we also understand that home care isn't always the sole answer. We are here to have an open and honest conversation about your loved one's needs and help you explore whether home care solutions are the right fit. If residential care appears more suitable, we can still offer guidance on navigating that transition.
Contact Manaaki today for a no-obligation discussion about your loved one's care needs in Hertfordshire. We're here to help you make an informed decision that brings peace of mind and the best possible quality of life.
