Normally, when the discussion of home help services arises in the news, it is related to parents who may no longer be able to care for themselves without help. However, there are other instances that a person needs home help care. Accidents at work and chronic illnesses are equally as common. If someone in your family/whanau is able to remain living at home but has need of special temporary or long-term needs, you may need to consider a professional carer.
image source: mentalhealthy.co.uk
No child wants to believe that his or her mum is no longer able to care for herself. After all, she raised her children, kept the home, and worked. Yet, you notice that she forgets to eat and her cabinets are sparse. She stays home most of the time alone. Before your mum falls and is injured, use these signals as the reason for you to take over and insist that she acquire home help services. At this phase, your mum may only need help doing dishes, laundry and having someone there to share a meal.
Your brother has had an accident and needs a carer to help with daily activities for a month or two. You offer to help him and he appreciates your help. You soon learn that his needs are on a schedule. Your work only permits you to be there in the evening. It’s time to call a community carer to take over while you work. Under these circumstances, your brother probably requires temporary assistance and going into residential care is not optional. His need for assistance is mainly on his ability to complete tasks and maintain a safe environment while he recovers. If he resists considering a home carer, explain that you worry about him while you are gone and would be able to do your work better knowing he was safe.
image source: assistedlivinginhomecare.com
You father has been diagnosed with cancer and is undergoing treatment. The doctors say that you can expect him to need care 24/7 for at least a year. The doctor explains that you will have to put your father into residential care or have home help care around the clock. You have read horror stories about the treatment in residential facilities and you cannot bear to think of your dad being subjected to neglectful situations. Chronic conditions and diseases often demand extensively trained carers that include knowing which reactions are normal and which may indicate a call to the doctor. Having a team that works with your father, his medical professionals and wants to help him maintain a quality lifestyle is what you expect from a home care provider.
These are all examples of the types of changes in health that require some type of extended care whether in a residential care facility, a hospital or in the home. There are community carers that will help your family/whanau with cooking, cleaning, shopping and socializing. Assuring that the service you choose provides certified, trained carers for the particular needs of your loved one is the first step.
