With the cost of residential care homes reaching over £38,000 a year in parts of the UK, many people are turning to private home care as a viable alternative. But how do you know which type of care is best for your relative’s needs? It helps to be as informed as possible when making your decision, so here are some of the pros and cons of each option.
Residential Care Homes
If your elderly relative can no longer look after themselves at home, residential care may be the best option. Usually, their home will be sold to pay for care, and nursing care costs can range from £21,000 to over £40,000 depending on where in the UK you live. Residential care offers peace of mind for you – particularly for those who live some distance away from their relatives – you don’t need to worry about things like home security, relatives going out on their own, accidents in the home and so forth. Your loved ones will be looked after 24/7 in an environment which is safe and supportive. Unfortunately, the high cost of residential care means it is a struggle for many families to cope with payments. It can also be difficult to persuade an independent relative that a care home is the best place for them – going from living alone to being under the watchful eye of nurses and other residents 24/7 can be a horrendous experience for some people, who value their freedom and independence and would be more comfortable staying in their own home.
Private Home Care
Home nursing services in Abingdon can provide a range of care options for those who wish to stay in their own homes, from occasional support with tasks such as cooking and washing, to 24 hour live-in care. Of course, the costs of live-in care are comparable with those of a residential care home, but your relative gets to remain in familiar surroundings, which can make all the difference. For those who are particularly independent, having a qualified and experienced carer pop in for a couple of hours a week, perhaps to take them shopping or assist with cooking dinner, can make a real difference and enable them to maintain living by themselves. It’s important that any home nursing agency in Abingdon you use regularly assesses client’s needs, as these can change over time. Whilst your relative may only require a few hours support this year, next year they may need more care and assistance with a range of tasks.
How to Choose
Ultimately, the level of care your relative needs will determine which option is best for them, and medical professionals will be able to assist you with your decision. Financial factors are also a consideration, and of course the desires of the individual, if they have a preference. There are benefits to both residential care and home nursing in Abingdon, and it’s a case of deciding which best suits your situation.
